Lifeguards needed for 2026 beach season

Lifeguards needed for 2026 beach season

Pinellas County is seeking seasonal lifeguards to be stationed at Fort De Soto and Sand Key Park beaches from April to September. Individuals who enjoy helping the public in a fast-paced, detail-oriented role are encouraged to apply.

Positions are available for full-time or part-time seasonal employment. Pay starts at $20.50 per hour for new lifeguards and up to $23.22 per hour for returning senior lifeguards. Lifeguards with Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification and returning senior lifeguards with EMT certification can make even more per hour. Lifeguards may work 10-hour shifts. To apply, visit pinellas.gov/careers.

Applicants should meet the following requirements:

• Hold an American Red Cross lifeguarding certification, OR an equivalent combination of education, training and/or experience.
• Hold a current CPR/AED and first aid certification.
• Must complete 500-meter (550 yards) swim under 10 minutes and half-mile run under four minutes.
• Must be able to complete the 40-hours of training provided by Pinellas County Beach Patrol program.
• Must be at least 18 years old on the first day of employment.
• Ability to work at county beach parks as schedule and staffing demands change.
• Ability to work a variety of schedules, including weekends and holidays and compulsory work periods in special, emergency and/or disaster situations.
• Must possess a valid U.S. driver's license.

Highly desirable qualifications include:

• Current first responder, EMT or paramedic certification.
• At least three months of responsible lifeguarding experience.

A list of current job openings is available at pinellas.gov/careers. Certain service members and veterans, and the spouses and family members of these service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment by the state and are encouraged to apply for the positions.