Lifeguarding and leadership

Learn the steps to get certified and apply to be a lifeguard or swim instructor. 

On this page:

  1. Build leadership skills
  2. Get the certifications you need
  3. Renew your certifications
  4. Apply for a job
  5. Learn about the Lifesaving Society

Build leadership skills

Take Lifesaving Society leadership courses to build skills and move toward certification:

  1. Bronze Star (11+) – introduction to lifesaving and fitness; prepares you for Bronze Medallion.
  2. Bronze Medallion (13+) – first step toward lifeguarding; teaches judgment, knowledge and rescue skills.
  3. Bronze Cross (13+) – prepares you for assistant lifeguard responsibilities; required before National Lifeguard.
  4. Standard First Aid with CPR C (13+) – full first aid and CPR course, required for National Lifeguard.
  5. Assistant Instructor (14+) – introduction to teaching; prepares you to help certified instructors.
  6. Swim Instructor (15+) – qualify to teach swimming lessons.
  7. National Lifeguard (15+) – highest award; qualifies you to work as a lifeguard.

We require government-issued photo ID for leadership courses. Bring it on the first day of class.

Get certified

To work as a lifeguard or instructor with the City of Waterloo, you must have:

  • National Lifeguard certification
  • Swim Instructor certification
  • Lifesaving Instructor certification
  • LSS Standard First Aid and CPR C

Additional requirements:

  • current Police Vulnerable Sector Check
  • fitness level maintained to Lifesaving Society standards
  • strong teamwork, safety and customer service skills

Renew certifications

Renew your certifications before they expire:

Apply for to be a lifeguard or instructor

We recruit throughout the year. Check our current job postings and apply when a position is listed:

  • submit your resume and cover letter online
  • include copies of your current swim certifications
  • if you don’t hear back within 6 months, you are welcome to reapply

If you have any questions about the application or hiring process, email swim@waterloo.ca.

Check current opportunities

Learn about the Lifesaving Society

The Lifesaving Society sets the standards for lifeguards and instructors in Ontario.