A shortage of lifeguards is being blamed on a competitive job market. (CBC)

A shortage of qualified lifeguards in Saskatchewan is being blamed on a competitive job market that has many seeking better paying work in other fields, according to the group that certifies lifeguards.

"Most lifeguards in Saskatchewan are going to make somewhere between minimum wage and probably about $20 an hour. So its not great," Shawn Weimer, from the Lifesaving Society, told CBC News.

He said pool operators looking for qualified lifeguards need to be competitive.

"We really do believe that's something that can be addressed by employers," he said.

The Lifesaving Society certifies about 850 people for lifeguard work, over the course of a typical year.

He said experienced lifeguards often seek out higher paying jobs, after a few years.