Becoming a lifeguard isn’t just for teens, it's for people of all ages!
Make an investment in yourself and your future with our lifeguard certification program. The Town of Golden provides the highest standards of excellence in training and instruction through affordable, hands-on courses. Here's why you should jump into a career at the pool:
✔ Have a rewarding job that offers great pay and flexible hours;
✔ Join a positive work environment;
✔ Be part of an awesome team;
✔ Learn valuable lifelong skills;
✔ Make a difference and an impact on the lives of others and your community; and
✔ Have FUN!
Whether you’ve been certified in the past or not, we offer all of the courses you need to become a lifeguard, right here in Golden!
Apply to become a lifeguard today!
Have a question about becoming a lifeguard?
Send an email to chat with one of or Recreation Services Coordinators.
Financial assistance: Course fee financial assistance is available for successful candidates. For more information email us
2023 Aquatic Leadership and First Aid Courses
Registration is now LIVE for all of our aquatic leadership courses: Bronze Medallion, Bronze Cross, Standard First Aid & CPR C, National Lifeguard, and Swim Instructor! Register early to guarantee your spot.
Ready, Set, Guard! 2023 Program
The Ready, Set, Guard Program helps you obtain lifeguard and instructor training, and provides you with the opportunity to work as a lifeguard at the Golden Swimming Pool.
About the program:
The program takes place over three months and covers five courses: Bronze Medallion, Bronze Cross, Standard First Aid/CPR C, and National Lifeguard. Once you have successfully completed the courses you will be offered a position as a lifeguard with the Town of Golden. A condition of employment is to complete the Lifesaving Society Swim Instructor certification course, costs associated with this course will be covered by the Town of Golden.
Who can apply?
To participate in the lifeguard training program applicants must be a minimum of 16 years of age and be a permanent resident of the community, commit to the training courses and have availability to work.
Up to 16 participants will be accepted into the program per season.
How to apply:
- Check out the "Aquatic Worker" job posting.
- Submit your resume and cover letter before April 1, 2023:
- By email to Chelsey Keefer, Recreation Coordinator - Aquatics Lead to chelsey.keefer@golden.ca with the subject line "Ready, Set, Guard!"
- Drop it off at the Rec Plex or Arena.
Deadline to apply: April 1, 2023
If selected, you will be contacted for an interview. A swim evaluation may be required to determine the likelihood of success in the program.
How much does the program cost?
There is a 50% registration fee for each reimbursable course plus the cost of any required manual/equipment. The registration fees will be reimbursed after successful completion of probation, or the first week of September. The probation period is 200 hours worked or one full pool season at the Golden Swimming Pool, whichever comes first. Conditions may apply.
| Course | Program Cost | Reimbursable Registration Fee | Program Cost once you've worked 200 hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bronze Medallion | $160 | Prerequisite course, not eligible for reimbursement | |
| Bronze Cross | $160 | Prerequisite course, not eligible for reimbursement | |
| Standard First Aid & CPR | $200 | $100 | FREE |
| National Lifeguard- Pool | $400 | $200 | FREE |
| Swim Instructor | $400 | $200 | FREE |
What is the time commitment?
From May to July 2023 there is a total of approximately 150 training hours, after school/evenings and on weekends. Our courses are taught by trained professionals who can help you gain the skills and confidence necessary for providing care and instruction when it’s needed most. 100% attendance is required.
High School Credits:
High school students can earn credit towards graduation while working towards their first career. This program recognizes the 100+ hours of education and training for Lifesaving Society National Lifeguard starting at Bronze Medallion.
| Course | High School Credits |
|---|---|
| Bronze Cross | 2 credits for Grade 11 |
| Bronze Cross & Swim Instructor | 3 credits for Grade 11 |
| National Lifeguard | 2 credits for Grade 12 |
What happens if I get accepted into the program?
Participants will receive an admission letter welcoming them to the program and further details on the required courses. Depending on whether or not the participant has relevant certifications already or is starting from the beginning, they would follow the progression chart below:
- Bronze Medallion
- Bronze Cross
- Standard First Aid & CPR
- National Lifeguard
- Swim Instructor
- START WORKING AS A LIFEGUARD!