Head Lifeguard

Lead the Team. Protect the Community. Spend Your Summer at the Beach!

Are you an experienced lifeguard ready to take the next step into leadership? Do you thrive in a fast-paced outdoor environment and enjoy helping others stay safe while having fun? If so, the Crystal Lake Park District is looking for enthusiastic, responsible, and motivated individuals to join our team as seasonal Head Lifeguard!

As a Head Lifeguard, you'll do more than watch the water—you'll help lead a team of lifeguards, support beach operations, respond to emergencies, and create a safe, welcoming experience for thousands of beach visitors throughout the summer.

What You'll Do

Leadership & Supervision

• Lead and support lifeguard staff during daily operations.
• Assist Beach Managers with overseeing beach activities, equipment, and facility conditions.
• Serve as a role model by demonstrating professionalism, teamwork, and excellent customer service.
• Assist with staff trainings, in-services, and daily operational needs.

Safety & Emergency Response

• Monitor swimming areas and perform preventative lifeguarding using the 10/20 scanning method.
• Respond to aquatic emergencies and perform rescues according to Starguard and Park District standards.
• Administer first aid, CPR, and AED care when necessary.
• Identify and address safety concerns, hazards, and rule violations promptly and professionally.

Customer Service

• Provide a positive, friendly, and welcoming experience for all beach patrons.
• Enforce beach rules with tact, consistency, and professionalism.
• Serve as a positive representative of the Crystal Lake Park District.

Facility Care

• Assist with maintaining a clean, safe, and attractive beach environment.
• Perform light maintenance and housekeeping tasks as needed.
• Report facility concerns and work collaboratively with management to resolve issues.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 16 years old.
• Current certifications in:
  • Starguard Elite Lifeguard Certification with Waterfront
• Ability to pass Head Lifeguard skills and knowledge assessments.
• Ability to pass the Guard Vision Screening Test.
• Strong knowledge of lifeguarding, rescue techniques, and aquatic safety practices.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.

Work Schedule

• Approximately 25–40 hours per week, depending on weather and attendance. The season runs from May 12-September 1, 2026.  
• Additional hours may be available as a Lifeguard and/or Swim Instructor.
• Must be available to work weekends, holidays, and evenings throughout the summer season. Tuesday evenings and Annual Firework Show are required.  
• Hours may fluctuate due to weather conditions and beach attendance.

The Crystal Lake Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  The Park District provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, military status, citizenship status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.  

For a full listing of our benefit offerings, please click here.