Writing a strong lifeguard resume can be a challenge, especially for those entering the job market or looking to stand out.
With the right guidance and clear examples, job seekers can quickly improve their chances of landing interviews.
This guide presents 15 lifeguard resume examples for 2025, aimed at helping applicants craft resumes that show off their skills, certifications, and experience.
Readers will find practical tips and ready-to-use templates that make building an effective resume much easier.
1) Include contact information clearly at the top
Contact information should always be placed at the top of a lifeguard resume.
This helps hiring managers reach out quickly and easily.
Include your full name, phone number, current email address, and your city and state.
Make sure your contact details are current and professional.
A clutter-free layout at the top of your resume looks organized and makes a strong first impression.
For those looking to build your resume with RoboApply, starting with clear contact info sets the tone for the rest of the document.
Lifeguard Resume Example—Contact Information Section
Jackson Taylor
Los Angeles, CA 90016
Phone: (310) 555-8472
Email: jackson.taylor@email.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jacksontaylor
Motivated and reliable lifeguard with 2+ years of experience in high-traffic aquatic facilities.
Current CPR/AED and First Aid certified.
Skilled at monitoring swimmer safety, responding to emergencies, and supporting water safety programs.
Eager to join the Santa Monica Community Pool team to help maintain a safe environment for all guests.
Core Skills:
- CPR, AED & First Aid Certification
- Emergency Response
- Water Surveillance
- Pool Rules Enforcement
- Customer Service
- Team Collaboration
Experience:
Lifeguard
Venice Beach Community Center, Los Angeles, CA
June 2023 – May 2025
- Monitored up to 80 swimmers at peak times, ensuring compliance with all safety protocols.
- Responded to 6 water emergencies in 2 years, delivering effective rescue and first aid as required.
- Educated pool guests about swim safety rules and provided friendly guidance to families and children.
- Worked closely with other staff to maintain water quality and facility cleanliness.
Education:
Los Angeles High School, Los Angeles, CA
Graduated: 2023
Certifications:
American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification (valid through 2026)
CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers (valid through 2025)
References available upon request.
2) Write a concise professional summary
A professional summary is the first statement on a resume and should quickly tell employers who the candidate is, what experience or certifications they bring, and what makes them a strong lifeguard.
This summary must be short—usually 2 to 4 sentences—and focused on the most important skills and certifications, such as CPR training, emergency response, and knowledge of water safety protocols.
A strong summary helps the resume stand out right away by highlighting both experience and professionalism.
For those who want help customizing their summary or resume, they can use tools like RoboApply to optimize your resume with AI-powered suggestions.
Example of a full-length professional summary for a lifeguard resume:
Motivated and certified lifeguard with 2+ years of experience in pool and beach environments.
Skilled in emergency response, CPR, and first aid, with a strong commitment to ensuring the safety of all guests.
Adept at monitoring large groups and handling stressful situations calmly and efficiently.
Dedicated to maintaining a clean facility, enforcing safety rules, and providing excellent customer service at all times.
Eager to bring proven skills and a safety-first attitude to a dynamic team, ensuring a secure and enjoyable environment for all visitors.
3) List lifeguard certifications like CPR and First Aid
Employers want to see proof of key certifications on a lifeguard resume, especially CPR, First Aid, and lifeguard training.
Listing these right at the top makes it clear you are qualified and can handle emergencies.
It’s best to include the full name of each certification, the certifying body, and the current status (active or expired).
Adding the expiration date, if relevant, can also help.
For extra detail, mention additional skills like Automated External Defibrillator (AED) or any special water rescue training.
This section should be clear, direct, and easy for recruiters to spot.
For resume guidance that increases your chances of standing out, you can learn more about how to optimize your resume with RoboApply.
Below is a ready-to-use example of a lifeguard resume that highlights relevant certifications and safety training:
Michael Clark
Houston, TX | (555) 254-5678 | michael.clark@email.com
Professional Summary
Responsible and attentive lifeguard with 2+ years of experience monitoring indoor and outdoor pools.
Skilled in preventing accidents, performing rescues, and providing emergency aid.
Dedicated to maintaining safety protocols and fostering a secure environment for patrons of all ages.
Certifications
- American Red Cross Lifeguarding Certification (Expires: June 2026)
- CPR for the Professional Rescuer (Expires: June 2026)
- First Aid Certification, American Red Cross (Expires: June 2026)
- AED Certified, American Red Cross
- Oxygen Administration, YMCA (Active)
Skills
- Emergency response and rescue techniques
- Pool rules enforcement
- Customer and patron service
- Quick and clear communication
- Team leadership and training support
- Cleaning and pool chemical management
Work Experience
Lifeguard, City Recreation Center, Houston, TX
June 2023 – Present
- Monitored pool activities to ensure guest safety and acted immediately in cases of distress
- Provided first aid and administered CPR during two real-life emergencies
- Trained three new lifeguards in pool safety and emergency response procedures
- Checked chemical levels and cleaned facilities daily
- Led water safety classes for children and adults
Education
High School Diploma, Houston High School, 2022
References available upon request.
4) Highlight emergency response experience
Lifeguards must show strong emergency response skills on their resumes.
Employers look for clear examples of quick action, calm decision-making, and the ability to follow rescue protocols.
Make sure to feature any real-life rescue situations, relevant certifications, and teamwork during emergencies.
Use specific details and numbers to add impact.
This approach demonstrates real experience and builds trust with hiring managers.
For more ideas on what to highlight, see lifeguard resume examples at Enhancv.
Example resume section: Emergency Response Experience
John Smith
123 Lakeview Drive
Clearwater, FL 33755
Phone: (555) 123-4567
Email: jsmith@email.com
Objective
Certified lifeguard with 3 years of experience ensuring public safety at busy pools and beaches.
Skilled in emergency response and accident prevention.
Professional Experience
Head Lifeguard
Sunset Community Pool, Clearwater, FL
May 2022 – May 2025
- Responded to over 15 emergency situations, including water rescues, medical emergencies, and CPR incidents, with a 100% positive outcome rate.
- Administered first aid and oxygen to individuals in need, collaborating with EMTs and local fire departments.
- Led team practice drills each week to improve emergency readiness and communication.
- Enforced all safety rules and trained five new lifeguards on rescue and emergency protocols.
- Maintained detailed incident records and communicated follow-ups to management.
Certifications
- Red Cross Lifeguard/CPR/AED, valid through 2026
- First Aid & Oxygen Administration
Skills
- Emergency response and rescue skills
- Clear communication under pressure
- Team leadership
- Incident documentation
Education
Clearwater High School, Diploma, 2022
References available upon request.
5) Detail water safety and rescue skills
When listing water safety and rescue skills on a lifeguard resume, it helps employers quickly see that the applicant is fully trained and ready for emergency situations.
It is important to mention certifications, technical water rescue techniques, and proven skills such as scanning, crowd management, and quick response.
Focus on accurate, clear language that matches the job requirements for aquatic environments.
For example, highlighting swim proficiency, familiarity with emergency protocols, and the ability to keep guests safe shows strong qualifications for a lifeguard role.
Resume Example – Water Safety and Rescue Skills Section
John Lee
555 Ocean Drive, Miami, FL 33139
Phone: (305) 555-6789
Email: john.lee@email.com
Objective
Motivated and certified lifeguard with 3 years of pool and beach experience.
Skilled in water safety, emergency response, and lifesaving procedures.
Eager to join Coral Beach Resort to use training and protect visitors.
Certifications
American Red Cross Lifeguarding and CPR
First Aid and AED Certification
Key Skills
- Water rescue techniques (active and passive victim rescue, spinal injury management)
- Hazard recognition and rapid response
- Vigilant monitoring of large aquatic areas
- Emergency first aid and resuscitation
- Crowd control and swimmer education
Experience
Coral Cove Public Pool, Miami, FL
Lifeguard, May 2022–May 2024
- Performed daily water safety checks and enforced pool rules, resulting in zero major incidents.
- Completed five real-life rescues, using quick response and proper rescue skills.
- Delivered first aid to injured swimmers, stabilizing victims until help arrived.
- Conducted water safety talks and demonstrations for guests.
Seaside Park Beach, Miami, FL
Assistant Lifeguard, June 2021–April 2022
- Monitored crowded beachfront areas and identified potential risks.
- Assisted in rescues during riptide incidents and administered CPR when needed.
- Trained in team-based rescue drills and coordinated with emergency responders.
References available upon request.
6) Mention previous lifeguard job titles and employers
Adding previous job titles and employers to a lifeguard resume gives employers a clear picture of the candidate’s experience level and work history. It helps show reliability and provides proof that the applicant has worked in similar settings before.
Listing job titles and organizations also helps hiring managers verify experience and contact past employers if needed.
Below is a full-length, ready-to-use resume example that highlights past lifeguard positions and their employers.
John Smith
123 Beachside Avenue
Jacksonville, FL 32250
Phone: (555) 987-6543
Email: johnsmith@email.com
Professional Summary
Energetic lifeguard with over three years of experience helping keep pools and beaches safe. Skilled in water rescue, first aid, and emergency response.
Works well with large teams and communicates clearly under pressure.
Certifications
- American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification (Current)
- CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers (Current)
Work Experience
Lifeguard — Ocean View Community Pool
Jacksonville, FL
May 2023 – Present
- Monitored a 50-meter competition pool used by adults and children each day
- Performed 8 rescues using proper technique on swimmers experiencing distress
- Provided basic first aid and completed incident reports for all emergencies
- Taught swim safety rules and enforced pool regulations to prevent accidents
Lifeguard — Atlantic Beach Municipal Beach
Atlantic Beach, FL
June 2021 – April 2023
- Supervised up to 80 guests on busy weekends, focusing on swimmer safety
- Responded to emergency situations, performed CPR, and used an AED
- Coordinated with local police and medical teams during critical incidents
- Maintained rescue equipment and reported hazards to management
Education
Jacksonville High School, Jacksonville, FL
Graduated: May 2021
Skills
- First aid and CPR
- Emergency response
- Public communication
- Teamwork
- Conflict resolution
References
Available upon request.
7) Quantify experience with duration and responsibilities
Job seekers should always include specific details about how long they worked and what tasks they handled. Stating the number of years or seasons in a job, as well as clear descriptions of daily duties, makes a resume stronger.
Quantifying experience shows employers reliability and depth of skill. Listing responsibilities with numbers or measurable results—like “monitored pool area for 3 summers” or “instructed 20+ children in water safety each week”—gives a precise picture of what was achieved.
Add these numbers and details under each job entry for best results.
Example template:
Jason Carter
123 Blue Lake Drive
Clearwater, FL 33760
jason.carter@email.com
(555) 234-5678
Objective
Enthusiastic and dependable lifeguard with 4 years of experience maintaining pool safety at busy public aquatic centers. Skilled in first aid, CPR, and water rescue.
Committed to promoting safety and a positive environment for all visitors.
Experience
Lifeguard
Clearwater Municipal Pool, Clearwater, FL
May 2021 – August 2024
- Supervised a pool averaging over 120 swimmers daily for 3 consecutive summer seasons.
- Performed hourly safety checks and maintained pool cleanliness.
- Responded to 7 emergency situations with rapid first-aid and rescue skills resulting in zero major incidents.
- Delivered water safety instruction to groups of 15-30 individuals twice per week.
- Conducted daily chemical checks and recorded data.
Head Lifeguard
Clearview Recreation Center, Clearwater, FL
September 2024 – May 2025
- Led a team of 5 lifeguards, creating weekly schedules and assisting with on-the-job training.
- Oversaw pool operations during peak times, serving up to 160 swimmers per shift.
- Communicated safety rules and ensured compliance with all facility guidelines.
- Used checklists to inspect safety equipment each opening and closing.
Certifications
- American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification (current)
- CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer
Skills
- Fast response to emergencies
- Water safety instruction
- Excellent communication
- Strong leadership abilities
Education
Clearwater High School — Diploma, 2021
References available upon request
8) Showcase ability to work in team environments
Employers want to know if lifeguards can work well with others to keep guests and coworkers safe. Highlighting teamwork on a resume helps show strong communication and cooperation skills.
Including clear examples of coordination with colleagues, supervisors, or emergency personnel makes a resume stand out. Focus on tasks such as group surveillance, split shifts, or assisting during rescues.
Lifeguard Resume Example: Teamwork Focus
Name: Ashley Rivera
Phone: (555) 123-4567
Email: ashley.rivera@email.com
Summary
Attentive lifeguard with three years of experience at busy community pools. Certified in CPR and First Aid.
Proven record of collaborating with teams to maintain safety and deliver excellent guest service.
Experience
Lifeguard
Northside Recreation Center, Chicago, IL
June 2022 – August 2024
- Worked alongside a team of six lifeguards to oversee a 50-meter pool with over 300 daily visitors.
- Communicated effectively using hand signals and radios to alert the team of potential safety issues.
- Assisted teammates during stressful emergency drills and real-life rescues, ensuring coordinated actions.
- Participated in staff meetings to review protocols and improve joint response times for incidents.
- Trained new hires on teamwork strategies and shared responsibility for pool zone coverage.
Education
High School Diploma, Lane Tech High School, Chicago, IL
Graduated 2022
Certifications: American Red Cross Lifeguard, CPR/AED, First Aid
Skills
- Team communication
- Group problem solving
- Leadership in group settings
- Emergency response
- Water safety
References: Available upon request
For more ideas on ways to showcase teamwork on a lifeguard resume, use example-based descriptions, then tailor them for your unique job history.
9) Include communication and public interaction skills
Adding communication and public interaction skills to a lifeguard resume is essential. Lifeguards do more than watch the water—they give safety instructions, respond to emergencies, and answer questions from the public.
These abilities show that they can remain calm, give clear directions, and ensure everyone understands the rules. Employers look for clear, helpful communication on every shift.
Demonstrating these skills on a resume proves the candidate is ready for direct responsibility and teamwork.
LIFEGUARD
Emily Harper
emily.harper@email.com
(555) 123-4567
Dallas, TX
Professional Summary
Dedicated lifeguard with three summers of poolside experience. Proven skills in public safety, water rescue, and clear communication.
Skilled at helping guests understand pool rules and responding to emergencies.
Key Skills
- Strong verbal communication
- Public interaction and customer service
- Clear conflict resolution
- Safety instruction and education
- Emergency response
Experience
City Pool Lifeguard
Dallas Parks & Recreation, Dallas, TX
June 2022 – August 2024
- Welcomed up to 200 daily visitors and clearly explained pool guidelines and safety policies.
- Led safety briefings for swim lessons and group activities, helping reduce rule violations by 30%.
- Used calm, professional language to resolve conflicts and answer questions from guests of diverse backgrounds.
- Assisted in administering first aid and communicating clearly with emergency responders when needed.
Certifications
Red Cross Lifeguard Certification—2022
CPR & First Aid—2022
Education
Lakewood High School, Dallas, TX
Graduated: 2022
10) Demonstrate conflict resolution capabilities
Lifeguards must often settle disagreements between swimmers, parents, or even coworkers. Being able to resolve conflicts calmly and fairly is a valuable skill that hiring managers notice.
Showing clear examples of handling tense situations on your resume can help prove you are a reliable and level-headed candidate. Focus on moments where you managed a dispute, kept everyone safe, and enforced rules politely.
Sample Lifeguard Resume Section – Conflict Resolution Example
EXPERIENCE
Ocean Breeze Community Pool, Lifeguard
May 2022 – August 2024
- Mediated disagreements between swimmers over pool rules, efficiently explaining guidelines and helping resolve disputes without escalation.
- Addressed complaints from guests regarding lane usage, coordinating timely solutions with staff and swimmers to ensure fair pool access for everyone.
- Helped a group of teenagers avoid an argument with younger children by speaking calmly, listening to each side, and guiding both groups to enjoy separate designated areas.
- Maintained a positive environment even during busy hours by applying clear communication and conflict resolution practices at all times.
- Supported team members during challenging interactions with visitors, providing backup as needed and calmly de-escalating tensions.
- Received positive feedback in end-of-season reviews for professional handling of difficult situations and maintaining safety standards while enforcing pool policies.
- Attended monthly staff meetings and contributed ideas for better conflict management at the facility.
SKILLS
Conflict Resolution | Communication | Teamwork | Leadership | Emergency Response | Rule Enforcement
This sample shows how to add conflict resolution experience in your lifeguard resume. Keep each bullet point clear, focus on specific actions, and use strong verbs.
11) Add any relevant training or workshops completed
Lifeguards who include specialized training and workshops on their resumes show hiring managers that they are committed to professional growth. This section is an opportunity to list water safety seminars, emergency response courses, first aid refreshers, or any related certifications beyond basic CPR.
Job seekers can also add completed workshops on customer service or teamwork, which support their reliability as a lifeguard. Adding these trainings and workshops demonstrates an eagerness to learn and a readiness to handle different situations at work.
Template Example: Lifeguard Resume—Relevant Training and Workshops Section
CERTIFICATIONS & TRAINING
-
American Red Cross Lifeguarding with CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers
Completed: May 2024
Description: Intensive training in CPR, AED operation, water rescue techniques, spinal injury management, and first aid emergency response. Certificate valid through May 2026. -
Emergency Oxygen Administration Workshop
Completed: March 2024
Description: Hands-on workshop focused on the safe administration of emergency oxygen, identifying breathing emergencies, and using oxygen delivery devices in aquatic environments. -
Water Safety Instructor Course (WSI)
Completed: January 2025
Description: Comprehensive American Red Cross course covering water safety, instructional techniques for teaching swimming skills, and risk assessment for both indoor and outdoor pools. -
Advanced First Aid & Injury Prevention
Completed: February 2024
Description: Workshop featuring the management of minor and severe aquatic injuries, bleeding control, and rapid injury assessment to minimize risk and improve outcomes during pool incidents. -
Team Communication Workshop
Completed: December 2023
Description: Group training focused on effective communication among staff, conflict resolution, and teamwork during busy or stressful shifts.
This section can fit right after the education section or as its own section following certifications.
12) List physical fitness level and swimming proficiency
Including details about physical fitness and swimming proficiency is essential for lifeguard resumes. Employers want proof that the applicant can handle rescues, stay alert, and respond quickly.
It’s important to be specific. Include swim test results, relevant certifications, and personal achievements.
Example Resume Section: Physical Fitness and Swimming Proficiency
Physical Fitness and Swimming Proficiency
- Red Cross Certified: Successfully completed lifeguard training, including CPR, First Aid, and Water Rescue.
- Swim Endurance: Can swim 500 meters freestyle in under 9 minutes.
- Rescue Skills: Performed practice timed rescues, retrieving and towing a 10-pound brick from 10 feet deep water within standard times.
- Daily Fitness: Maintain a regular exercise regimen including swimming laps, running three miles, and strength training four times per week.
- Lifeguard Drills: Participate in weekly team fitness drills and practice emergency scenarios to stay prepared.
Certifications
- American Red Cross Lifeguarding Certificate (Valid through 2026)
- CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers (Active)
- First Aid for Aquatic Emergencies
Achievements
- Won first place in school’s 200-meter swimming competition.
- Recognized for perfect attendance in all physical readiness drills.
- Completed a 1-mile open water swim at a community event.
References
Available upon request.
13) Highlight knowledge of safety protocols and regulations
Employers look for lifeguards who not only have strong swimming skills but also know how to spot and manage risks. Showcasing your understanding of safety protocols and regulations is important on your resume.
This can include experience with enforcing local and federal water safety rules, conducting regular safety checks, and responding to emergencies according to established guidelines. By including specific details about your safety knowledge, you stand out as a responsible and prepared candidate.
For more details on what to include, check out these lifeguard resume examples.
Example Resume Section: Safety Protocols and Regulations
John Thompson
555 Beach Avenue, Miami, FL 33133
(555) 123-4567
john.thompson@email.com
Summary:
Certified Lifeguard with 3+ years of experience at community and public pools. Skilled at enforcing water safety guidelines, managing risk, and responding quickly to emergencies.
Skills:
- CPR and First Aid Certified (Red Cross)
- Strong knowledge of state and federal pool regulations
- Emergency Response Protocols
- Daily hazard inspection
- Excellent communication
Experience:
Lifeguard | Miami Community Pool
June 2022 – Present
- Ensured all swimmers followed water safety protocols, reducing incidents by 25% over two summers.
- Regularly inspected pool areas for hazards and updated safety checklists each shift.
- Provided education for guests on pool rules and emergency procedures.
- Worked closely with team members to conduct safety drills and train on new procedures.
- Responded quickly to emergencies, using knowledge of current rescue protocols.
Education:
High School Diploma, Miami Central High, 2021
CPR/First Aid Certification, American Red Cross, 2022
References available upon request.
14) Mention any experience with equipment maintenance
Including equipment maintenance experience on a lifeguard resume shows responsibility and attention to safety. Employers look for candidates who can inspect and maintain pool equipment, first aid kits, and rescue tools.
This can make a resume stand out, especially when combined with skills like emergency response and water safety. Here’s a full-length resume example that prominently features equipment maintenance skills for a lifeguard position.
Lifeguard Resume Example Featuring Equipment Maintenance
Name: Jamie Perez
Phone: (555) 123-4567
Email: jamie.perez@email.com
Location: Orlando, FL
Professional Summary
Certified lifeguard with over three years’ experience ensuring pool safety and performing regular equipment maintenance. Skilled in inspecting, cleaning, and repairing lifesaving gear and pool machinery.
Dedicated to providing a safe aquatic environment through vigilant monitoring and quick emergency response.
Certifications
- American Red Cross Lifeguard
- CPR/AED Certified
- First Aid Certified
Work Experience
Lifeguard
Orlando Community Pool, Orlando, FL
June 2022 – Present
- Monitored water activity and enforced rules to prevent accidents
- Conducted weekly inspections of rescue tubes, backboards, pool ladders, and first aid kits
- Cleaned and maintained pool filtration and pump systems, keeping clear log records
- Notified management of damaged or malfunctioning equipment and coordinated timely repairs
- Trained junior staff on proper use and care of safety equipment
- Performed water rescues and administered first aid as needed
Key Skills
- Equipment maintenance and inspections
- Pool chemical management
- Water rescue techniques
- Emergency response
- Staff training
Education
High School Diploma
Lakeview High School, Orlando, FL
Graduated: 2022
References available upon request
15) Include volunteer experience related to water safety
Listing volunteer experience related to water safety can improve a lifeguard resume, especially for those starting in their careers or looking to show extra dedication. Employers value extra hands-on experience, and volunteer work highlights both commitment and important skills.
Activities can include serving at local pools, organizing swim lessons, or assisting with community water safety events. For more ideas on structuring this section, consider the advice found in expert-written lifeguard resume examples.
Resume Example—Including Volunteer Experience Related to Water Safety
Name: Jordan Smith
Phone: (555) 123-4567
Email: jordan.smith@email.com
Location: San Diego, CA
Summary
Certified lifeguard with three summers of experience at community pools and events. Skilled in emergency response, CPR, and water safety education.
Passionate about ensuring a safe aquatic environment for all participants.
Experience
Lifeguard
City Community Pool, San Diego, CA
June 2023–August 2024
- Monitored swimmer safety with high attention to detail.
- Responded to and assisted in water-related emergencies.
- Taught basic swimming and safety techniques to children and adults.
Volunteer Experience
Water Safety Volunteer
San Diego Splash Foundation
January 2023–Present
- Assisted instructors during free community swim lessons for youth and adults.
- Organized water safety awareness events at local schools.
- Distributed educational materials on drowning prevention and safe swimming habits.
- Participated in beach cleanup initiatives to keep recreational water areas safe.
Certifications
- American Red Cross Lifeguarding
- CPR & First Aid
Education
San Diego High School, Diploma
Graduated: 2024
Skills
- Emergency response
- First Aid & CPR
- Water rescue techniques
- Public communication
- Bilingual: English/Spanish
Frequently Asked Questions
Writing a strong lifeguard resume in 2025 means showing real skills, official certifications, and work experience. Smart formatting and the right level of detail help job seekers stand out, whether they are in high school or have worked for years.
What are key skills to include on a lifeguard resume in 2025?
Most employers want to see up-to-date certifications, such as CPR and First Aid. Important skills such as emergency response, strong swimming, alertness, quick decision-making, and customer service are also essential.
Technical know-how, including knowledge of rescue equipment and water safety protocols, can further improve a resume. For more skill examples, check this 15 Lifeguard Resume Examples & Guide for 2025.
Example of key skills section
- Lifeguard/CPR/First Aid Certified
- First responder to water emergencies
- Strong swimmer with rescue practice
- Knowledge of pool safety rules
- Calm under pressure
- Customer service and communication
- Teamwork and leadership
How can I make lifeguarding look good on a resume?
Showing real impact is important. Job seekers should use action verbs and measurable results when describing lifeguarding experience.
Listing situations where they prevented accidents, trained others, or improved safety makes the resume stronger. Mentioning hours supervised, the number of swimmers protected, or successful emergency responses adds value.
Example of experience section
Lifeguard
Sunnyvale Community Pool | May 2023 – Aug 2024
- Monitored 120+ swimmers daily to ensure safety
- Performed CPR and first aid during two separate emergencies
- Trained three new lifeguards on emergency protocols
- Enforced all pool rules, reducing incidents by 25%
Can you provide tips for writing a lifeguard resume with no prior experience?
For new lifeguards, focus on transferable skills and any related activities. Volunteer work, sports team participation, babysitting, or first aid classes are all helpful.
List certifications at the top and describe any customer service or teamwork experience clearly.
Template for entry-level lifeguard resume
Name
Contact Information
Professional Summary:
Responsible and alert high school student. Holds American Red Cross Lifeguard and CPR certification. Eager to ensure swimmer safety and maintain a positive environment.
Certifications:
- American Red Cross Lifeguard Certified, 2025
- CPR/First Aid Certified, 2025
Experience:
Volunteer, School Field Day – May 2024
- Supervised students during outdoor water activities
- Assisted with first aid for minor injuries
Skills:
- Quick learner
- Teamwork
- Strong communication
- Organized
How do you showcase a decade or more of experience on a lifeguard resume?
Emphasize longevity, advanced certifications, and leadership. List steady employment history, management roles, and any training responsibilities.
Point out improvements, such as policy changes or accident prevention. Quantify achievements and years of experience.
Example of resume entry for experienced lifeguard
Senior Lifeguard
Oceanview Aquatic Center | June 2012 – Present
- Over 12 years ensuring swimmer and staff safety
- Led a team of 15 lifeguards
- Created new training manual, improving emergency readiness
- Maintained perfect safety record (zero drownings or major incidents)
- Managed scheduling and compliance for aquatic events
What elements should be included in a high school student’s lifeguard resume?
A student resume should be clear and simple. Include certifications, short summaries, activities, and any work, volunteer, or leadership experience.
Focus on teamwork, communication, and responsibility.
Template for high school lifeguard resume
Name
Contact Information
Professional Summary:
Motivated high school junior, certified in American Red Cross Lifeguard and CPR. Enjoys helping others and maintaining a safe pool environment.
Certifications:
- Lifeguard, American Red Cross, 2025
- CPR/First Aid, 2025
Experience:
Swim Team Member – Lincoln High School, 2022 – 2025
- Practiced water safety
- Helped coach younger swimmers
Skills:
- Responsible
- Fast learner
- Good communicator
- Team oriented
What is the best format to use for a lifeguard resume in 2025?
Reverse-chronological format is best for most lifeguard resumes.
Contact details and a professional summary come first.
List certifications close to the top, followed by experience and skills.
Use short, clear bullet points and easy-to-read sections.
Avoid blocks of text.
Resume format example
Name
Contact Details
Professional Summary
Certifications
Work Experience
Education (if needed)
Skills
Using a well-organized resume template is important.
Platforms like RoboApply also help in resume scoring and formatting for different job boards.
