Lifeguard Sr. Lead, Lifeguard Asst. Lead, Lifeguard Jr. Program Coord, Lifeguard Asst. Jr Coord.
City of Port HuenemeDefinition of Position
Lifeguard Senior Lead $23.00- 30.01
Lifeguard Assistant Lead $21.00 -27.40
Lifeguard Junior Program Coordinator$23.00- 30.01
Lifeguard Assistant Junior Coordinator $21.00-27.40
*Any new or returning applicant who has successfully completed a USLA standardized lifeguard academy or has completed an EMT program successfully will be eligible for an adjustment in compensation.
All new hires will be required to attend the 40 hour USLA academy scheduled for May 24th, 25th, 30th, 31st and June 1st, 6th, and 7th.All returning Lifeguards will be required to attend the First Aid Training scheduled for Monday, June 16th & Tuesday, June 17th.
New hires will be required to complete all pre-employment requirements prior to the Lifeguard Academy scheduled for May 24, 2026. Failure to complete these requirements will result in disqualification from the employment process, in which the conditional offer will then be rescinded.
Lifeguard - Senior Lead - Will work under the direction of the Recreation and Ocean Safety Supervisor, performs all ocean lifeguard functions, in maintaining watch of the ocean and beach areas, providing aid and/or assistance as necessary, as well as serving as an operational lead and incident command role to ocean lifeguards. Performs related work as required.
Lifeguard - Assistant Lead - Will work under the direction of the Recreation and Ocean Safety Supervisor, performs all ocean lifeguard functions, in maintaining watch of the ocean and beach areas and providing aid and/or assistance as necessary, as well as assist the Senior Lead Lifeguard with training, and oversight of the day-to-day work of lifeguards. Maybe assigned to provide daily lead work on a particular shift for the Senior Lead Lifeguard. Performs related work as required.
Lifeguard - Junior Program Coordinator - Will work under the direct supervision of the Recreation and Ocean Safety Supervisor, coordinating and administrating the Junior Lifeguard Program, as well as training and supervising junior lifeguard staff. Performs related work as required.
Lifeguard - Assistant Junior Coordinator - Will work under the direct supervision of the Recreation and Ocean Safety Supervisor with oversight, assisting and implementing the Junior Lifeguard Program, as well as training and leading Junior Lifeguard Program staff. Performs related work as required.
In the Supplemental Questions you will be asked to identify your first choice of Lifeguard positions. If you are interested in any additional positions, please identify your second choice for the above listed positions. Only select position(s) for which you are interested in and qualify for.
This recruitment will fill current vacancies and create eligibility lists.
Applications will be reviewed as submitted. All supervisory positions (Senior Lead, Assistant Lead, Jr. Lifeguard Program Coordinator, and Assistant Jr. Lifeguard Coordinator) will be interviewed immediately after swim on March 8, 2026.- Lifeguard Senior Lead: Must be willing and available to work 4-5 shifts per week or the equivalent 32-40 hours on various shifts over different days/times (Monday through Sunday) of different lengths over the summer seasonal beach operation.
- Lifeguard Assistant Lead: Must be willing and available to work 3-5 shifts per week or the equivalent 24-40 hours on various shifts over different days/times (Monday through Sunday) of different lengths over the summer seasonal beach operation.
- Lifeguard Junior Program Coordinator: Must be willing and available to work 5 shifts per week or the equivalent 40hours (Monday – Friday 8:30-3:00pm during Junior Lifeguard Season). The first session of the Junior Lifeguard program is scheduled to begin on Monday, June 15th (off on 19th); Monday - Friday from June 22nd until July 10th. The second session of the Junior Lifeguard program is scheduled for Monday, July 13th until August 7th.
- Lifeguard Assistant Junior Coordinator: Must be willing and available to work 5 shifts per week or the equivalent 40hours (Monday – Friday 8:30-3:00pm during JG Season). The first session of the Junior Lifeguard program is scheduled to begin on Monday, June 15th (off on 19th); Monday - Friday from June 22nd until July 10th. The second session of the Junior Lifeguard program is scheduled for Monday, July 13th until August 7th.
NEW CANDIDATES who meet minimum qualifications for any of the four positions will be invited to a physical agility swim test scheduled for March 8, 2026. Please mark this date on your calendar.We have scheduled the qualification swim for Sunday, March 8, 2026, at the Hueneme Beach Park, 550 E. Surfside Dr., Port Hueneme. Look for the table at the pier's entrance. If you are under the age of 18, please ensure that a parent or guardian accompanies you on the day of the swim. In addition, please bring a photo ID and arrive by 9:00 am to allow for check in.
ABOUT THE CITY Port Hueneme (pronounced "Wy-nee'mee") is a seaside community in Ventura County, California. Port Hueneme is located 60 miles northwest of Los Angeles and 40 miles south of Santa Barbara. The City's name derives from a Chumash word (Wene'mu) meaning "resting place." Port Hueneme is located halfway between two larger Chumash
settlements, today's Malibu and Ventura.Example of Duties
LIFEGUARD SENIOR LEAD AND LIFEGUARD ASSISTANT LEAD
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
The list of essential functions, as outlined herein, is intended to be representative of the tasks performed within this classification. It is not necessarily descriptive of any one position in the class. The omission of an essential function does not preclude management from assigning duties not listed herein if such functions are a logical assignment to the position.
BOTH POSITIONS: Lifeguard Senior Lead and Lifeguard Assistant Lead
*Aids and/or rescues individuals in need of assistance; administers CPR and/or first aid, if necessary.
*Patrols beach and enforces beach regulations. Makes safety decisions. Initiates safety contracts with the public.
*Oversees and regulates the use of beach areas; stays aware of surf and weather conditions; advises the staff and public of beach conditions including in-shore holes and rip currents.*Occasionally, supervises swimming activities at the aquatic facility and ensures that policies, guidelines, and safety procedures are followed.
*Performs related duties as assigned.
IN ADDITION to the above listed duties - Lifeguard Assistant Lead
*If assigned by a Senior Lead Lifeguard, opens and closes lifeguard towers and facilities and ensures all equipment is securely stowed at the end of the day.
*Helps to maintain equipment and notifies Senior Lead Lifeguard or supervisor of any general equipment or lifesaving equipment maintenance or replacement needs.
*May be assigned to write reports of injuries and incidents occurring at the beach for staff and or public.
*Based on observations of conditions, the Ocean Lifeguard provides information and consults with the Senior Lead Lifeguard regarding decisions about closing the beach and/or the need for additional staff.
*May be assigned to train lifeguards in the use, operation, and maintenance of lifesaving equipment.
IN ADDITION to the above listed duties - Lifeguard Senior Lead
*Performs day-to-day direction to ocean lifeguards; deploys scheduled staff and makes daily assignments to effectively provide beach coverage. Answers questions from staff, troubleshoots problems and provides assistance as necessary to assigned staff. Provides input to supervisors, as requested, on the performance of lifeguards.
*Assists in planning and implementing a comprehensive training and physical fitness program for lifeguards. Oversees daily physical training for lifeguard staff.
*Opens and closes lifeguard towers. Opens and closes staff facilities; ensures all equipment is securely stowed at the end of the day.
*Trains lifeguards in the use, operation and maintenance of lifesaving equipment. Monitors condition of all equipment and reports any maintenance/replacement needs to supervisor.
Helps to maintain equipment.
*Writes reports of injuries and incidents for staff and/or public; initiates safety contacts with the public.
*Interacts and coordinates lifeguard activities with other safety service agencies;
*Prepares beach attendance and weekly reports including any incidents, rescues, assists, etc.; submits such required reports to supervisor as requested.
*EMT License, Title 22 or BLS CPR Instructor Certification Highly Desirable
LIFEGUARD JUNIOR PROGRAM COORDINATOR AND LIFEGUARD ASSISTANT JUNIOR COORDINATOR
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The list of essential functions, as outlined herein, is intended to be representative of the tasks performed within this classification. It is not necessarily descriptive of any one position in the class. The omission of an essential function does not preclude management from assigning duties not listed herein if such functions are a logical assignment to the position.
BOTH POSITIONS - Lifeguard Junior Program Coordinator and Lifeguard Assistant Junior Coordinator
*Promotes good sportsmanship, civil discourse, and civic engagement among participants and resolves conflicts, concerns, and participant issues.
*Maintains complete and accurate records of attendance, time reports, safety and incident/accident reports, program activities, progress reports, program evaluations, and meets deadlines, as assigned.
*Issues and accounts for equipment and maintains all supplies in good order.
*Recommends maintenance, repairs and/or replacement of equipment and facilities.
*Reports safety issues or equipment concerns to appropriate City staff members.
*Assesses and implements safety procedures. Provides first aid and seeks emergency assistance as needed.*Occasionally, supervises swimming activities at the aquatic facility and ensures that policies, guidelines, and safety procedures are followed.
*Performs related duties as assigned.
IN ADDITION to the above listed duties - Lifeguard Junior Program Coordinator
*Coordinates and supervises assigned summer junior lifeguard program staff and aides. Schedules working hours and assignments for junior lifeguard program staff.
*Implements a physical fitness program for junior lifeguards.
*In cooperation and consultation with the Recreation and Ocean Safety Supervisor, plans and carries out junior lifeguard programs and training sessions. Leads group exercise class providing proper form and technique for all classes.
*Teaches and oversees instructors who teach ocean rescue, first aid, and surfing to boys and
girls, ages 9 to 16 years of age. Expected to teach ocean rescue, first aid, and surfing alongside the Instructors, including the setting up and breaking down of equipment.
*Coordinates the planning and implementing of special events, field trips, and activities for junior lifeguard program participants. Provides supervision and guidance to participants. Schedules activities and programs and arranges for facilities, supplies, materials, and equipment.
IN ADDITION to the above listed duties - Lifeguard Assistant Junior Coordinator
*Leads summer junior lifeguard program staff and aides as assigned. As assigned, assists with scheduling working hours and assignments for junior lifeguard program staff.
*Assists Junior Lifeguard Program Coordinator to implement a physical fitness program for junior lifeguards.
*In cooperation and consultation with the Junior Lifeguard Program Coordinator, assists in planning and carrying out junior lifeguard programs and training sessions. Leads group exercise class providing proper form and technique for all classes.
*Assists Junior Lifeguard Program Coordinator to teach and oversees instructors who teach ocean rescue, first aid, and surfing to boys and girls, ages 9 to 16 years of age.
*Teaches ocean rescue, first aid, and surfing along with Instructors; including the setting up and breaking down of equipment.
*May be assigned to plan and implement special events, field trips, and activities for junior lifeguard program participants. Provides supervision and guidance to participants. Schedules activities and programs and arranges for facilities, supplies,
materials, and equipment.Typical Qualifications
LIFEGUARD SENIOR LEAD - MINIMUM QUALIFICATION REQUIRMENTS
Three summer seasons or 2,000 hours of experience as an ocean lifeguard, and six months experience as a lead worker or team leader that involved scheduling, deployment and assigning work to others. Physical ability to swim 500 meters in 10 minutes or less and complete a continuous Run, Swim, Run test consisting of a 200 meter run, then a 400 meter swim and a final 200 meter run.
LIFEGUARD ASSISTANT LEAD - MINIMUM QUALIFICATION REQUIRMENTS
Two summer seasons or 1,000 hours of experience as an ocean lifeguard.
Physical ability to swim 500 meters in 10 minutes or less and complete a continuous Run, Swim, Run test consisting of a 200 meter run, then a 400 meter swim and a final 200 meter run.
LIFEGUARD JUNIOR PROGRAM COORDINATOR - MINIMUM QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
Three summer seasons or 2,000 hours of experience as an ocean lifeguard, and six months experience as a lead worker or team leader that involved scheduling, deployment and assigning work to others. Physical ability to swim 500 meters in 10 minutes or less and complete a continuous Run, Swim, Run test consisting of a 200 meter run, then a 400 meter swim and a final 200 meter run.
LIFEGUARD ASSISTANT JUNIOR COORDINATOR - MINIMUM QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
Two summer seasons or 1,000 hours of experience as an ocean lifeguard and one season or three months providing lifeguard training and instruction. Physical ability to swim 500 meters in 10 minutes or less and complete a continuous Run, Swim, Run test consisting of a 200 meter run, then a 400 meter swim and a final 200 meter run.
ALL POSITIONS: Licenses, Certificates, and Special Requirements:
Be a minimum of 16 years of age by the date of application.Additionally:
- Valid California Driver License
- Continued employment with the City of Port Hueneme requires successful completion of the COPH internal USLA standardized academy
- CPR Certification (will be provided)
- First Aid Certification (will be provided)
- Mandated Reporter Training (will be provided)
*Knowledge of basic principles and techniques of ocean lifeguarding and ocean and beach safety.
*Knowledge of radio communications procedures, lifesaving equipment, maintenance of equipment and inventory control.
*Ability to learn and administer principles and techniques of lifeguarding; perform difficult rescues in rough surf.
*Ability to effectively determine safe and unsafe surfing and swimming conditions and effectively communicate such conditions to others.
*Ability to swim 500 meters in 10 minutes or less.
*Ability to effectively operate lifesaving equipment, vehicles, radio equipment; ability to work effectively as an individual and as a member of a team.
*Ability to respond and perform quickly and exercise independent judgment in emergency situations.
*Ability to perform and keep a clear head in emergency situations.
*Ability to perform duties effectively and efficiently.
*Ability to deal tactfully and work effectively with others including the public, supervisors, and co-workers.
In Addition to the above listed NECESSARY KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES, the Lifeguard Senior Lead and Lifeguard Junior Program Coordinator must have:
*Ability to develop training and fitness programs.
*Ability to be a leader and make confident, prompt decisions.
*Knowledge of basic principles and leading and directing staff.
*Ability to lead and direct other staff in daily activities and assignments
PHYSICAL AND MENTAL DEMANDS
The physical and mental demands described here are representative of those that must be met by employees to successfully perform the essential functions of these classes. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Physical Ability: Tasks involve the regular and, at times, sustained performance of moderately physically demanding work, typically involving some combination of walking, running, swimming, and that may involve the lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling of heavy to moderately heavy objects, materials or people (20-100+pounds). Ability to swim 500 meters in 10 minutes or less.
Sensory Requirements: Tasks require oral communications ability and visual perception and discrimination. Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate sounds, and depths.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Tasks are regularly performed with exposure to adverse environmental conditions, such as dirt, dust, pollen, wetness, humidity, rain, temperature and noise extremes, disease, or pathogenic substances.Supplemental Information
APPLICATION PROCESS AND SELECTION PROCEDURE
Applications must be submitted on-line through the City's applicant tracking system. Materials must be complete and clearly indicate the candidate meets the minimum qualifications. All statements made on the application, resume, and supplemental materials are subject to verification. False statements may be cause for immediate disqualification, removal from eligibility list, or discharge from employment.
The deadline to apply is April 8, 2026.
Examination Process:
As applications are submitted, the applications will be screened in relation to the criteria indicated in this announcement. Incomplete, late, emailed, and faxed applications are not accepted. If you require assistance in completing the online application, please contact Human Resources at JLapham@ci.porthueneme.ca.us. Certificates, and any other materials must be uploaded with your application. If you experience difficulties uploading your materials, please contact Hr@ci.port-hueneme.ca.us. Additional inquiries about the position may be directed to Jason Johnson at jjohnson@ci.port-hueneme.ca.us.
Part I: Application Appraisal– (Pass/Fail) All completed applications and supplemental questionnaires will be reviewed, for each applicant's ability to meet the minimum work experience, training, and education qualifications.
Part II: Swimming Skills Assessment – (Pass/Fail) Candidates who pass the Application Appraisal will be invited to the swimming skills assessment. The swimming skills assessment will consist of swimming 500 meters in 10 minutes or less and complete a continuous Run, Swim, Run test consisting of a 200 meter run, then a 400 meter swim and a final 200 meter run meeting USLA Standards.
Part III: Oral Interview Exam – Applicants will be required to participate in the oral exam process.
Applicants may be selected for consideration to participate in an oral appraisal interview to evaluate training, experience, and other job-related qualifications for the position.
All applicants successful in the background investigation screening and the hiring interview will be required to take and pass a City-sponsored medical examination, drug and alcohol screening (including cannabis) following a conditional offer of
employment and prior to appointment.
All communication and notices will be sent via e-mail.
All employment offers made by the City are contingent upon establishing proof of a prospective candidate's legal authorization to work in the United States and successfully passing all components of the pre-employment process, such as: fingerprint criminal history check, post-offer drug test, and post-offer medical examination, the cost of which will be borne by the City. EOE/ADA
On the first day of employment, new employees must provide proof of citizenship or documentation of legal right to work in the United States in compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986.
Additional inquiries about the position may be directed to Jason Johnson at jjohnson@ci.port-hueneme.ca.us. The City of Port Hueneme is not responsible for failure of internet forms or email in submitting your application. Candidates with a disability who may require special assistance in any phase of the application or selection process should advise Human Resources by emailing Hr@ci.port-hueneme.ca.us.
The City of Port Hueneme is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes applications from all qualified applicants. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, marital status, medical condition or disability