Submit an application 

Completed applications can be:

• Emailed: aquatics@tempe.gov
• Dropped off:
  Kiwanis Recreation Center
  6111 S. All America Way
  Tempe, AZ 85281 

Applications will be accepted with, or without, certifications. 

Pick up an application in person or download a PDF application.

Pass a skills test

All applicants must be able to:

• swim 200 yards consistently,
• tread water without hands for two minutes, and
• submerge up to 12 feet to pick up a 10-pound brick.  

Certified applicants must be prepared to demonstrate Lifeguard and CPR skills at the time of the skills test. 

Skills test dates will be determined once an application is received, a manager will call to schedule.

Get certified

Sign up for the Ellis & Associates Lifeguard Certification Course.

Candidates will be given registration information at the conclusion of their skills test. Check course dates for available classes here. 

Certification is reimbursed upon hiring. 

Junior Lifeguard Program

Thank you for your interest in the Junior Lifeguard Program. Registration for the 2024 season opens soon - find out more.

Contact Clarissa Knorr, Junior Lifeguard Coordinator:
480.350.5731
Clarissa_Knorr@tempe.gov

City of Tempe is a Starfish Aquatics Institute certifying agency. We train all our staff using the Starfish Model and offer swim lessons March-April, and June-September. We offer classes to participants ages 9 months into adulthood. Lessons sessions are either 6 classes per session or 4 classes per session. Swim instructors are required to attend all classes they teach during that session. 

If you are a current Starfish Aquatics Swim Instructor, please send in an application to aquatics@tempe.gov.  

The City of Tempe offers a summer recreation swim team program the last week of May to the middle of July.  If interested in becoming a swim coach for the summer, please send an application to aquatics@tempe.gov. 

Applicants must be able to attend practices Monday-Thursday and Saturday morning swim meets the last Wednesday in May through the last weekend in July.

All applicants must have at least one year of teaching swim lessons and/or swim coaching experience to be considered.

Headguard and Assistant Pool Manager positions are currently filled.