As summer approaches, Grand Rapids is calling on community-minded individuals to take a vital role in keeping the city’s public pools safe, fun, and welcoming. With the city’s 2025 pool season right around the corner, the Parks and Recreation Department is hiring 80 lifeguards to serve at Briggs, Martin Luther King, and Richmond Park pools. More than just a job, this is an opportunity to be a local hero, develop life-saving skills, and build meaningful community connections.
More Than a Job: A Mission to Protect and Serve
Being a lifeguard is about more than just watching over swimmers—it’s about creating a safe environment where families and friends can enjoy summer moments together. David Marquardt, Parks and Recreation Director for Grand Rapids, captured the heart of the role when he stated, “Our lifeguards are key to ensuring visitors stay safe and enjoy their time at City pools.” This sense of purpose sets the tone for the city’s approach to public safety and community engagement. As frontline ambassadors, lifeguards are often the first to greet pool-goers, offering both security and a smile.
Open to All Ages 15 and Up – No Experience Required
One of the most exciting aspects of this program is its inclusive nature. Grand Rapids welcomes applications from those 15 years and older, offering both full-time and part-time opportunities. Whether you’re a student seeking your first job or someone returning to seasonal work, the city is committed to creating pathways for all. Experience isn’t necessary—just a willingness to learn, a commitment to responsibility, and a passion for making a difference in your community.
Lifeguard Certification – Breaking Down Barriers
To further support applicants, Grand Rapids is once again offering ALA lifeguard certification. This initiative, now in its fourth year, is aimed at removing financial barriers that often prevent enthusiastic candidates from applying. Certification courses in West Michigan can cost up to $275, but by waiving this fee, the city ensures that cost won’t stand in the way of public service. This not only expands access but also helps the city maintain a well-trained, high-quality safety team at its pools.
Comprehensive Training – Equipping You to Save Lives
The certification program isn’t just a formality. It delivers comprehensive training across five key areas: water rescues, CPR, AED use, First Aid, and more. These are life-saving skills that extend far beyond the pool deck, equipping lifeguards with tools that are valuable in daily life, future careers, or emergency situations. Once completed, certifications are valid for two years, offering flexibility and value beyond the summer season. In short, this is an investment in your future.
A Summer Job with Perks: Fitness, Teamwork, and Leadership
Lifeguarding offers more than a paycheck. It promotes physical fitness, builds communication skills, and instills a sense of leadership and discipline. You’ll work as part of a team, handle real-world responsibilities, and grow personally and professionally. It’s the kind of experience that stands out on resumes and college applications, showing that you can stay calm under pressure and take charge in critical moments. Whether you’re eyeing a future in healthcare, education, public service, or sports, lifeguarding is a strong stepping stone.
Get Involved and Make a Difference This Summer
If you’re someone who enjoys the outdoors, thrives in social environments, and wants to give back to the community, this is your chance to dive into something meaningful. With summer temperatures on the rise and pool season in full swing, your role as a lifeguard can truly be life-changing—not only for those you protect but for your own personal journey. The city also assures scheduling flexibility, and an aquatics manager will assist candidates in coordinating certification classes to suit their availability.
Also Read About: Get Certified with Confidence: Find the Best Lifeguard Certification
How to Apply and Join the Lifeguard Team
Applying is simple. Visit the City of Grand Rapids website to complete the application and indicate whether you need certification. After enrollment, the aquatics team will contact you to schedule training. Once certified and hired, you’ll become part of a summer-long mission of safety, connection, and impact. This is more than just a seasonal gig—it’s your moment to shine, serve, and grow.
Credit: Portions of this article are inspired by a February 2025 report on by the City of Grand Rapids.
Author Bio:
Harlan Elio is a passionate community advocate and writer dedicated to amplifying youth opportunities, urban development, and public service initiatives. He believes in storytelling that drives engagement, especially where purpose meets impact.
