Start Your Lifeguard Career Here
People of all ages come to the Y for water safety education, swim lessons and healthy activity in the pool. Lifeguards are essential to keeping that environment safe for everyone. Lifeguard training and certification at the Y follows American Red Cross lifeguarding curriculum to teach you how to effectively prevent and respond to water emergencies. Whether you are looking for a great first job or a career as a professional lifeguard, this is the place to begin.
Your Path to Certification
Becoming a certified lifeguard at the Y is a straightforward process. Here is what to expect from start to finish.
Meet the Prerequisites
Confirm you meet the age and swim ability requirements before registering — including the swim – tread – swim sequence and timed rescue event.
Register for a Course
Find an upcoming lifeguard course and sign up online. Members receive reduced rates.
Complete Training
Participate in classroom sessions, group discussions and hands-on practice covering rescue techniques, CPR and emergency response.
Get Certified
Earn your American Red Cross Lifeguard certification and be ready to apply for open positions at the Y or in your community.
Lifeguard Training & Certification Prerequisites
Before enrolling, participants must meet the following requirements:
- be at least 15 years of age on or before the final scheduled session of the course
- complete a swim-tread-swim sequence by swimming 150 yards continuously using the front crawl or breaststroke with breath control and rhythmic breathing
- tread water for 2 minutes using only the legs, and swim an additional 50 yards
- complete a timed event within 1 minute and 40 seconds — without goggles
The timed event begins in the water: swim 20 yards, surface dive feet-first or head-first to a depth of 7–10 feet to retrieve a 10-pound object, return to the surface, swim 20 yards on your back with both hands holding the object, then exit the water without using a ladder or steps.
Ready to Work at the Y?
Once you are certified, the YMCA of the Fox Cities is a great place to put your skills to work. We hire lifeguards at multiple locations across the Fox Cities, and it is one of the most rewarding jobs you will ever have. You will be part of a team that keeps our community safe, supports swimmers of all ages and makes a real difference every day. Check our job board for current openings and take the first step toward a meaningful career.
Frequently Asked Questions
You must be at least 15 years of age on or before the final scheduled session of the course.
You must be able to complete the swim – tread – swim sequence and complete a timed rescue event within 1 minute and 40 seconds.
You will earn an American Red Cross Lifeguard certification – including a certification in CPR/AED and First Aid upon successful completion of the course.
Course length varies by session — check the program listing for specific dates and times when you register.
Yes! The Y regularly hires lifeguards at locations across the Fox Cities. Browse our open positions on the employment page.
Check our program listings for current recertification course availability. Reach out to your nearest Y location for more information.
