AusLeisure

With the operators of aquatic centres and seasonal swimming pools across Australia looking to fill job vacancies for summer, Royal Life Saving Society Australia is highlighting roles in the sector - including lifeguards, swim instructors, customer service officers and aqua exercise instructors - pointing out that “these roles not only keep our community safe but also help you build skills that are transferrable to many different careers”.

Royal Life Saving point to a range of reasons to “work at your local pool”, explaining on its website that “summer is almost here and local pools are on the lookout for enthusiastic people to join their teams.

“Whether you’re just finishing school or looking for your first job, working in the aquatic industry is a fantastic opportunity to develop career skills that go far beyond the pool deck.”

It cites a range of reasons to do so:

A Fun and Active Environment: Working at a pool or aquatic centre means spending your days in a lively and energetic atmosphere. For those who enjoy being active, engaging with the community, and working as part of a team, the aquatic industry offers an ideal work environment.

Variety of Roles: Whether you enjoy being active, helping people, or taking charge, the aquatic industry has a role for you. Lifeguards ensure everyone's safety; swim teachers help children and adults learn vital skills; aqua exercise instructors make health and fitness fun; and customer service officers keep things running smoothly. Each role is crucial in keeping pools safe and enjoyable places for everyone.

Flexibility: Whether you are a student, a parent, or someone looking for part-time work, the aquatic industry provides flexible work options. Many positions offer the chance to work during weekends, mornings, evenings, or holidays, making it easier to balance work with other commitments.

Career Skills That Take You Further: Lifeguarding doesn’t just prepare you for a job at the pool - it can lead to a career in healthcare or emergency services. Lifeguards are trained in first aid, CPR, and incident management, skills that are directly transferrable to roles in paramedicine, nursing, and law enforcement. Similarly, teaching swimming can provide a strong foundation for future careers in education, helping to develop communication, leadership, and instructional skills.

Making a Difference: One of the most rewarding aspects of working in the aquatic industry is the positive impact you can have on others. Aquatic facilities are often at the heart of a community, where people come together for fitness, fun and connection. Additionally, as a swim teacher, you help children and adults gain confidence in the water, potentially saving lives. As a lifeguard or duty manager, you are at the forefront of ensuring safety at our pools, playing a vital role in preventing drowning incidents. As an aqua exercise instructor you build a community of participants.

Explore Your Career Pathways
Royal Life Saving add “for those looking to grow in the industry, there are plenty of career advancement opportunities. From starting out as a swim teacher or lifeguard, you can move into roles like aquatic duty manager, aquatic education coordinator or even higher-level management.

“The National Aquatic Workforce Framework highlights these pathways, showing how you can take on more responsibility and advance your career.”

They add “don’t wait - jump into your local pool’s team and start building skills for your future today. For more information, visit your local council’s website or the websites of major operators like Belgravia Leisure, Aligned Leisure, the Y, City Venue Management and/or BlueFit.”

Image credit: Royal Life Saving.

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