Introduction

As the summer sun warms the waters of Grand Rapids’ community pools, a new wave of opportunity is rising for those who are ready to dive into a meaningful role.

The city is actively seeking passionate individuals to join its team of lifeguards for the 2025 summer swim season, and in a groundbreaking move, is once again offeringlifeguard certification and training for those who commit to serving at one of the city’s public pools.

In its fourth year running, this initiative by the Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation Department is not only a response to seasonal staffing needs but also a gateway for local residents—especially youth and students—to gain vital life-saving skills, earn income, and build professional credentials.

What the Program Offers

The lifeguard training program is impressively comprehensive. Participants receive instruction in:

• Water rescues
• Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
• Automated external defibrillator (AED) use
• First Aid procedures
• Team emergency response protocols

Upon completion and successful testing, trainees walk away with five certifications, all valid for two years. These certifications can be a springboard not only into seasonal employment with the city but also toward broader careers in aquatic safety, emergency services, or youth programs.

And yes—it’s all for those who commit to working at one of the city’s three public pools for the 2025 season.

New in 2025: Mentorship & Leadership Programs

For the upcoming season, Grand Rapids is exploring new ways to enrich the lifeguard experience by pairing new hires with experienced mentors. These mentors will guide them through:

• Poolside best practices
• Dealing with stressful situations
• Conflict resolution strategies
• Career and education advice

This mentorship model not only builds stronger teams but also helps instill confidence in first-time workers who may be nervous about the responsibility of keeping others safe.

Lifeguarding: More Than a Summer Gig

Many people view lifeguarding as a temporary summer job—but it’s so much more. It’s a training ground for leadership, communication, responsibility, and courage.

Some additional benefits include:

• Resume building: Certifications, experience, and references from city departments look impressive to colleges and future employers.
• Networking: You’ll work with parks officials, senior staff, and fellow guards, often opening doors to other public service or recreation positions.
• Life skills: You’ll develop crisis response instincts, attention to detail, and a calm, professional demeanor.

Former lifeguards frequently move on to careers in public safety, healthcare, education, and municipal leadership, citing this first job as foundational.

Embracing Diversity & Inclusion

Grand Rapids is also making efforts to ensure the program is inclusive and representative of the city’s diverse communities. Outreach programs are being coordinated with local schools, community centers, and neighborhood organizations to ensure that youth from all backgrounds are aware of this opportunity.

By creating a workforce that reflects the entire community, the city ensures that all residents feel welcome, represented, and safe when visiting public pools.

Earn While You Learn

In addition to skill-building and certification, this initiative also helps participants start earning quickly. Wages begin at $15 per hour, offering a solid seasonal income while allowing flexible summer hours that fit around school, family, or other part-time commitments.

David Marquardt, Parks and Recreation Director, shared his enthusiasm for the continuing success of the program:

“We’re happy to continue offering lifeguard certification to ensure new candidates can apply for this opportunity.”

The emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility has helped reduce barriers for youth who might otherwise not be able to afford certification fees or access professional training.

The Bigger Picture: Why Lifeguarding Matters

While it may seem like a summer gig to some, lifeguarding is much more than watching swimmers from a pool chair. Lifeguards are frontline safety professionals who make thousands of interventions every season to prevent injuries, drowning, and accidents.

Beyond the obvious physical safety aspects, lifeguards often act as community leaders—role models that younger kids look up to. They develop critical soft skills such as:

• Conflict resolution
• Decision-making under pressure
• Communication and teamwork
• Responsibility and time management

Many former lifeguards credit their summer work with shaping them into who they are today—firefighters, EMTs, nurses, educators, and even city leaders.

Certification Requirements & Training Details

To be eligible for the certification, candidates must commit to working as a lifeguard at a Grand Rapids public pool during the 2025 swim season. The training involves a multi-day course, which includes both classroom and in-water instruction. Attendance and successful completion of the course are required to receive certification.

Training sessions are usually offered in late spring or early summer to ensure candidates are prepared before the pools open. These sessions fill quickly, so interested individuals are encouraged to apply as soon as possible via the city’s website.

A Smart Move for Teens & College Students

This opportunity is tailor-made for high schoolers and college students looking for a rewarding summer job that stands out on resumes and scholarship applications. Lifeguard experience signals responsibility, leadership, and certification in life-saving skills—qualities highly regarded by employers, universities, and service organizations.

Additionally, lifeguards often become eligible for other opportunities within Parks and Rec departments, such as swim instructor roles, summer camp leadership, and eventually even supervisory positions.

Community Benefits Beyond the Pool

This program is more than just a staffing solution—it’s a community investment. By empowering local youth with training and income, the city ensures public safety while fostering a sense of ownership and pride among participants.

Parents can rest easy knowing pools are staffed with highly trained professionals. And for neighborhoods where access to summer jobs and educational experiences may be limited, the program acts as a bridge toward long-term economic and personal development.

It’s also worth noting that this initiative contributes to public health: open pools with trained staff mean more residents can enjoy safe swimming, which promotes fitness, community cohesion, and cooling off during heatwaves.

How to Apply

Ready to take the plunge? Interested candidates should visit the official City of Grand Rapids website for full details on eligibility, training dates, and application steps. The city’s Parks and Recreation Department also frequently updates its social media channels with upcoming opportunities and training reminders.

Applicants should be prepared to:

• Pass a basic swimming test (details on the website)
• Attend all training sessions
• Commit to working the 2025 swim season
• Be at least 15 years of age (some restrictions may apply)

No prior experience is necessary—just a willingness to learn and a desire to contribute to your community.

Also Read About:The Hidden Danger of Pool Peeing

Final Thoughts: A Ripple Effect of Good

Grand Rapids’ lifeguard training initiative is more than a seasonal job program. It’s a model for civic engagement, youth empowerment, and proactive public safety. Whether you’re a teen seeking a first job, a college student looking to earn while gaining real-world skills, or someone who simply loves the water and wants to make a difference—this is your chance to be a hero in your own community.

As lifeguards are fond of saying:

“You don’t have to wear a cape to save lives—sometimes, a whistle will do.”

Credit: Original reporting by Chris Bovia at Fox 17 provided the foundation for this expanded community-focused article.

Written by Harlan Elio

Community advocate, youth mentor, and freelance writer with a passion for spotlighting local opportunities that make a difference. Dedicated to building bridges between city resources and the people who need them most.