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About the Department

Are you ready to join the team that is “Building Community Through Fun?” Are you ready to make a difference?

The City of San José’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services (PRNS) is looking for people who want to make San José a better place to live and visit. Our mission is to connect people through parks, recreation, and neighborhood services for an active San José. ActivateSJ, PRNS’s strategic plan, envisions healthy communities that inspire belonging by following the guiding principles of stewardship, nature, equity & access, identity, and public life.
 
The Department creates and activates thriving public places, including over 40 community centers, 10 regional parks, over 200 neighborhood parks, Happy Hollow Park & Zoo, and over 65 miles of trail. We also offer diverse programming for all ages and abilities. We take a fun approach to public service, and value the public’s trust. Our team is collaborative, supportive, and innovative. We are a fast-paced organization that takes decisive action after thoughtful planning.

For more information, please visit sanjoseca.gov/prns.
 

Position and Duties

The Department of Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services is recruiting for Part-Time, Unbenefited Lifeguard and Instructor Lifeguard positions in the Recreation Services Division (RS) for the Citywide Aquatics programming.

The Lifeguard classification is covered by the Minimum Wage Police and pay starts at $18.45 hourly.
The Instructor Lifeguard classification is covered by the Pay Floor Rate and pay starts at $30.48 hourly.

These positions may be required to work variable shifts between the hours of 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Monday – Saturday during the dates of June 15-August 8. Additionally, a MANDATORY training for both Lifeguard and Instructor Lifeguard positions will take place starting the week of June 8, from 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. These positions are part-time, unbenefited with a limit of less than 20 hours per week or less than 1,040 hours per year. There is no guarantee of hours or longevity. All programs adhere to Santa Clara County, Public Health guidelines to ensure the health and well-being of staff. Face coverings and Personal Protective Equipment are provided. Staff may assist with daily health screenings, cleaning, and sanitization in City programs following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. 

Note: Candidates are not required to possess the Lifeguard Training certificate at the time of completing the application or to interview for the position. If selected for the position of Lifeguard, the Citywide Aquatics program will offer Lifeguard Training certification classes, if needed. If selected for the position of Instructor Lifeguard, the Citywide Aquatics program will be offering Lifeguard Training and American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor's (WSI) certification classes, if needed. The American Red Cross Lifeguard Training certification and the American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor certification age requirement are at least 15 years old.

If selected to move forward in the conditional offer process, the Lifeguard certification pre course swimming skills test that consists of the following:
•a 300-yard swim using front crawl or breaststroke.
•a 2-minute tread using legs only
•the ability to retrieve a 10-lb dive weight from 7 ft deep, to the surface and swim 20 yds with the weight, using legs only and exit the pool without using a ladder within 100 seconds. 

Lifeguard:
Lifeguards supervise the conduct of swimmers to maintain safety in the swimming pool. Lifeguards also enforce swimming pool rules and may participate in swim instruction programs; observe swimmers in swimming pools; provide warnings to those who violate the safety rules of the pool and expelling them, if necessary, because of willful disobedience of the rules; rescues swimmers who are in distress; and administers artificial respiration when necessary, according to the prescribed method. Lifeguards may also train and direct the work of lower-level workers as assigned and participate in pool maintenance. Possession of a current American Red Cross Lifeguard Training’s Authorization Certificate is REQUIRED for the position of Lifeguard. 

Instructor Lifeguard:
In addition to the duties identified for Lifeguards, Instructor Lifeguards also organize and conduct swimming instruction classes for beginners, intermediate, or advanced swimmers at a swimming pool. Duties will include teaching swimming to children, adult individuals, and groups. Instructor Lifeguards may officiate at competitive swim meets. Instructor Lifeguards must also be able to instruct in the techniques of swimming and lifesaving. Possession of a current American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor’s Authorization Certificate (WSI) is REQUIRED for the position of Instructor Lifeguard.  

Lifeguard and Instructor Lifeguards may be placed at any of the City pools. Currently, the City of San José is hiring for four pools at the following locations:
 
Camden Community Center: 3369 Union Ave., San José, CA 95124
Fair Swim Center: 1350 Bacchus Dr., San José, CA 95122
Mayfair Community Center: 2039 Kammerer Ave., San José, CA 95116
Rotary Ryland Pool: 421 North First St., San José, CA 95112

How to apply

To view the full announcement for this exciting opportunity with the City of San Jose and to apply online, please visit the City of San Jose’s careers page by clicking on the URL link below.

Please click on the Job PDF to view the announcement.

The City of Dixon is recruiting qualified Lifeguard/Swim Instructor I/II applicants for the 2026 Aquatic season.

Under the direction of the Recreation Supervisor and Senior Lifeguard/Swim Instructor, Lifeguard/Swim Instructor performs a variety of duties to ensure the City of Dixon swimming pool is a safe and enjoyable aquatic facility. Supervises pool patrons, enforces pool rules, performs first aid and emergency rescues, instructs swim lessons, performs cashiering duties, leads recreational activities; performs related and other work as required.

Staff may be expected to work weekends and on fixed holidays.  Those who work on a City Holiday will earn 1 1/2 times their base hourly salary.

This position is subject to random controlled substance testing and/or breath alcohol testing.

Employment Processing: Those selected are subject to pre-employment drug testing and fingerprinting. In accordance with Federal law, an employee must provide proof of identity and proof that they may legally work in the United States.

Veteran's Preference Points: Veteran's Preference Points will be applied in accordance with the City's Personnel Rules & Regulations. A copy of the DD214 form must be filed at the time of application.

The City of Dixon is an EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. 

Please do not reply to any emails coming from CalOpps at any time during this process as this correspondence does not come back to our agency.

The City of Lincoln is hiring up to 20 part-time Water Safety Instructors within the Recreation Department.  This position may require you to work various days, weekends or evenings.

Seasonal employees are limited to working no more than 999 hours in a fiscal year.

Under the direct or general supervision of the Recreation Coordinator, performs a variety of duties to supervise the pool, decks, and additional areas of an aquatic facility; and provides swimming instruction.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Include but are not limited to the following:

• Maintain constant surveillance as assigned to safeguard swimmers from drowning and other accidents.
• Maintain discipline and orderly conduct among patrons and enforce all pertinent City pool rules and regulations in order to maintain a safe environment. 
• Promote and enforce water safety procedures; effect swimming rescues; render first aid and CPR as required. 
• Assist in the planning, promoting and organizing of prescribed Red Cross programs and special events. 
• Perform pool facility maintenance functions as required. 
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other City employees, and the public using principles of good customer service. 
• Prepare and maintain accurate and up-to-date records and reports.
• Conduct classes at all participant levels (beginning through advanced) and supervise students and swim lesson aide (s).  
• Prepare daily lesson plans for assigned swim instruction classes.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS

Perform heavy manual labor; learn to operate a variety of equipment; work with tools related to recreational maintenance. The position requires sitting, standing, walking on level and slippery surfaces, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, stooping, squatting, crouching, grasping and making repetitive hand movement in the performance of daily duties. The incumbent needs to have the ability to hear and speak for purposes of communication. The position also requires both near and far vision when administering programs and operating equipment. The need to lift, carry and push equipment and supplies weighing 25 pounds or more is also required. The incumbent in this outdoor position works in all weather conditions, including wet, hot, and cold.

KNOWLEDGE/ABILITIES/SKILLS

The following are a representative sample of the KSA’s necessary to perform essential duties of the position.

Knowledge of: 

Principles and techniques of swimming instruction for various age groups; principles and practices of water safety and swimming rescue techniques; proper stroke mechanics; principles and techniques of CPR and first aid; practices and methods of public relations and customer service; and techniques and principles of effective interpersonal communication.

Skills to:

Receive direction and follow oral and written instructions; be reliable, dependable, creative, and enthusiastic; and develop effective working relationships with fellow city employees, children, and parents.

Ability to:

On a continuous basis, know and understand operations and observe safety rules; walk; swim with proficiency and endurance; render life saving measures; interpret policies and procedures, and explain operations and problem solve issues for the public and with staff; supervise groups of swimmers; intermittently set up equipment, move and carry supplies and equipment; lift or carry weight of 45 pounds or less; prevent accidents and conduct effective rescues; understand and translate City policies and practices into everyday working practices; make sound decisions and solid problem-solving methods; respond to emergency situations in a calm and effective manner; administer first aid and CPR; prepare reports, course records, and lesson plans; maintain accurate and up-to-date records; work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions; understand and carry out written and oral directions; communicate tactfully with customers; communicate effectively and concisely, both orally and in writing; promote and enforce safety procedures including proper use of equipment; and establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

THE SELECTION PROCESS

The process may include an in-basket exercise, individual interviews, panel interviews and/or other related components.  Only those candidates who have the best combination of qualifications in relation to the requirements and duties of the position will continue in the selection process. Meeting the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an invitation to the process. The candidate selected for the position will be required to complete a background check including reference checks, fingerprint check, medical/drug-test evaluation and/or other related components.

Human Resources will make reasonable efforts in the examination process to accommodate persons with disabilities.  Please advise HR of any special needs a minimum of five days in advance of the selection process exam by calling (916) 434-3229. The City of Lincoln is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The information contained herein is subject to change and does not constitute either an expressed or implied contract.

Do you enjoy giving back to your community? Do you like helping people? If so, then we invite you to explore this opportunity with the City of Pacifica.

The Parks, Beaches and Recreation Department within the City of Pacifica works closely with the community providing programming to youth, seniors and all citizens.  We strive to foster a collaborative and collegial atmosphere among staff while providing high quality programs, activities and events to the community and neighborhoods. We take pride in offering excellent community service while remaining adaptable and responsive to our residents' needs and expectations.

Currently, the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Department has an exciting opportunity for customer service orientated individuals to join our team as a Lifeguard within our Aquatics Division.

If interested, apply today!

This is a part-time, at-will, non-benefited position. Hours are limited to less than 1,000 hours per year.

$20.06-$21.89/hour

$21.05-$25.15/hour with WSI

Open until filled

The City of San Mateo Parks and Recreation Department is looking responsible, enthusiastic, and team-oriented individuals to join our Aquatics Team!

Qualifications:

Applicants must be at least 15 years old and able to obtain a work permit if under the age of 18. Candidates must complete and pass the American Red Cross Lifeguard Training course, including Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) certification, by June 1, 2026. While not required, Water Safety Instruction (WSI) certification is highly desirable.

Lifeguard Job Responsibilities:

• Ensure Patron Safety: The primary responsibility of a lifeguard is to protect lives by preventing injuries and accidents. This includes remaining alert and vigilant, actively monitoring the pool and surrounding areas, recognizing hazards early, and responding quickly and effectively to emergencies—including water rescues, CPR, and first aid.
• Enforce Rules Consistently: Lifeguards help patrons stay safe by enforcing facility rules fairly and consistently. This involves monitoring behavior, addressing unsafe actions, and educating patrons about safe practices.
• Maintain a Clean and Safe Facility: Lifeguards assist with daily maintenance and cleanliness of the facility. Tasks may include checking and recording chemical levels, organizing and inspecting equipment (including rescue buoy, Shepard's hook, First Aid pack, etc...), picking up trash and debris, and reporting or addressing unsafe facility conditions.
• Availability: Ability to work a minimum 25 hours a week from June 15th – August 9th, including some weekends. Pre-planned and approved vacation requests may be accommodated.

Swim Instructor Job Responsibilities:

• Provide Instruction Across Levels: Teach swim lesson participants across a range of skill levels, following established curriculum and safety standards.
• Ensure Participant Safety: Maintain constant awareness and create a safe learning environment for all participants within your class.
• Maintain Professional Class Operations: Arrive prepared and work all scheduled hours, begin and end classes on time, stay afterward to answer participant or parent questions, and ensure all equipment and supplies are properly cleaned.
• Assess and Support Student Progress: Instruct, observe, and evaluate students’ skills and progress throughout the session, providing clear feedback and guidance.
• Complete Required Documentation: Accurately complete and submit report cards, skills sheets, attendance records, and any other required documentation on time.

Schedule:

                Interviews:                            Between March and May 2026

                In-Service Training:              June 8th – 12th (Mandatory Attendance)

                Summer Session:                 June 15th – August 9th

                Weekly In-Service:               Every Other Friday 9:30am-12:30pm

                Programming Daily Hours: (scheduled shifts may vary)

                                M-F         9:45am-7:00pm

                                Sat           9:45am-5:15pm

                                SU           12:45pm-5:15pm

Are You Interested? Apply!

Applications can be found on our website at www.cityofsanmateo.org, on-line at www.calopps.org or at City facilities to e-mail to Mburwell@cityofsanmateo.org If you have any questions, contact Community Services Supervisor, Michelle Burwell via email or 650.522.7475.

Fine Print Prior to hire, candidates will be required to successfully complete all pre-employment requirements, including  reference checks, a Department of Justice (DOJ) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Live Scan fingerprint background check, and Tuberculosis (TB) clearance. The policy of the City of San Mateo is to grant equal employment opportunity to all qualified persons without regard to race, color, sex, age, religion, ancestry, physical or mental disability, sexual preference, marital status, or national origin.  It is the intent and desire of the City of San Mateo that equal employment opportunity will be provided in recruiting, hiring, training, promoting, wages, benefits, and all other privileges, terms and conditions of employment.  In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, applicants requiring accommodations for any part of the testing or recruitment process must notify wleopoldino@cityofsanmateo.org or (650) 522-7265 seven (7) days in advance of the deadline for the part of the process requiring accommodations.  Do not upload any documents related to your request for accommodation in CalOpps.  The City of San Mateo complies with employment provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The City of Patterson is currently recruiting to one (1) part-time position for Pool Manager with the Recreation & Community Services Department for their Summer program and to establish an Eligibility List. Under the supervision of the Recreation and Community Services Director and the Recreation Coordinator, the Pool Manager will be responsible for the operations of the pool. The Pool Manager will be expected to schedule Lifeguards to work as well as oversee the Lifeguards. The Pool Managers are to teach Lifeguards the pool policies and to assist any Lifeguard in decisions made at the pool. The Pool Manager must also be able to resolve confrontations from citizens if not to direct them to the next person in the chain of command. Performs other duties as assigned.

This position is established for 28 hours a week, but will vary depending on programming needs, and will be working weekdays, evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Please click on the Job PDF to view the announcement.

Please click on the Job PDF to view the announcement.

The City of Belmont is seeking a Senior Lifeguard/Pool Manager to supervise the Summer Aquatics Program at the Carlmont Aquatics Facility located at 1400 Alameda de las Pulgas, Belmont, CA 94002

Salary (depending on experience) and Hours:

Monday – Friday Shifts - NO WEEKENDS!

Pay range depending on experience $23.97 - $29.14

Typical shift is from 9:15AM-5:15PM Monday-Thursday and Friday 9:15AM-3:30PM.

• Must have at least one summer of supervisory experience.

• Water Safety Instructor (WSI) certification preferred.

• Must be available for paid training Wednesday, June 17 – Friday, June 19, 2026.

• Must be available for the summer aquatics season June 22 – July 31, 2026

• Pool closed Friday, July 3, 2026 for the Holiday.

Lifeguard Certification

Must hold or obtain ARC Lifeguard Training, CPR/AED and First Aid Certificates by June 1st, 2026. With proof of payment, the City will reimburse you for the cost of the lifeguard certification training at the end of the aquatics season if certification is obtained between August 2025 and June 2026.

*For more information about obtaining Lifeguard certification please visit:

https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/lifeguarding

https://www.bappoa.org/trainings

https://www.happyswimmers.com/red-cross-lifeguard-training

What You Will Do

• Supervise and ensure patron safety at all times, including clearly and professionally conveying rules to patrons and enforcing facility regulations.

• Administer first aid and provide emergency care as required.

• Work outdoors in varying weather conditions and with exposure to pool chemicals.

• Maintain a safe aquatic environment.

• Greet the public and respond to questions and inquiries.

• Assist the Swim Lesson program.

• Maintain a professional appearance and demeanor by wearing appropriate uniform or attire for the position and exhibiting respect and enthusiasm.

• Facilitate program activities according to a prepared curriculum for Camps and Swim Lessons.

• Provide feedback regarding the City's aquatic program and activity schedules to the participants or supervisors.

• Conduct proper opening and closing procedures of the aquatic facility.

• Assist in staff trainings and meetings.

• Analyze program needs and recommend new and innovative program ideas.

• Set up proper furniture arrangements, equipment, and facility maintenance.

• Work as a Lead with Lifeguards and Swim Instructors and offer assistance in maintaining the proper execution of all aspects of facility programs, including feedback.

• Ensure all policies of the City of Belmont are followed during all programs, special events and facility use.

• Provide excellent customer service and problem solving.

• Perform functions of registration software applications.

• Prepare daily deposits and reconcile daily reports.

• Ensure all revenues received at assigned site are properly entered and accounted for.