Best Lifeguard Resume Examples For 2025 (Template & Guide)

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Lifeguard Resume: Choose a Format

Choosing the right resume format is key to showcasing your lifeguard experience in the best light. Consider your work history and strengths when deciding on a format, and choose the one that best highlights your qualifications.

There are three main options for a lifeguard resume: chronological, functional, or combination. Each format has advantages, so let’s explore what makes each one unique.

Chronological Resumes for Lifeguards

If you have a solid work history as a lifeguard, a chronological resume is perfect for you. This format lists your work experience, starting from your most recent job and working backward.

It’s great for showing a clear timeline of your career progression and reliability, making it easy for hiring managers to see your steady experience. However, if you have gaps in your employment or are new to lifeguarding, you may want to consider another option.

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Functional Resumes for Lifeguards

A functional resume is all about your skills and qualifications rather than your job history. This format is an excellent choice if you have gaps in your work history or are switching careers. It lets you shine a spotlight on your abilities in areas like water safety, emergency response, and customer service.

Just be aware that some employers might be a bit wary of this format since it doesn’t provide a detailed timeline of your work experience. Also, functional resumes are incompatible with most applicant tracking systems (ATS), which might hurt your resume’s chances of getting noticed.

Combination Resumes for Lifeguards

A combination resume blends elements from chronological and functional formats. It lets you highlight your key skills and qualifications at the top, followed by a detailed work history.

This format is ideal if you have a mix of relevant skills and a solid work history. It offers a well-rounded view of your abilities and experiences, making it a great option for many lifeguard applicants.

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Choosing a Resume Format

Choosing the right format is a crucial step in crafting your lifeguard resume. With so many options, it can feel overwhelming— but don’t worry! When in doubt, a chronological format is always a safe bet.

This format is great because it’s straightforward, familiar to employers, and easy for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to process.

But what if you don’t have much lifeguard experience? No problem! You can still make a chronological resume work for you. In your work history section, focus on any previous jobs that taught you transferable skills.

Then, highlight your most relevant skills, training and certifications. For instance, if you’re certified in CPR or First Aid or have strong swimming skills, these should be prominently listed in your skills section.

Even if you’re new to lifeguarding, thoughtfully presenting your skills and experiences can make a big difference. Tailoring your chronological resume to emphasize your strengths and relevant qualifications will help you stand out, even if your job history isn’t a perfect match.

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How to Write a Lifeguard Resume

Once you choose a format and a great resume template, you are ready to start writing your lifeguard resume!

First, you will make a resume outline that includes the following five sections:

• • • • • Contact Information
        • Summary or Objective
        • Work History
        • Skills
        • Education

After you have completed those five essential sections, you can also add some optional sections to enhance your resume and stand out as a candidate for the lifeguard position.

Each section is an important part of making a great first impression. Keep reading this step-by-step guide to determine how to make the most of each section.

Contact Information

Your contact information is one of the most important parts of your resume. Make sure to include your full name, city and state, phone number, and email address. Keeping this information current is crucial so potential employers can easily reach you.

Place your contact information at the top of your resume, where it is easy to find. Keep it professional—use a simple email address that includes your name, and avoid any unnecessary details like your complete mailing address.

You can format your contact information in a variety of ways depending on your resume template, but it should look something like this:

Sarah Johnson
Los Angeles, CA
(213) 555-7890
sarah.johnson@example.com

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Summary or Objective

The summary or objective at the top of your resume is your chance to make a great first impression. Catch the reader’s attention by writing 2 to 3 sentences describing your career goals and qualifications.

This brief introduction should quickly convey who you are and what you bring to the table.

If you’re an experienced lifeguard, a resume summary is the way to go. It provides a quick snapshot of your skills, experiences, and achievements. Think of it as your elevator pitch—short, sweet, and packed with your most impressive qualifications.

For example, a resume summary for a lifeguard resume might say:

“Certified lifeguard with over 5 years of experience ensuring the safety of swimmers at public pools and beaches. Skilled in CPR, First Aid, and emergency response, strongly committed to maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for all patrons.”

For those new to lifeguarding, an objective statement is a better choice. This focuses on your career goals and what you aim to achieve in the role. It’s a great way to show your enthusiasm and dedication, even if you don’t have a lot of direct experience yet.

For example, an objective statement for a lifeguard resume might say:

“Dedicated and responsible individual seeking a lifeguard position to utilize strong swimming skills and knowledge of water safety. Committed to ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for all patrons.”

Whether you choose a summary or an objective, tailor your statement to each job application. Highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the specific lifeguard position you’re applying for.

Use keywords from the job description to help your resume stand out to Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). This increases your chances of getting noticed by hiring managers.

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Work History

Your work history is one of the most critical sections of your lifeguard resume. Your work history section is where you get to showcase your experience, responsibilities, and achievements.

Even if you’re new to lifeguarding, this section can still shine by highlighting relevant experiences and transferable skills.

Start by listing your previous jobs in reverse chronological order. Start with your most recent job and work your way backward. This will help employers see your most current experience first. For each job, list your job title, the name of the employer, location, and dates of employment.

Then, describe your responsibilities and achievements in bulleted sentences for easy readability. Focus on your most relevant responsibilities and highlight any achievements.

Use strong action verbs to start each bullet point to make this section more effective. Action verbs like “monitored,” “performed,” “conducted,” or “trained” make your work history more dynamic and engaging.

Pro Tip: Whenever possible, use numbers to highlight your accomplishments. For example, “Trained over 50 new lifeguards in CPR and First Aid” or “Monitored a pool with an average of 200 daily visitors.” This demonstrates your value and provides a unique context for employers.

To show hiring managers you are a great fit for the job, customize your work history to match the job description.

Emphasize the responsibilities and skills that are most relevant to the lifeguard position you’re applying for. If you’ve had other jobs that involved customer service, safety, or supervision, include them. Show how those roles helped you develop skills that are transferable to lifeguarding.

Here’s a standout example of a job entry for a lifeguard resume:

Lifeguard
Sunny Beach Resort, Los Angeles, CA
May 2018 – August 2020

• • • • • Monitored beachfront and pool areas to ensure the safety of over 300 guests daily.
        • Successfully performed 15 rescues, providing emergency care and coordinating with medical personnel.
        • Trained and supervised a team of 10 junior lifeguards, enhancing their skills in water safety and rescue techniques.
        • Implemented a new swim safety program that reduced incidents by 20%.

By following these tips and structuring your work history effectively, you’ll create a work history that showcases your experience and qualifications, even if you’re writing a lifeguard resume for the first time.

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Skills

Creating a dedicated skills section is a must for any lifeguard resume. It allows you to showcase both hard and soft skills, giving potential employers a well-rounded view of your abilities.

Hard skills are specific, teachable abilities like swimming and emergency response, while soft skills are personal attributes that help you interact effectively with others. Both are essential for a successful lifeguard.

To help you get started, we have listed the top skills for a lifeguard’s resume for you here:

Top 5 Hard Skills for Lifeguard Resumes

• • • • • • CPR and First Aid Certification: Being certified in CPR and First Aid is non-negotiable for lifeguards. It equips you to handle emergencies and provide lifesaving care until medical professionals arrive. These certifications demonstrate your preparedness and commitment to safety.
          • Water Safety Knowledge: This skill is critical for preventing accidents. Understanding water safety protocols helps you maintain a safe environment for all swimmers. It includes knowledge about currents, water conditions, and the best practices for keeping everyone safe.
          • Strong Swimming Skills: As a lifeguard, you must be an excellent swimmer. This skill is necessary for performing rescues and assisting swimmers in distress. Your swimming proficiency can make the difference between life and death in emergency situations.
          • Emergency Response: Responding quickly and effectively in emergencies is a key part of a lifeguard’s job. This includes recognizing the signs of distress, performing rescues, and administering first aid. Employers need to know you can stay calm and act decisively under pressure.
          • Lifeguard Training: Formal lifeguard training shows you’re prepared for the job’s physical and mental demands. This training covers everything from rescue techniques to the use of safety equipment, ensuring you’re ready for any situation.

Top 5 Soft Skills for Lifeguard Resumes

• • • • • Communication: Lifeguards must communicate safety rules, provide instructions, and interact with patrons and team members. Good communication skills ensure everyone understands what’s required to stay safe.
        • Attention to Detail: Vigilance is crucial in lifeguarding. You must continuously monitor swimmers and detect potential hazards before they become emergencies. This skill helps prevent accidents and ensures a safe swimming environment.
        • Problem-Solving: Lifeguards often face unexpected situations that require quick thinking and effective solutions. Whether it’s a minor injury or a major emergency, your ability to solve problems efficiently is invaluable.
        • Leadership: Even if you’re not in a supervisory role, leadership skills are essential. They help you take charge in emergencies, guide team activities, and conduct safety drills. Strong leadership ensures coordinated and effective responses to any situation.
        • Patience: Dealing with various situations and individuals requires a lot of patience. Whether it’s managing a crowd, calming down a distressed swimmer, or handling a difficult situation, patience helps maintain order and provide the best care.

You can format the skills section of a lifeguard resume in various ways. For example, you may include a detailed skill section like this:

SKILLS

• • • • • CPR and First Aid Certification
        • Strong Swimming Skills
        • Excellent Communication
        • Attention to Detail
        • Problem-Solving
        • Bilingual (English/Spanish)

Including both hard and soft skills in your resume shows that you have the technical abilities needed for lifeguarding and the interpersonal qualities that make you effective in the role. This balanced approach will make your resume stand out to potential employers.

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Education

Your educational background is an important part of your lifeguard resume, even if you’re just starting out in the workforce. Including your education shows potential employers that you have the necessary foundational skills and are committed to learning.

Start with your highest level of education. If you have a high school diploma, list the name of your school, its location, and your graduation date.

If you took any courses that are particularly relevant to lifeguarding, such as physical education, health, or even specific swimming classes, you can list those courses in bullet points below your degree information.

If you have certifications in CPR, First Aid, or other related areas, you can include these in your education section. However, creating an additional section labeled “Certifications” may be more effective in helping that information stand out to potential employers.

Here’s how to list your education on a lifeguard resume:

EDUCATION

High School Diploma
Miami High School, Miami, FL

Graduated: May 2018

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Additional Sections

Adding optional sections to your lifeguard resume can significantly enhance your application and help you stand out from other candidates.

These sections provide additional insights into your qualifications, experiences, and dedication.

Some optional sections for a lifeguard resume to consider are:

• • • • • Certifications: Including certifications is crucial for a lifeguard resume. They demonstrate that you have the specific training and credentials necessary for the job. Not only do they prove your skills, but they also show that you’ve invested time and effort into becoming a qualified lifeguard.
        • Volunteer Work: Listing volunteer work showcases your community involvement and dedication to helping others. If you’ve volunteered in safety, swimming, or community service roles, be sure to include these. It highlights your willingness to go above and beyond and can make a positive impression on employers.
        • Awards: If you’ve received any awards, whether they’re related to swimming, leadership, or community service, include them in this section. Awards highlight your achievements and recognitions, demonstrating your excellence and commitment to your field.

Including these additional sections can provide a fuller picture of who you are and what you bring to the table, making your resume more compelling and memorable.

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Top Certifications For Lifeguards

Certifications are a critical part of a lifeguard’s qualifications. They not only validate your skills and knowledge but also reassure employers that you’re prepared to handle the responsibilities of the job.

Here are some top certifications that can enhance your lifeguard resume:

• • • • • American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification: This is the standard lifeguard credential and is widely recognized. It covers essential skills like water rescues, CPR, and First Aid, ensuring you’re prepared for most situations you’ll encounter on the job.
        • CPR and First Aid Certification: This certification is essential for emergency response. It shows you’re trained to provide immediate care in critical situations, which is a key part of lifeguarding.
        • Water Safety Instructor (WSI): This certification qualifies you to teach swimming lessons. It’s a great addition if you’re applying for positions that involve instructing swimmers, as it shows you can provide professional and safe swimming education.
        • Lifeguard Management Certification: This certification is perfect if you want to move into a supervisory role. It demonstrates your leadership skills and knowledge of managing lifeguard teams and operations, making you a strong candidate for higher-level positions.
        • Open Water Lifeguard Certification: This certification is a must if you want to work at beaches or other open water environments. It prepares you for the unique challenges of open water lifeguarding, such as dealing with currents and waves, making you well-suited for these demanding roles.

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10 Tips For Writing A Lifeguard Resume

1. Highlight Certifications: Certifications are crucial for a lifeguard resume. Make sure to list all relevant certifications, such as CPR, First Aid, and lifeguard training, right at the top of your resume. This immediately shows employers you’re qualified for the job.
2. Use Action Verbs: Action verbs make your resume more dynamic and engaging. Start each bullet point in your work history with a strong verb like “monitored,” “rescued,” or “instructed.” For example, “Monitored pool areas to ensure swimmer safety” sounds more compelling than “Responsible for watching pool areas.”
3. Quantify Achievements: Numbers can make your accomplishments more concrete. For instance, instead of saying “Performed rescues,” say “Performed over 20 successful rescues in one summer season.” This provides a clear picture of your experience and effectiveness.
4. Customize for Each Job: Tailor your resume to the specific lifeguard position you’re applying for. If the job description emphasizes customer service, highlight your experience interacting with pool patrons. Customization shows you’ve put thought into how your skills match the employer’s needs.
5. Keep It Concise: While it’s important to be thorough, your resume should also be concise. Aim for a one-page resume that clearly conveys your qualifications without overwhelming the reader with too much information.
6. Showcase Relevant Skills: Focus on skills that are directly relevant to lifeguarding, such as swimming proficiency, knowledge of water safety protocols, and emergency response skills. Use a dedicated skills section to make these stand out.
7. Include Keywords: Many employers use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen resumes. Use keywords from the job posting to help your resume get noticed. For example, if the job description mentions “emergency response” and “customer service,” make sure these phrases appear in your resume.
8. Proofread: Spelling and grammatical errors can make a bad impression. Carefully proofread your resume, or ask a friend or family member to review it for you. A polished resume shows you’re detail-oriented and professional.
9. Use a Professional Format: Choose a clean, professional resume template. Avoid overly flashy designs or fonts. A simple, easy-to-read format will make it easier for employers to review your qualifications.
10. Add Volunteer Experience: Volunteer work can highlight your dedication and additional skills. If you’ve volunteered in roles related to safety, health, or community service, be sure to include this. It shows you’re committed to helping others and have relevant experience beyond paid positions.