Beginning any new career can seem intimidating, but rest assured the American Lifeguard Association is here to help launch your journey as a lifeguard. This important job provides fulfilling work while allowing you to utilize valuable skills that can last a lifetime.
Let ALA be your guide as you gain certification and start saving lives in just a few short months. From certification courses to employment listings, here are the top ten things to know about beginning your career with a lifeguard certificate from us:
Introductory Lifeguard Course
Our initial course will provide 40 hours of training over 2 weeks to learn essential water rescue and first aid skills from our expert instructors. Ideal for beginners with little to no experience.
Advanced Open Water Lifeguard Certification
For those with an entry level certificate who wish to work at beaches and oceanfront pools, this intensive 80-hour program covers advanced aquatic rescues including spinal injury management.
Year-Round Training Opportunities
Maintain your qualifications by attending our online seminars and in-person skill sessions offered regularly near all major metropolitan areas. Continuing education is a must for all lifeguard certificate.
Specialized Certifications
Additionally, certify in areas like pool management, wilderness response, or aquatic therapy to broaden your job opportunities at community centers and camp programs.
Employment Placement Assistance
Our network of partner facilities relies on ALA to supply certified guards each season. We’ll help connect you to job listings matching your location and interests.
Scholarships Available
For those committed to serving in public safety roles, we award a variety of merit-based scholarships up to full course cost to help defray expenses.
Work While You Learn
Many surrounding pools and recreation departments are happy to employ cadets still in certification programs, allowing valuable early experience.
Easy Online Registration
Browse our nationwide schedule, select programs by date and location, and enroll with just a few clicks directly through our convenient website portal.
Diverse Career Pathways
While most start as entry-level guards, leadership roles in management, inspection and EMS await those who continue advancing their skills and education.
Lifelong Skills Gained
Even if no longer actively lifeguarding near me, the surveillance skills, quick decision making, and medical training remain applicable to many careers and everyday scenarios.
So whether you are just beginning college or contemplating a new summer gig, let the American Lifeguard Association be your first step towards a rewarding career in public safety. Complete an affordable certification course near you today. Advance your abilities over the years through ALA, and soon you’ll be counted among the ranks of those protecting our communities’ health and wellness through aquatic facility supervision. Start your new career journey as a certified lifeguard—we’ll be here to support you every splash of the way.