2024 APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN!
2024 VBLS
First-Year Lifeguard
A VBLS First-Year Lifeguard has not worked for VBLS in the past, and will be considered a member of the VBLS class of 2024.
2024 VBLS Recurrent (Returning) Lifeguard
A VBLS Recurrent Lifeguard applicant has completed VBLS training and worked for VBLS a minimum of one summer.
2024 VBLS
Supervisor
A VBLS Supervisor is a management level position for the Virginia Beach Lifesaving Service, Inc.
SCROLL FOR 2024 INCENTIVES AND FAQS
Apply
Once your application is reviewed and accepted, you will be sent an email with dates to sign up for the swim test. 500 meters under 10 minutes.
train
After passing the swim test, you will be given free CPR, First Aid, and Ocean Rescue training. Flexible and multiple dates available.
get mentored
When training is complete, you will be put on stand with a seniored guard for mentoring and exposure to the beach.
Get to work!
You're now a USLA certified lifeguard! It's time to get to work and have the best Summer ever!!
Recruiting Incentive
As an incentive for returning guards to recruit new guards; if you recruit someone and they work 275+ hours, the recruiter will earn 50¢ on the hour that their recruited new hire works.
Ex: If Sally recruits Jane as a new hire, and Jane works 300 hours, Sally will recieve $150 at the end of the year!
Work Agreement Incentive
At the beginning of the Summer, all guards (first year & recurrent) will be offered an incentive agreement to earn bonus money towards hours worked throughout the summer. The incentive agreement will stipulate your start date and end date on the schedule based on your academic commitments. If you sign and work to the agreed end of the schedule, you will receive the following:
Work Hours / Bonus Rate / Amount
275 - 349 hours / $.50 on the hour / $137.50 - $174.50
350 - 399 hours / $.75 on the hour / $262.50 - $299.25
400 or more hours / $1.00 on the hour / $400 or more!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does ocean rescue lifeguard training cost?
It’s FREE! All new guards will be given in-house CPR, First Aid, and Surf Rescue training. Recurrent guards are required to keep their First Aid and CPR certifications up-to-date which can be done in-house for free as well! Surf Rescue training is only required your first year working.
Do you get paid for training?
No. But you don’t have to pay for training!
How much do I get paid?
Starting guard pay is $17.25! Pay increases come with lifetime hours worked.
How does training work?
Once you have passed the swim test, you will be notified with training opportunities you can sign up for. Once you (new hires) have completed CPR, First Aid, and Surf Rescue training, you will be put on stand with a seniored guard to mentor you for ~8 hours. All in all, new hire training is around 40 hours over 5 days. These days do not have to be consecutive. There are many training classes avaiable that are flexible with most schedules. The sooner you complete training, the sooner you can get to work!
How often do I have to work?
There is no set schedule for how many days a week over the Summer but the more the better! There are incentives to work more throughout the Summer (see below) and later into the season. We ask you to give as much availability as you can but that does not necessarily mean you will work every day you are available!
How old do I have to be?
You must be 16 years old to work on the beach.
Join our Team - Become a VBLS Lifeguard!
Seasonal Job Opportunities
The 2024 Application process will open on JANUARY 15, 2024! . Applications will be open long enough to ensure full coverage of the 2024 Summer Season. GUARDS will be active on stands from May 11, thru September 15. Special consideration will be made for those returning who can start early and anyone who will be available through September 17.
PLEASE BE SURE TO LOOK AT MINIMUM STANDARDS FOR SUPERVISORS BEFORE APPLYING. WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU AT SWIM TESTING IN THE NEAR FUTURE
Mission
To educate and advise on ocean safety, provide elite surf rescue and medical aid in emergency situations, and promote a positive and enjoyable experience for all citizens and visitors on the Virginia Beach oceanfront.
Vision
VBLS is a respected leader in local, regional and national ocean rescue communities; trusted by the citizens of Virginia Beach to provide the highest quality of service up to and beyond its 100th year.
Values
-
Quality Customer Service
-
Volunteerism
-
Teamwork
-
Leadership and Learning
-
Integrity
-
Commitment
-
Respect