Countdown to Summer!
Join Our Team - We’re Looking for the World’s Best Lifeguards!
Created in 1961, this program aims to build mutual understanding between the U.S. and other countries It’s a unique opportunity for young people worldwide tothemselves , while gaining a global perspective to bring back home. Join us this summer to
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Who are we?
Spend your summer in the USA with High Sierra Pools! With over 30+ years of experience, we offer lifeguard positions to exchange visitors through the Summer Work and travel program. Experience life in the United Sates, connect with people from around the world, and make a difference by ensuring the safety of local communities.
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What to expect?
As a lifeguard with High Sierra Pools, you’ll perform tasks such as ensuring the safety of swimmers, monitoring pool areas, and responding to emergencies when needed. This role allows you to develop life-saving skills and enjoy a memorable summer while immersing yourself in U.S. culture.
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Why choose us?
Enjoy competitive pay along with affordable housing while working at great locations across Virginia, Washington DC, Maryland and Massachusetts, along with affordable housing. Take advantage of full employee support and exclusive events such as amusement park visits, local baseball games, and the Lifeguard Olympics. It’s more than just summer employment – it’s a unique experience that will leave you with lasting memories!
Summer Work & Travel Overview
Ready for a life-changing summer? The Summer Work and Travel program invites college and university students from around the world to live and explore the U.S. during your summer break.
This unique program offers cultural exchange, the chance to explore new destinations across the U.S., and gain valuable life and work experience.
Immerse yourself in American culture, share your own culture, and travel the country-all while earning money.
Eligibility Requirements:
✔ English Proficiency: You must be able to communicate effectively in English.
✔ Student Status: You must be enrolled as a full-time student at an accredited university outside the U.S.
✔ Academic Progress: You must have successfully finished at least one semester of university coursework.
Dive In! Lifeguard Benefits You'll Love
Cultural Exchange
Various Work Locations
Travel with Your Friends
Training & Certification
Accommodations and Transportation
Fun Team Building Activities
Employee Support
Competitive Pay & Bonuses
Become a Lifeguard at High Sierra Pools
Apply Through Your Local Agency
Check the list of our partnering agencies below to get started!
Ace Your Interview
This is your chance to show us your excitement about lifeguarding and let us know you’re serious about making a splash this summer.
Tell us your preferences and get ready for an unforgettable experience!
Applicant Portal & Agreement
Once you’ve successfully completed your interview, you’ll gain access to your HSP applicant portal. Next, it’s time to sign your Employment and Housing Agreement with all the details. Be sure to watch for important emails!
Get Certified & Trained
Learn the skills you need! High Sierra Pools offers discounted American Red Cross training for all new hires.
- CPR and First Aid: Be the one who saves the day (and maybe someone’s summer).
- Water Rescue Skills: Learn the moves to dive in and save lives like a pro.
- Lifeguard Essentials: From scanning the pool to handling emergencies, you’ll be the person everyone counts on.
Get Your J-1 Visa & Book a Flight
Work with your local agency to obtain your J-1 visa and book your flight to the U.S.
Once your flight is booked, share your flight information with us through your Applicant Portal.
Arrival in the USA
Review your arrival instructions and board your flight.
We’ll pick you up, take you to your accommodations, and get you set for the next day.
Then, the adventure begins!
Find Your Local Agency
No Agency in Your Country?
Email our Human Resources Department at [email protected], and we’ll respond as soon as possible.
Partnering Program Sponsors
Dive into Summer 2025 with Our Lifeguard Referral Program!
Refer them to High Sierra Pools and get a bonus! Help us make pools safer and summers more fun, all while you both earn extra cash!
- Both former employees and current Summer 2025 applicants are eligible to participate.
- A new applicant must become employed for Summer 2025 and work a minimum of 10 weeks.
- The referred candidate must not be a former or current employee of High Sierra Pools and can only be referred once, by one person, to one recruitment
source. - The more referrals you make, the more $$$ you earn!
Purpose
- The Referral Program is used to provide an incentive of $100* per referral to HSP current applicants (for the 2025 Summer Season) and former HSP employees who refer new candidate(s)* to a High Sierra Pools Authorized Representative.
- Introduce your friends to High Sierra Pools, and spread the word about the positive experience of the Summer Work and Travel Program.
- Help our recruiters and partners to fulfill or exceed the overall quota and earn some ca$h on the way!
- Strengthen your own network by connecting people from different backgrounds and nationalities.
- Find candidates who will help us exceed our customers’ expectations and ensure safer swimming pools!
Eligibility
- Both former employees and current Summer 2025 applicants are eligible to participate in the Referral Program.
- An applicant who is not a former HSP employee must become an employee in the Summer of 2025 and work for a minimum of 10 weeks during that summer.
- Referred candidate must be a participant in the Work and Travel Program 2025.
- All referrals must be submitted to Human Resources via the Online Candidate Referral Form.
- All Mandatory fields on the Candidate Referral Form must be completed – incomplete referral forms and/or information may result in a denial of the referral.
- Candidates may be referred only once, by one person, to one recruitment source.
- Referred candidate must be entered in our Online Candidate Referral Form before their interview with one of our representatives.
- Referred candidates must successfully pass the job interview, receive a job offer, finish the American Red Cross certification class, arrive in the USA, and be employed with High Sierra Pools during the Summer of 2025 for at least 10 weeks. If a candidate terminates his/her employment at any time during said timeframe, the referral incentive will not be awarded.
Earnings Potential
- The $100**/referral incentive will be awarded if all conditions above are met.
Payment Timeline
- The referral incentives shall be paid in one lump sum payment after the person referred has been employed with High Sierra Pools for at least 10 weeks.
- If the referring person is a current High Sierra Pools employee, the referral incentive will be paid in the form of an Authorized Fees credit in August 2025.
- If the referring person is not a High Sierra Pools employee, the referral incentive will be paid by an HSP Authorized Representative or HSP Corporate in October 2025.
* New candidate(s) – participants who have never been employed OR applied for employment with HSP.
** If any of the required conditions are not met, the incentive will not be awarded.
Supporting Your Child’s Summer Adventure
Dear Parents,
We understand that sending your child abroad is a big decision. The Summer Work and Travel program offers a valuable opportunity for them to gain life experience. As a lifeguard with High Sierra Pools, they’ll receive top-tier training, work with a supportive team, and ensure pool safety across the East Coast.
Beyond the job, they’ll experience American culture, improve their English, and build professional skills in an international environment. With opportunities to travel, explore, and make lasting memories, we’re committed to supporting their growth every step of the way.
Thank you for trusting us with this exciting opportunity for your child.
Got Questions? Check Out Our FAQs!
How do I apply for the Work and Travel USA program?
You can apply directly through our website or by contacting your local agency.
Can I participate in the program with my friends?
Yes, you can apply with friends and work and live in the same area.
Can I choose the place where I will work during the Work and Travel program?
You can indicate your location preferences, but final placements are based on available positions and staffing needs in the DMV (Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia) and Southern Virginia, as well as Boston (Massachusetts).
How many hours will I work weekly?
You can expect to work an average of 48-56 hours per week, though hours may vary by location and performance.
Will I get paid overtime?
Yes, you will be paid overtime at 1.5 times your regular wage for every hour you work over 40 hours per week (except in Montgomery County, MD).
Can I find a second job?
Yes, but you must get approval from your visa sponsor. Your role with High Sierra Pools must remain your priority.
Where will I live?
High Sierra Pools provides affordable, high-quality housing for all participants.
- Apartments are in safe areas and are partially furnished with essential appliances and furniture.
- Utilities, a local phone, and internet are included.
- On-site laundry facilities are available.
What should I bring?
- Essentials: Your own blankets and towels.
- Provided: Air mattresses, new bedding, and other necessities are provided.
How far away is my apartment from my work?
Most worksites are 2-5 miles (3-8 km) away. Commutes average between 15-45 minutes.
How will I get to work?
You can get to work by biking, walking, or using public transportation. High Sierra Pools also offers bicycles for purchase with a buyback option.
Are there any cool trips or events?
Absolutely! High Sierra Pools organizes awesome activities like baseball games, beach trips, Lifeguard Olympics, and more. We encourage you to join company and local events – they are a great way to have fun, experience American culture, and make new friends!
Can I travel in the USA during my free time?
Yes, you can travel during your free time and after your work commitment has been completed.
Can I finish the Summer Work and Travel Program early?
Early completion is only allowed in emergencies like illness or family matters, and only with approval from your visa sponsor, employer, and agency. Otherwise, you are expected to fulfill your job commitment.
Do I have to pay taxes in the US?
Yes, federal, state, and local taxes will be automatically withheld from your paycheck.
Will I get my taxes back?
You can file for a tax return at the beginning of the following year. We’ll provide you with a W-2 form, which you’ll use to apply for a refund.
Experiences Shared by Our Lifeguards
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