Summer is a time of sun, sand, and sea, where lifeguards ensure the safety of beachgoers and pool enthusiasts. But as the summer winds down, what’s next for those who have recently earned their lifeguard certification or are considering lifeguard training in Florida?

Fortunately, the skills you’ve gained can open doors to a wide range of exciting career opportunities beyond the poolside. In this article, we’ll explore various paths you can take after summer with your certification.

1. Water Safety Instructor

Transitioning into a water safety instructor role is a natural progression for certified lifeguards. You’ll play a crucial role in teaching people of all ages how to swim and stay safe in aquatic environments. Your lifeguard training in Florida equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively communicate water safety techniques and swimming fundamentals.

2. Aquatic Facility Manager

If you want to stay close to the water, consider becoming an aquatic facility manager. These professionals oversee the day-to-day operations of pools, water parks, or aquatic centers. Your certification as a lifeguard provides a solid foundation for understanding safety protocols and emergency procedures, making you a strong candidate for this role.

3. Coast Guard Auxiliary

For those with a love for the open sea, the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary offers opportunities for certified lifeguards to contribute to maritime safety. As a volunteer organization, the Coast Guard Auxiliary welcomes individuals with lifeguard training and skills to assist in various capacities, such as conducting safety inspections, providing public education, and supporting search and rescue missions.

4. Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

The skills you’ve acquired during your lifeguard course aren’t limited to water-related emergencies. They can also be applied on land as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). EMTs provide critical pre-hospital care to individuals in medical emergencies. Your lifeguard certification’s emphasis on first aid and CPR makes you a valuable asset in this profession.

5. Physical Education Teacher

If you’re passionate about fitness and education, consider a career as a physical education teacher. Certification as a lifeguard demonstrates your commitment to safety and your ability to impart essential life-saving skills. This background can make you an attractive candidate for teaching positions in schools or community centers, helping students develop their swimming abilities and understanding of water safety.

6. Event Lifeguard

Events like triathlons, marathons, and water sports competitions often require trained lifeguards. You can leverage your certification as a lifeguard to work at these events, ensuring the safety of participants and spectators alike. This role allows you to enjoy the excitement of various sporting events while keeping your skills sharp.

7. Cruise Ship Staff

Cruise ships offer a unique employment opportunity for lifeguard-certified individuals. These floating resorts often have multiple pools and water attractions, requiring the presence of skilled lifeguards to ensure guest safety. Working on a cruise ship allows you to travel the world while putting your lifeguard certification to good use.

8. Beach Patrol Officer

If you thrive in the beach environment, consider becoming a beach patrol officer. Beach patrol officers are responsible for maintaining safety along the shoreline, responding to water-related emergencies, and educating beachgoers about potential hazards. Your certification as a lifeguard is a valuable credential in this field.

9. Camp Counselor

Many summer camps include aquatic activities as part of their programs. With your certification as a lifeguard, you can become a camp counselor, leading water-based activities and ensuring the safety of campers. This role combines your love for the outdoors with your commitment to keeping others safe around water.

10. Search and Rescue Team Member

Search and rescue teams often require strong swimmers and individuals with water safety expertise. Your lifeguard courses can open doors to becoming a search and rescue team member. You can assist in water-based rescue operations during emergencies and natural disasters.

11. Corporate Health and Safety Consultant

Corporate organizations often prioritize the health and safety of their employees. With your certification, you can pursue a career as a health and safety consultant, specializing in aquatic safety. You’ll be responsible for evaluating and implementing safety measures in corporate environments that involve water, such as on-site swimming pools or recreational facilities.

12. Lifeguard Instructor

If you’ve enjoyed your certification as a lifeguard journey, consider becoming a lifeguard instructor yourself. You can teach lifeguard classes, and help others obtain their lifeguard certification. Becoming an instructor not only allows you to share your expertise but also provides a stable source of income throughout the year.

Conclusion

As the summer season transitions into cooler months, your certification as a lifeguard remains a valuable asset that can open doors to various alternative job opportunities. Your lifeguard training equips you with skills that extend far beyond the summer season, whether you:

• Choose to become a water safety instructor
• Pursue a career in emergency medical services
• Explore the world as a cruise ship staff member

So, dive into these exciting career paths, and remember that the American Lifeguard Association (ALA) is a valuable resource to further develop your expertise and knowledge in water safety. Your future beyond the lifeguard stand is full of possibilities.