Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers
Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed
Monitor recreational areas, such as pools, beaches, or ski slopes, to provide assistance and protection to participants.
Median pay: $33,580/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +5.8% projected growth, 2024–2034 — faster than average.
About 42,700 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: No formal educational credential.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Patrol or monitor recreational areas, such as trails, slopes, or swimming areas, on foot, in vehicles, or from towers.
• Rescue distressed persons, using rescue techniques and equipment.
• Contact emergency medical personnel in case of serious injury.
• Examine injured persons and administer first aid or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, if necessary, using training and medical supplies and equipment.
• Warn recreational participants of inclement weather, unsafe areas, or illegal conduct.
• Maintain quality of pool water by testing chemical levels.
• Complete and maintain records of weather and beach conditions, emergency medical treatments performed, and other relevant incident information.
• Instruct participants in skiing, swimming, or other recreational activities and provide safety precaution information.
What's the median pay for Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers?
The median pay for Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers is $33,580 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers?
Employment for Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers is projected to change +5.8% from 2024 to 2034 - faster than average.
What education is typically required for Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers?
Typical entry-level education: No formal educational credential.
How many job openings are there each year for Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers?
About 42,700 openings per year, on average, over the decade.