Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers
Lifeguards, ski patrol workers, and other recreational protective service workers monitor beaches, pools, ski slopes, and similar venues to ensure participant safety. They watch for hazards, enforce rules, respond to emergencies, and provide first aid when needed. This work takes place outdoors and in various recreational settings.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against lifeguards, ski patrol, and other recreational protective service workers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves scanning assigned areas for safety risks, checking equipment, and enforcing facility rules. Workers respond to minor injuries, provide first aid, and document incidents. Duties vary by setting: pool lifeguards manage water safety and conduct rescues; ski patrol workers assess avalanche risks and help injured skiers. Much of the work involves standing watch, with activity levels depending on visitor volume and weather conditions.
Who this work suits
Holland code RSC. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely do well in this work if you're practical and action-oriented, preferring hands-on responsibilities in outdoor or active environments. You tend to be attentive to others' needs and enjoy direct interaction, making quick decisions that help keep people safe. Strong observation skills and comfort with emergency situations are important strengths.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Openings right now
- MWR Lifeguard (Pool) · Commander, Navy Installations Command · Multiple Locations · $42324–$48001
- MWR Recreation Assistant (Pool Lifeguard) · Commander, Navy Installations Command · Fallon, Nevada · $43821–$43821
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $53,240 | $60,400 | $70,100 | 290 |
| Hawaii | $45,260 | $52,630 | $64,740 | 720 |
| California | $37,320 | $42,720 | $44,960 | 22,620 |
| Washington | $35,310 | $37,770 | $44,550 | 4,720 |
| Montana | $30,100 | $37,750 | $44,610 | 270 |
| Massachusetts | $34,510 | $36,650 | $41,600 | 2,640 |
| New York | $34,110 | $36,590 | $39,900 | 8,740 |
| Vermont | $33,390 | $36,030 | $42,140 | 310 |
| Connecticut | $34,010 | $35,960 | $38,150 | 1,510 |
| Rhode Island | $34,070 | $35,770 | $37,440 | 370 |
| Colorado | $33,710 | $35,640 | $38,060 | 5,430 |
| Arizona | $31,030 | $35,380 | $36,720 | 3,950 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Lifeguard Certification — American Red Cross
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against lifeguards, ski patrol, and other recreational protective service workers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 33-9092.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.