Beach Lifeguard/Junior Lifeguard Instructor (Part-Time / Seasonal)

Hourly rate: $21.63 - $25.03

Test Dates: February 21st or March 8th 2026

Part-Time / Seasonal
______________________________
CURRENT OPENING

DUTIES

Under supervision, of the Lifeguard Captain, Beach Lifeguard/Junior Lifeguard Instructors are responsible for the safety of the beach and water within their jurisdiction, as well as areas adjacent to it. Employees assigned to lifeguard coverage will provide continual surveillance to the ocean-going community, other beach patrons, and any other hazards. He or she should be comfortable working individually or as part of a team. Employees assigned to Junior Guard program will implement and supervise public safety, the Junior Lifeguard program, events, and competitions, including sports, fitness, and swimming activities. Instructors will conduct a group of children, ages 6- 17, in his or her care on the beach and in the water.            

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be 18 years of age by July 1 of the applying year or age 17 for Capitola Junior Guards who have participated in the Captains Core Program and recommended for hire by Lifeguard Lieutenant/ JG Assistant Coordinator.
• Ability to obtain CPR Certification (Pro or healthcare provider).
• Physical ability and stamina to perform the duties of an open water lifeguard.
• The ability to meet and maintain a 500-meter ocean swim time of under 10 minutes.
• Vision 20-40 corrected.
• Criminal history and fingerprint check.
• Successful completion of Lifeguard training program after initial hiring process is completed. Successful completion and maintenance of required medical training certificates.
• Meet the minimum requirements for a USLA open water lifeguard.
• Proof of negative tuberculosis test or clear chest X-ray must be presented within 14 days of hire - No exceptions.

ABILITIES

• Swim in adverse weather conditions for extended periods of time.
• Adopt effective course of action in an emergency situation.
• Maintain constant observation of an assigned area for hazardous conditions and take appropriate action to prevent the public from interacting with those hazards.
• Interact in a professional and courteous manner with the public and other emergency service employees.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

• Possession of a USLA Open Water Lifeguard Training Certificate or written verification from last USLA employer.
• First Aid for Public Safety Personnel (Title 22) Certification.
• Advanced First Aid, First Responder, EMT, or Paramedic Certification.
• Participation in a Junior Lifeguard program.
• Training or experience in working with children and with special needs.
• Red Cross Lifeguard Training, Water Safety Instructor, or other aquatics training.
• Experience working as a lifeguard, particularly on the beach.
• A safe driving record as determined by the City’s Personnel Department.

SCHEDULE

The Beach Lifeguard/Junior Lifeguard Instructor is a Part-Time/Seasonal position from Memorial Day to October 31st, not to exceed 960 hours in a calendar year. Candidates for the Beach Lifeguard/Junior Lifeguard Instructor must be available for employment for the summer months (Memorial Day through Labor Day).

SELECTION PROCESS

Applicants are required to submit a City application in addition to resume and any relevant documents. Applicants with corrective lens restrictions must provide a physician’s note, dated within 30 days, to verify current vision. Those candidates who most closely meet the requirements of the position will be invited for a swim test and oral interview. Successful candidates must attend mandatory training stated below.

TEST

Candidates must complete 200-meter run, a 500-meter open water swim, a subsequent 200-meter run, for the swim to be completed in under ten (10) minutes and the entire test to be completed in under twelve (12) minutes. Wetsuits are permitted, no swim fins.

Paperwork Day: ALL STAFF March 21st

New Hire Academy: May 31st-June 5th

Recurrent Training: March 21st-23rd

Title 22 pt 1:   April 4th or April 11th or May 2nd

Title 22 pt 2:   April 5th or April 12th or May 3rd  

Title 22 pt 3 & CPR: May 10th or May 16th

If interested please fill out and submit a City of Capitola Employment Application located under Web Links on the Job Opening Page