Train Hard. Work the Beach. Make a Difference.

The Town of Nags Head, located on the northern Outer Banks of North Carolina, is now accepting ocean lifeguard applications for the 2026 summer season.  The Town's Ocean Rescue Unit protects approximately 11 ½ miles of beachfront with a staff of 45 lifeguards. On a weekly basis, lifeguard personnel are assigned to stationary stands or ATV roving patrols. The lifeguard work schedule is 10-12 days per two-week pay-period, averaging 46-50+ hours per week. 

Training camp is mandatory for all first year guards.

• Training Camp #1 will run 5/10/26 - 5/23/26

• Training Camp #2 will run 6/5/26 - 6/17/26

Lifeguards that are hired under the age of 18 will participate in a structured training program where they will receive appropriate mentorship and supervision.   Staff in this program will be Ocean Guard Apprentices and provide lifeguard services in a limited capacity.  

We are excited to offer Ocean Rescue Lifeguard housing this year to our seasonal staff.  Our units are brand new and fully furnished.  Please apply for additional details regarding pricing and lease information.   

Responsibilities

• Scans the area of surveillance to make sure that patrons are safe and behaving according to the rules.

• Acts in emergency situations and provides rescue and first aid assistance up to his or her training level until medical personnel arrives.

• Watches for unsafe conditions to prevent accidents and reports any hazards to the supervisor.

• Educates beach patrons about ocean swimming safety and hazards.

• Enforces rules consistently and fairly.

• Fills out reports for incidents or other records for reference.

Requirements

• Run 1 mile in under 8 minutes.  Will be required to test as part of hiring process.

• Swim 500 meters in under 10 minutes.  Will be required to test as part of hiring process.

• Complete the Emergency Medical Responder training (60 hours), provided when hired.

• Complete the USLA approved open-water lifeguard training (48 hours), provided when hired.

• Pass a physical examination.

• Pass a pre-employment background check and drug screening.

• Must have current Lifeguard Training and/or Community First Aid Training, and Professional Rescuer Cardiopulmonary (CPR) within 3 weeks of employment.