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Lifeguard Staff

Role summary:
A Lifeguard on Royal Caribbean is responsible for the safety of guests and crew around pool and aquatic facilities. The role requires constant surveillance, rapid response to emergencies, first aid and CPR/AED administration, enforcement of pool rules, and support for poolside guest activities. The Lifeguard helps maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming pool environment that aligns with Royal Caribbean safety standards and guest service values.

Key responsibilities:

• Maintain continuous visual surveillance of pool and surrounding areas; respond immediately to emergencies and perform water rescues as trained.
• Provide first aid and CPR/AED care and coordinate with medical staff as needed; operate emergency equipment (rescue tubes, life rings, reaching poles, etc.).
• Enforce pool rules and safety procedures; manage guest conduct, assist parents/guardians with children, and prevent risky behavior around water.
• Conduct pre-shift safety checks of pool area, equipment, lifebuoys, safety signage, and rescue gear; report hazards or equipment failures.
• Assist with guest safety briefings, poolside demonstrations, and supervised water activities as directed by management.
• Maintain pool area cleanliness and order; monitor chemical balance and cleanliness in cooperation with the facilities or housekeeping teams as required.
• Document incidents, near-misses, and maintenance or safety issue reports; follow up on corrective actions as instructed.
• Support poolside events and activities; provide information to guests about pool rules, schedules, and safety considerations.
• Collaborate with Pool Maintenance, Guest Services, Medical, and other departments to ensure seamless and safe guest experiences.
• Participate in shipboard safety drills and training to maintain certification and readiness.
• Uphold Royal Caribbean brand standards for safety, service, and guest satisfaction.

Required qualifications and experience:

• Current professional lifeguard certification from a recognized authority (examples: American Red Cross, YMCA, SLSA or equivalent) with up-to-date First Aid and CPR/AED for the professional rescuer.
• STCW safety training (Basic Safety Training) or as required by flag/state; medical fitness certificate suitable for seafaring work.
• Ability to swim proficiently and pass a swimming competency test.
• English proficiency; additional languages are a plus.
• Prior lifeguard or pool supervisory experience preferred but not always required.

Recommended skills and competencies:

• Strong swimming endurance, excellent observation skills, and decisive, calm decision-making under pressure.
• Excellent guest service orientation and communication skills; ability to de-escalate situations calmly.
• Physical fitness and stamina; ability to lift, assist guests, and perform rescues as needed.
• Knowledge of basic first aid and emergency response procedures; willingness to participate in ongoing training.
• Team player with reliability, punctuality, and strict adherence to safety procedures.
• Basic understanding of pool maintenance and chemical safety is a plus.

Working conditions:

• Outdoor pool deck environment exposed to sun, heat, humidity, wind, and weather changes; may work evenings, weekends, and port calls.
• Exposure to chlorine, chemical odors, water splashes, and noisy environments; slippery surfaces.
• Irregular or extended hours during pool events or peak guest periods; capable of standing for long periods and performing water rescue tasks.
• Working around guests of all ages; interacting in a high-visibility, guest-facing role.

Reporting relationships: Reports to Lifeguard Supervisor or Safety & Security Manager; coordinates with Pool Maintenance, Guest Services, Medical, and Security as required.