Lifeguard in USA
Pool Lifeguard - The Best Summer Job for the Work and Travel USA Program
Who is a lifeguard and what are their main duties?
Lifeguard is a person responsible for ensuring safety at pools, beaches, and other recreational areas. Their primary task is to supervise swimmers, respond quickly to emergencies, and provide first aid. Lifeguard not only monitors safety but also prevents accidents, checks water quality, maintains order at the facility, and assists with managing rescue equipment.
Our partner, High Sierra Pools, offers a lifeguard training before traveling to the USA, where everyone receives the necessary knowledge about the job, first aid, and emergency response. During meetings held in Poland, participants get to meet other students who are also participating in the W&T program, ensuring faster and easier adaptation in the USA.
Why is it worth to choose a lifeguard position?
Working as a lifeguard at pools in the USA offers not only attractive salary but also a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in American culture. This job allows for daily, consistent interaction with the community residents, who often share valuable tips about local attractions and offer support, maintaining connections even after the "work" part of the Work&Travel program ends.
Why is it worth to choose a lifeguard position?
Working as a lifeguard at pools in the USA offers not only attractive salary but also a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in American culture. This job allows for daily, consistent interaction with the community residents, who often share valuable tips about local attractions and offer support, maintaining connections even after the "work" part of the Work&Travel program ends.
What are the benefits of being a lifeguard?
- Good payrate – Lifeguard wages range from $15 to $25 per hour, depending on the location.
- Improvement of English language skills – Regular interaction with American residents significantly improves English proficiency, which is crucial for future professional and personal growth.
- Fresh air and outdoor work – This is a job for those who value physical activity and being close to nature.
- Opportunity to meet new people – Working and living in an international environment provides the chance to make friends from around the world.
- Free time – Lifeguards have a stable schedule, allowing time for sightseeing and enjoying the charms of the United States.
- Self-confidence – Spending the summer in the USA in a responsible position will help you develop self-confidence and belief in your abilities, making it easier to make tough decisions in the future.
Requirements for Lifeguards in the Work and Travel Program
- Minimum swimming ability – Swim 100m (to work at shallow pools) or 250m, tread water without using hands for 2 minutes, and retrieve a weight from a depth of 2.5-3m (to work at deep pools).
- Good English proficiency – This ensures effective communication and quick response in emergency situations.
- Completion of a certified lifeguard course (American Red Cross) – Pass both the swimming test and a written knowledge test.
- Participation in training sessions organized by Easy Travel Abroad – They prepare participants for lifeguard work in the USA.
This is what your summer in the USA will look like
High Sierra Pools inc.
High Sierra Pools has been operating in the market for over 25 years. Since 1992, the company has been focusing on increasing pool safety, creating positive customer experiences, and maintaining the highest standards of professionalism in the industry.
High Sierra Pools serves over 1,000 commercial pools in Washington, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Massachusetts.
THIS IS HOW YOUR WORKPLACE WILL LOOK LIKE
THIS IS HOW YOUR WORKPLACE WILL LOOK LIKE
Pay Rates
If you work 40 hours per week, each additional hour will be paid as overtime.
Virginia North (close to DC)
$15.50 per hour
(overtime $23.25 per hour), employer provides 48-56 hours per week, accommodation cost $180 per week
Virginia South (close to Virginia Beach)
$15.50 per hour
(overtime $23.25 per hour), employer provides 50-56 hours per week, accommodation cost $165 per week
Washington DC
$18.00 per hour
(overtime at $27.00 per hour), employer provides 44-48 hours per week, accommodation cost $185 per week
Maryland
$16.00 per hour
(overtime $24.00 per hour), employer provides 48-56 hours per week, accommodation cost $180 per week
Montgomery County (Maryland close to DC)
$17.50 per hour
(overtime at $17.50 per hour), employer provides 48-56 hours per week, accommodation cost $195 per week
Massachusetts
$17.00 per hour
(overtime at $25.50 per hour), employer provides 48-56 hours per week, accommodation cost $195 per week
Swimming Instructor
Are you an experienced swimmer? For those who has swimming experience, we offer an additional opportunity to work as a swimming instructor-lifeguard. The role involves teaching children how to swim, both in groups and during individual lessons. In your free time outside of classes, there will be the possibility of taking on lifeguard duties at the pool.
The pay rates start from $18/hour and are determined individually, based on experience and qualifications. More details can be obtained during an interview with the recruiter.
Why should you choose this offer?
- Highest pay rate on marketAnd overtime guarantee right upon contract signing;
- Choice of city/state work based on your preferenceStates: Virginia, Massachusetts, Maryland, Virginia Beach, Washington D.C.;
- Option to travel with your friends for shared accommodationWe provide housing for you and your friends;
- No superior swimming skills requiredPools are selected based on individual preferences;
- We offer lifeguard training in poland, where we teach you everything you needWe provide comprehensive training, and our students pass the test on their first attempt;
- We care for your safety in the united statesWe understand how challenging it can be to find your way in an unfamiliar place after a long flight. That’s why we’ll take care of you right after your arrival;
- Furnished accommodation with free wifi providedNo need to bring your own pans or pots, and you won’t have to worry about utility bills or rent;
- We organize entertainment on your days offTrips to Ocean City🏖, Six Flags🎢, Whale Watch 🐳, Baseball Games⚾️, Olympic Games🏊🏻♀️🥇, Soccer Tournaments⚽️, and more.
Listen to what students of the program say about us 🙂
Difference Between a Pool Lifeguard and a Beach Lifeguard
A pool lifeguard is responsible for ensuring safety in a more controlled environment where conditions are more predictable. Pools generally have fewer people, allowing for a more individualized approach to each situation and constant interaction with visitors. On the other hand, a beach lifeguard deals with more dynamic conditions. Their work includes responding to rip currents, changing weather conditions, and ensuring safety over a larger area. This type of work requires greater physical endurance and the ability to perform under pressure.
Difference Between a Pool Lifeguard and an Waterpark Lifeguard
Together, we will make your american dreams come true and provide you with the best summer of your life!
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
To work as a lifeguard, you must have at least basic swimming skills and a conversational level of English.
Lifeguards in the USA are respected and appreciated. They have stable work hours, good wages, and the opportunity to grow professionally in an international environment.
You will need: a valid passport, proof of being a student, and a stamped student ID.
Lifeguard hours are usually stable, ranging from 48 to 60 hours per week, depending on the location. Schedules are sent on Fridays for the week starting Monday through Sunday. Requests for days off can be submitted online by Tuesday before the next schedule.
Working hours depend on the assigned pool: shifts usually start between 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM and last until 8:00 PM. Lifeguards have 1-2 days off per week. The average number of hours worked is 45-60 hours per week, depending on the state you work in.
The salary for lifeguards in the USA ranges between $10 and $25 per hour, depending on the state and facility. High Sierra Pools offers the best pay rates on the East Coast.
The lifeguard season typically lasts from May (Memorial Day) to September (Labor Day), but it may vary depending on the region and weather conditions. In 2025, the season will run from May 24 to September 1. The latest start date is June 30.
The program costs will definitely be covered, and you will earn enough for the 30-day “travel” part of the program. Remember, the sooner you arrive in the USA, the more dollars you will earn. 🙂 You can estimate your earnings on our website under the “job offers” section, where you will find a convenient calculator that includes accommodation costs and taxes.
Yes, you can apply for a state and federal tax refund in January of the following year. Our partners help maximize your return.
A valid first aid certificate is required, which you will obtain under our guidance in Poland.
Lifeguards have access to rescue equipment, training, and support from facility managers, as well as contact with local emergency services. Easy Travel Abroad also supports its students 7 days a week, so you can be sure you’ll never be alone.
All insurance complies with U.S. State Department requirements. During work, you will be covered by employer-provided insurance. For personal time, the sponsor’s DS-2019 insurance will apply. Before departure, it’s important to review the sponsor’s insurance coverage, which includes baggage loss, liability, etc.
After completing the lifeguard course in Poland, you will have solid knowledge, which you will refresh and reinforce during regular in-service training and safety inspections. In emergency situations, you are responsible for your actions, but legal aspects are managed at the employer’s level and their insurance provider.
The course costs $250 if you swim 100 meters. If you pass all tests (swimming, weight retrieval, and treading water), the price is $150 because High Sierra Pools offers an additional $100 discount as a motivation for strong swimmers.
To work as a lifeguard under the Work and Travel program, you need a J-1 visa. Easy Travel Abroad assists with obtaining the visa, from completing the application to group embassy visits.
Pickup instructions will be emailed to you by the employer before your arrival. The details will include photos showing where to wait for the driver and the driver’s contact number.
You can live with two of your friends who travel with you, while other roommates will come from different countries. Apartments are rented by the employer, located in safe areas, new, and situated within local neighborhoods. These are usually 2-3 bedroom apartments housing 5-7 people (2-3 people per room). All essential items, such as cutlery, pots, glasses, etc., are provided.
Yes, the Work and Travel program allows you to meet many people from around the world. Participants often make friends during lifeguard training in Poland and organize trips together after work (grace period).