Trainee Lifeguard in Cardiff

We understand a barrier to achieving the required coaching qualifications can often be the cost and the location of course providers. We want to make this easier for aspiring Lifeguards. We will therefore cover the cost of your training upfront, provide equipment and ensure you have guaranteed work for the season ahead.

The first step of your Lifeguard training will be completing our first RLSS NVBLQ Lifeguard Course, running from 20th – 28th March 2026 (20th – 22nd & 26th – 28th). To be considered you must be able to commit to the following:

• Available for the duration of the 6-day RLSS NVBLQ course at Porthcawl
• Can meet the timed swim target of 400m in 7.5 minutes
• You must be available to work shift work, weekends and the duration of the school holidays
• Able to commit to a 28 hour per week fixed-term contract throughout the 2026 season
• Able to provide us with a clear DBS check certificate dated after any offers of employment and prior to commencing the course.

The Training Contract: You will be required to enter into a training agreement, whereby, subject to completing a minimum amount of hours during your employment you will incur no charge for the cost of the course. For individuals who don’t meet these hours, a proportionate charge will be deducted on your final pay. The training agreement will set out the full cost implications.

What happens at the end of the contract? It may be possible for the participants to continue working for us beyond the end of the fixed-term contract. We also hope that we would see you return as part of The Wave family in subsequent seasons.

About the Role: As a Trainee Lifeguard at The Wave, you’ll play a vital role in delivering safe, unforgettable surf experiences. You’ll be responsible for maintaining the highest standards of water safety, supporting surf operations, and delivering excellent customer service both on and off the lake. This is a hands-on role requiring vigilance, confidence, and strong communication skills in a fast-paced environment.

Key responsibilities include:

• Maintain the safety of all lake users through active supervision and lifeguard rotations
• Deliver professional lifeguarding duties in line with EAPs, SOPs and training standards
• Carry out visual equipment checks and ensure all safety equipment is rescue-ready
• Respond confidently to incidents, administer first aid, and complete incident reports
• Support surf operations including checking in customers, sorting and cleaning equipment and visitor flow
• Communicate clearly with surfers, hosts and the wider Surf Ops team
• Ensure correct surfer numbers, waiver checks, helmet compliance and session rules
• Promote a positive, welcoming atmosphere while delivering high standards of customer service
• Support cleanliness, organisation and smooth daily opening and closing procedures

About You: You’re calm under pressure, proactive and safety-focused, with a passion for working outdoors and supporting great guest experiences. An aspiring Lifeguard who wants to develop their skills and knowledge of safety, first aid and lifeguarding. Confidence communicating with a wide range of customers. A team player who works well in dynamic, operational environments. A positive, professional attitude aligned with our FAIR values.

What We Offer: 30 days paid holiday (inclusive of bank holidays), free access to our staff surf sessions, multiple discounts across our surf and other offerings.

Benefits: We aim to create a workplace where people feel valued, energised and able to bring their best. At The Wave you’ll find: Fixed-term contract that will run from Monday 30th March to either Wednesday 2nd September or Sunday 4th October (to be discussed at Interview).