Per Diem Lifeguard and Swim Instructor

Per Diem Lifeguard and Swim Instructor )

Category Aquatics

Region San Francisco/Peninsula

Job Type Part-Time

Close Date Until filled or until 100 applicants

$20.06-$25.15 Hourly

None

San Mateo is a city of more than 100,000 residents located in San Mateo County, California, on the San Francisco Peninsula. One of the City’s strengths is its diversity, both in the ethnic makeup and the physical development of the community. San Mateo has a vibrant business and retail environment with national and international businesses, two major shopping centers and an active downtown.
You would be joining over 500 people whose mission it is to serve the San Mateo community with a collaborative, innovative and professional spirit. We are looking for someone who embodies our shared values of respect, creativity, inclusivity, transparency, and integrity in their words and actions.

We invite applications for the position of:
Lifeguard/Swim Instructor

$20.06-$21.89/hour

$21.05-$25.15/hour with WSI

Open until filled

The City of San Mateo Parks and Recreation Department is looking responsible, enthusiastic, and team-oriented individuals to join our Aquatics Team!

Applicants must be at least 15 years old and able to obtain a work permit if under the age of 18.

Candidates must complete and pass the American Red Cross Lifeguard Training course, including Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) certification, by June 1, 2026. While not required, Water Safety Instruction (WSI) certification is highly desirable.

• Ensure Patron Safety:
  The primary responsibility of a lifeguard is to protect lives by preventing injuries and accidents. This includes remaining alert and vigilant, actively monitoring the pool and surrounding areas, recognizing hazards early, and responding quickly and effectively to emergencies—including water rescues, CPR, and first aid.
• Enforce Rules Consistently:
  Lifeguards help patrons stay safe by enforcing facility rules fairly and consistently. This involves monitoring behavior, addressing unsafe actions, and educating patrons about safe practices.
• Maintain a Clean and Safe Facility:
  Lifeguards assist with daily maintenance and cleanliness of the facility. Tasks may include checking and recording chemical levels, organizing and inspecting equipment (including rescue buoy, Shepard's hook, First Aid pack, etc...), picking up trash and debris, and reporting or addressing unsafe facility conditions.
• Availability:
  Ability to work a minimum 25 hours a week from June 15th – August 9th, including some weekends. Pre-planned and approved vacation requests may be accommodated.

• Provide Instruction Across Levels:
  Teach swim lesson participants across a range of skill levels, following established curriculum and safety standards.
• Ensure Participant Safety:
  Maintain constant awareness and create a safe learning environment for all participants within your class.
• Maintain Professional Class Operations:
  Arrive prepared and work all scheduled hours, begin and end classes on time, stay afterward to answer participant or parent questions, and ensure all equipment and supplies are properly cleaned.
• Assess and Support Student Progress:
  Instruct, observe, and evaluate students’ skills and progress throughout the session, providing clear feedback and guidance.
• Complete Required Documentation:
  Accurately complete and submit report cards, skills sheets, attendance records, and any other required documentation on time.

Interviews:
Between March and May 2026

In-Service Training:
June 8th – 12th (Mandatory Attendance)

Summer Session:
June 15th – August 9th

Weekly In-Service:
Every Other Friday 9:30am-12:30pm

Programming Daily

Hours:

(scheduled shifts may vary)

M-F 9:45am-7:00pm

Sat 9:45am-5:15pm

SU 12:45pm-5:15pm

Applications can be found on our website yofsanmateo.org , online opps.org or at City facilities to e-mail to Mburwell. If you have any questions, contact Community Services Supervisor, Michelle Burwell via email or .

Prior to hire, candidates will be required to successfully…