Become a Lifeguard
Seaside Fire & Rescue has one of the few beach lifeguard programs on the northwestern coast line. We have a seasonal hiring process where we look for canidates with strong aquatic backgrounds (swimming, surfing, ect.) to provide quick response along Seaside's shoreline.
The Recruitment Process
How to Become a Beach Lifeguard
All applicants will be required to meet the following:
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Valid Oregon Drivers License
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Must be 17 Years of age by July 1, 2024
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Pass drug screening
STEP 1
Train For Swim Testing
Lifeguards are held to USLA standards and are required to pass a 550 yd. pool swim, 400 yd. buddy tow, Dive brick retrieval, and water tread. Lifeguards are also required to pass an ocean confidence swim consisting of around a 500 yd. swim through the surf and back to the beach. This testing is challenging and it is recommended by current lifeguards to swim around 2-3 days a week during the months leading up to the testing dates. Ocean swimming is different than pool swimming so it is encouraged to practice swims in the ocean as well. When training in the ocean be aware of ocean conditions and possible hazards to swimmers.
Apply to become a Lifeguard
Applications are open Feb. 28. Lifeguard applications are completed through cityofseaside.us (click here).
If you are interested in becoming a lifeguard and would like us to reach out when applications are open then fill out the form below.
STEP 2
STEP 3
Testing & Interviews
Lifeguards are held to USLA standards and are required to pass a 550 yd. pool swim, 400 yd. buddy tow, Dive brick retrieval, and water tread. Lifeguards are also required to pass an ocean confidence swim consisting of around a 500 yd. swim through the surf and back to the beach. This testing is challenging and it is recommended by current lifeguards to swim around 2-3 days a week during the months leading up to the testing dates. Ocean swimming is different than pool swimming so it is encouraged to practice swims in the ocean as well. When training in the ocean be aware of ocean conditions and possible hazards to swimmers.
Background Check & Drug Screening
Candidates will be required to pass a background check and drug screening in order to continue through the hiring process.
STEP 4
STEP 5
Complete the Academy
Candidates who pass the previous steps will be invited to a 40 hour USLA based training academy. This academy usually takes place in the late weekends of May. During this academy candidates are taught the basics of lifeguarding with an emphasis on ocean rescue. Candidates will be paid during their time in the training academy.
Become a Beach Lifeguard
After completing the training academy you are now qualified to become a Seaside Fire and Rescue Beach Lifeguard. You have the option to become a part time or full time employee. Lifeguards season runs from Labor Day weekend until Memorial Day weekend. Staffing is usually 3 guards during the week, and 4-5 guards on weekends. Staffing may increase during peak summer days and events.
