Lifeguard at City Pools

Reasons Why Lifeguarding is the Best Summer Job


Flexible Hours

If you are in summer classes, working another job or internship, have a vacation planned, the City pools provide flexible hours. We are more than willing to work with you to accommodate your schedule! We know summer is a busy season for everyone.

Fun Work Environment

A lifeguard job is rarely solo. You are a part of team! Since lifeguard jobs require collaboration, it's easy to get to know one another. Nothing forges a bond quite like ensuring safety and saving lives! Lifeguarding is a great chance to build lifelong friendships. 

Help Others

One of the most rewarding feelings of being a lifeguard is knowing that you have helped someone. Whether that be during a save, providing first aid, or customer service, helping others is what lifeguards do. When you work as a lifeguard, you get the satisfaction of knowing that you will actively make an impact in your community.

Learn How To Save Lives

You will be trained in water rescue and surveillance skills, First Aid, CPR, AED, and other lifesaving skills. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a first responder or medical professional lifeguarding will help you gain great experience. If not, these skills are practical throughout life, and no one knows when they might be necessary.

We Will Train You...for FREE!

Those needing to become lifeguard certified may do so for FREE when hired with the City of Dubuque. This is a $200 value!

Enjoy the Outdoors

It’s summer after all isn’t it? You get paid to work outside! Joining our lifeguard staff allows you to be outdoors unlike a lot of other summer job options. (We all need some Vitamin D, but make sure you apply sunscreen! Safety first!)

Competitive Pay

First year lifeguards are paid $15 per hour. Returning lifeguards are paid $17 per hour.

Interested in Being a Lifeguard?

If you're interested in a great summer job as a lifeguard, here is what you need to know! You must: 

  • be at least 15 years old,
  • have a certification in lifeguarding,
  • know water safety practices and usage of water safety equipment, and
  • complete a swimming skills test.

If you don't check all these boxes  – no sweat. We train you with the skills and certifications you need for FREE! 

2-Day Lifeguard Certification Training Course

Typically held in January, February, and March

Through videos, group discussion, and hands-on practice you’ll learn teamwork, rescue and surveillance skills, First Aid and CPR/AED, and other skills you need to work as a lifeguard. Successful completion results in a 2-year certification in lifeguarding. The training course is typically held in January, February, and March at the Dubuque Community YMCA. 

Certification is FREE for Those Hired as a Lifeguard at City Pools

The lifeguard certification class fee is waived for those who interview and are hired as a lifeguard for the summer season. For more information, contact Janna Beau via email or call 563.589.4315

Fill out the the Lifeguard Interest Form to receive information regarding lifeguard training courses and lifeguard job postings.

Contact Us

  1. Janna Beau | email
    Recreation Supervisor
    Phone: 563.589.4315
    Fax: 563.589.4391

    Bunker Hill
    2200 Bunker Hill Rd. Dubuque, IA 52001
    Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

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