Become a Lifeguard

Mesquite Lifeguards

The Mesquite Parks and Recreation Department is  CURRENTLY hiring lifeguards for Summer 2026. 



Want to become a Lifeguard?

Check out the information below to learn how to become a member of our Aquatics Team!

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More about the position

  • Lifeguard Certification paid for by completing and passing the class.  ($250 value)
  • Starting pay is $15.00 per hour for a first-year guard. *Pay increases with every year of experience, up to four years
  • Promotional opportunities to Head Guard and Pool Supervisor available 
  • Must be a minimum of 16 years of age
  • Must have obtained or be able to obtain appropriate Lifeguard Training Certification through the American Red Cross.

How do I become certified? 

City of Mesquite  will be hosting Lifeguard Classes in April, May and June. 

Click on this link to view or sign up for classes https://secure.rec1.com/TX/mesquite-tx/catalog

All Lifeguards must be certified with the newest R.24 version through the American Red Cross.  

Enrollment into the Lifeguard course is strictly limited to those who can successfully complete the following prerequisite swimming skills:

  • Jump into deep water and swim 150 yards.  Stop tread water for 2 minutes then swim another 50 yards.  (can use freestyle or breaststroke, no sidestroke or backstroke)
  • Treading Water must be completed without the use of hands.
  • Complete a timed event within 1 minute, 40 seconds
    • Starting in the water, swim 20 yards
    • Surface dive, feet-first or head-first to a depth of 7 to 10 feet to retrieve a 10-pound object
    • Exit the water without using a ladder or steps

The Hiring Process: 

The Aquatics Department will be hosting an on-site Lifeguard Job Fair for anyone interested in becoming a lifeguard this summer! 

During the event, you’ll complete a short interview and hop in the water to demonstrate the prerequisite swimming skills required for the lifeguard training class.

Job Fair 2026

You only need to attend one of the two dates.

Based on the results of your interview and swimming skills evaluation, contingent job offers may be made on-site at the job fair.

Apply online by filling out an application on the City of Mesquite employment page. Qualified applicants will be contacted to set up an in-person interview. Applicants who are offered a contingent offer of employment must pass a drug test, criminal history background check, and social security number verification. For questions about summer aquatic positions, please contact the Parks and Recreation Administration Office at 972-216-6260 or the Human Resources department at 972-216-6218.