About the Department

The City of Kenosha is accepting applications for Lifeguards to work at the City's two public pools (located at Washington Park and Anderson Park) Approximately 48 hours per week, Tuesday through Sunday, including evenings and weekends, contingent on weather and operational needs. Assignments may occur at either Washington Park or Anderson Park pool location as required. The pool season runs from mid-June through mid-August, with operating hours from 10:00 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.

The Parks Department will be offering Red Cross Lifeguard Certification courses to approved applicants. Applicants should be prepared to complete 7 hours of online course work prior to the course dates above. Please contact the Parks Department at 262-653-4080 for more information.

Please note that City employees (including seasonal employees) may only be employed in one department/division at any one given time. This employment is strictly temporary ("at will") which may be terminated at any time and does not lead to permanent full-time employment.

Position Duties

Under the direction of the Pool Supervisor, and/or designee, the lifeguard is responsible for monitoring aquatic activities to ensure the safety of patrons and staff.
Essential Duties:

Maintain pool facilities and locker rooms
Monitor and supervise swimming and aquatic activities
Enforce established swimming rules and safety regulations
Respond to emergencies in and out of the water in accordance with training and procedures
Perform emergency rescue and safety procedures as required
Communicate with the public in a professional and courteous manner
Inspect and ensure pool and safety equipment is maintained in proper working condition
Maintain cleanliness of pool facilities and surrounding areas
Maintain regular and reliable attendance
Attend mandatory lifeguard in-service training sessions
Follow all policies, procedures, and operational guidelines established by the Department.
Perform attendant or other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

Must be at least 16 years of age by June 1, 2026
Must successfully pass a post-offer drug screening; applicants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian for consent
Applicants 18 years or older must successfully pass a criminal background check
Must possess a valid American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification and/or Ellis, including First Aid and CPR, by June 1, 2026 to qualify for employment
Lifeguards are required to provide their own dark blue or red swimwear

Knowledge, Abilities & Skills:

General knowledge of pool facilities and operations
Strong customer service skills
Ability to respond to emergency situations in a calm, efficient and responsible manner
Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
Effective communication skills and ability to exercise sound judgment, courtesy, and tact
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Ability to maintain positive working relationships with supervisors, employees, and the public
Ability to work the required schedule and hours

Required Physical Skills and Abilities:

Must be able to jump into water from the side, totally submerge, recover to surface, and swim 150 yards
Must be able to maintain at surface of water for 2 minutes then swim 50 yards
Must be able to dive to a depth of 7-12 feet, retrieve a 10-pound object, return to the surface, swim 20 yards on the back while holding the object, and exit the pool without using a ladder or steps

Physical Requirements:

Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
Ability to sit for prolonged periods as needed.
Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.

Sensory Requirements:

Ability to see clearly to monitor pool areas, read instructions, and observe safety conditions
Ability to hear and respond to verbal instructions, alarms, and public inquiries
Ability to use touch and perform CPR, basic first aid, handle equipment and perform maintenance tasks
Ability to perceive environmental conditions, including weather, water quality, and safety hazards, and respond appropriately

Other Qualifications

Applicants interested in becoming a lifeguard must obtain certification from the American Red Cross and/or Ellis with First Aid/CPR Certification in order to qualify for employment. Previous employees are not guaranteed rehire and are required to complete an online application for consideration. The City will analyze the applicant's education, training and experience. Written, oral and/or proficiency exams may be required to establish eligibility. The City of Kenosha reserves the right to further evaluate only those applicants who best meet the needs of the City.