Become a Lifeguard This Summer!

City of Knoxville Lifeguard Training
• Train with the City of Knoxville and earn your American Red Cross Lifeguard, First Aid, and CPR/AED certifications.
• Build job skills, work outdoors, and be part of the Knoxville Parks & Recreation team.
• Minimum Age 15 • Free Certification • Summer Job Opportunity

Register for Lifeguard Training 

Apply for a Lifeguard Job

Quick Facts:
• Minimum Age: 15
• Certification: American Red Cross Lifeguard / CPR-PR-AED (valid for 2 years)
• Course Format:  Blended learning (online + in-person)

Why You'll Love Lifeguarding With Us
Lifeguarding is a great first job for people who enjoy swimming, working outdoors, and helping keep their community safe.

• FREE Certifications
Join our team and earn your American Red Cross Lifeguarding certification - for free!
• Flexible Schedule!
Great for balancing schools, camps, sports, and vacations.
• Multiple Pool Locations
Positions available at several City of Knoxville pool locations
• Build Life Skills
Leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving.
• Work Outdoors
Spend your summer at the pool instead of stuck inside
• Not Just a Summer Job
Many staff work with us for multiple season and year-round at indoor pools.
• Grow With Us
Stay with our team and earn the chance to become a Water Safety Instructor or Lifeguard Instructor - for free!

SIGN UP NOW!
Don't miss your chance to join our team. Secure your spot in a course before they fill up!
Click here for more information and to register.

Click here to apply for a job with the City of Knoxville!

What It's Like to Work as a Knoxville Lifeguard
      

Swim Test Overview
All participants must pass a Red Cross swim pre-test at the start of the course.  Skills include:
• Swim 150 yards continuously
• Tread water 2 minutes using legs only
• Swim 50 additional yards
• Retrieve a weighted object from the pool bottom

Not sure about the swim test?
• Attend a FREE practice session before registering.
• Contact us to schedule 
Call 865-525-9080 or email [email protected]

Course Format
This course includes:
• 19-21 hours of in-person training
• 7-9 hours of online coursework
• Additional course details and preparation materials are sent after registration.

Upcoming Courses (Spring 2026)
• Course 1 - $160 - April 17-19
• Course 2 - $165 - April 24-26
• Course 3 - $170 - May 1-3
• Course 4 - $175 - May 8-10
Click here for more information and to register.

Course Schedule: 
Friday 5pm-9pm | Saturday 9am-6pm | Sunday 10am-6pm
Students must attend all days and times.

Work as a Knoxville Lifeguard
• After certification, participants may apply to work at City of Knoxville pools
• Seasonal positions are available at multiple locations across the city

Contact:
Questions about lifeguard training?  What to schedule practice time?
Phone: 865-525-9080
Email:  [email protected]