We’re still deep into winter, but it’s never too early to start planning for summer! Warm weather will be here before you know it, making now a great time for teens to start thinking about a summer job. While many teens opt for jobs in retail and food service, here’s another option: Becoming a NYC lifeguard!
The NYC Department of Parks and Recreation just announced qualifying testing for the city lifeguard program will begin on Friday, Dec. 2. Applicants must be at least 16 years old by the start of employment and register online to take the test.
Testing locations are available in 10 pools around the city, including Curtis High School on Staten Island.
Lifeguards work five to six days each week. Currently, first-year lifeguards earn a minimum of $16 an hour. Each year, city beaches open Memorial Day weekend, and outdoor pools open in late June. Both pools and beaches close the Sunday after Labor Day.
The parks department is encouraging anyone who worked as a lifeguard with NYC parks last summer to tell their friends to join the team. NYC lifeguards who refer a friend to join the corps can receive a gift for a successful referral.
In addition to having fun in the sun and staying in shape with all that swimming, teens can expect plenty more from this summer job opportunity. Being a NYC Parks lifeguard allows teens to:
Develop Job Skills: Learn valuable leadership and communication skills that will last a lifetime in any profession.
Become Part of a Team: Make friends with others who are also committed to serving the public.
Get Their Certification: Earn a NYC Parks lifeguard certification, and learn CPR, first-aid, and rescue techniques.
Practice Swimming: Get access to all of the city’s indoor pools to strengthen swimming skills.
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How To Become A NYC Parks Lifeguard
All potential lifeguards must pass the Lifeguard Qualifying Test, a series of vision and swim exams. To qualify, applicants must:
- Have at least 20/30 vision in one eye and 20/40 in the other – without corrective lenses. Glasses and contact lenses may not be worn during the eye exam.
- Be able to swim 50 yards in 35 seconds or less, with proper form.
Once applicants pass the qualifying test, NYC lifeguard training begins. Trainees will develop their swimming skills, learn life-saving techniques and receive their certification to become a NYC Lifeguard. Training is a 16-week program that consists of 40 hours of training, a CPR course and final swimming tests. After training is complete, trainees may then be offered a full-time job for the summer working at a NYC beach or pool.
For more information about becoming a NYC Parks lifeguard, visit nycgovparks.org, or follow NYC Parks on Facebook or Instagram.
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