Launch Your Aquatics Career 🎓

For ages 15-25 — get certified, get hired, build a career in the water

15+
Min Age
$17-22
Avg Hourly
Flexible
Hours
Meaningful
Work

Choose Your Path

🏅

Lifeguard Certification

Learn how to get Red Cross certified, requirements, costs, and how to land your first summer job.

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🏊

Become a Swim Instructor

Step-by-step guide to becoming a swim instructor, certification options, and salary expectations.

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🎯

Career Paths & Salaries

Explore lifeguard, instructor, coach, and director roles with salary ranges and advancement opportunities.

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🎓

Scholarships

Find scholarships for swimmers and aquatics professionals pursuing higher education.

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Before You Apply — Checklist

Salary & Compensation

🏖 Lifeguard
$17-19/hr
Seasonal or part-time
🏊 Swim Instructor
$18-22/hr
Part-time or full-time
🏅 Head Coach
$45-65K
Annual salary, full-time
🎓 Aquatics Director
$55-75K
Annual salary, full-time

Ready to find your first job?

Browse 2,400+ aquatics job openings nationwide.

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Common Questions

Most employers require lifeguards to be 15-16 years old, depending on state regulations and facility requirements. Check with your local pool or beach for specific age requirements.
Red Cross and YMCA lifeguard certification typically costs $150-350. Some employers offer to pay for certification, and many community centers offer discounted rates for teens.
Absolutely! Aquatics jobs demonstrate responsibility, safety awareness, leadership, and customer service skills that colleges value. Colleges appreciate work experience, especially in positions requiring certifications.
Yes! Many swim schools actively hire and train people without prior teaching experience. Strong swimming ability and a passion for helping others learn are often more important than experience.
Lifeguards monitor water safety and respond to emergencies. Swim instructors teach people how to swim and water safety skills. Both are rewarding roles, but they require different certifications and skills.