Lifeguards and Water Safety Instructors

Three lifeguards in yellow shirts and red shorts holding rescue tubes at a public pool on a sunny day.

Are you interested in becoming a City of Tucson lifeguard for summer 2026?

Here's what you need to know:

  • Pay starts at $16.75/hr.
  • Must be 15 at the time of application.
  • Must be able to commit to a full class schedule (24 hours total).
  • Must be available to work all of June and July (potential to work through the year)
  • Must pass Swim Test
    • 300-yard continuous approach stroke without tube (front crawl)
    • 50-yard approach stroke with a rescue tube
    • 2 minutes treading water using legs only (hands out of the water at the wrist)
    • 50-yard side stroke supporting a dummy
    • Retrieve a 10 lb. diving brick from ~12 feet, return it to the surface, and exit the pool without a ladder. 

Final Lifeguard Class for Summer 2026 Employment

*Must be available to attend all dates and times outlined below.

Swim Test and Starguard Class

Must pass the swim test to attend the Starguard classes. Must attend all classes to be hired.

Date: Wednesday, May 6
Location: Archer Pool, 1665 S. La Cholla Blvd
Time: 5:30 p.m. 

Starguard Class #1

Dates: Saturday, May 9, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Location: Parks and Recreation Administration, 900 S. Randolph Way (Mesquite Room

Starguard Class #2

Dates: Sunday, May 10, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.  
Location: Catalina Pool, 2005 N. Dodge Blvd. 

Starguard Class #3

Dates: Monday, May 11, 4:30-9:30 p.m.
Location: Catalina Pool, Archer Pool, 1665 S. La Cholla Blvd.

Starguard Class #4

Dates: Tuesday, May 12, 4:30-9:30 p.m.
Location: Catalina Pool, Archer Pool, 1665 S. La Cholla Blvd.

Lifeguard Orientation: Tuesday, May 26

Swim Safety Instructor (SSI)

Interested in teaching swim lessons? The City of Tucson offers Swim Safety Instructor (SSI) certification as an internal advancement opportunity for our lifeguard staff.

All City of Tucson swim instructors are trained and certified through the Starfish Aquatics Institute (SSI). At this time, SSI certification is only available to current City of Tucson lifeguards.

For questions about training or employment, email cotlifeguard@tucsonaz.gov.

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Contact

Email: cotlifeguard@tucsonaz.gov

Phone: 520-837-8119

 

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