Philadelphia Seeks Summer Lifeguards at City Pools
The Philadelphia Parks and Recreation department is actively recruiting lifeguards for city pools this summer, offering free training and competitive pay. According to a WHYY report, the starting pay is…
The Philadelphia Parks and Recreation department is actively recruiting lifeguards for city pools this summer, offering free training and competitive pay.
According to a WHYY report, the starting pay is $16.85 per hour, with the potential to reach $18 per hour.
Qualified lifeguards who submit their applications by April 15 and work 200 hours are eligible for a $1,000 end-of-season bonus. Those who submit their application by May 15 and complete 200 hours are eligible for a $500 bonus.
Free lifeguard training is available to all applicants. Those ages 16 to 24 can also receive a free Red Cross certification. Costs for applicants ages 25 and older are $175, while recertification is $110.
Applicants must be at least 16 years old to qualify, pass the lifeguard screening test, and complete a Red Cross lifeguard certification course.
According to WHYY, the lifeguard screening test asks applicants to complete a swim-tread-swim sequence without stopping to rest, then complete a timed event within 1 minute and 40 seconds.
Swim-Tread-Swim Sequence
- Jump into the water and submerge completely. Resurface, then swim 150 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke, or a combination of both. Swimming on the back or side is not permitted. Swim goggles are allowed.
- Maintain one's position at the surface of the water for two minutes by treading water with only one's legs.
- Swim 50 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke, or a combination of both.
Timed Swimming
- Swim 20 yards. One's face can be in or out of the water. Swim goggles are allowed.
- Surface dive, feet-first or head-first, to a depth of 7 to 10 feet to pick up a 10-pound object.
- Return to the surface and swim 20 yards on the back to the starting point, holding the object at the surface with both hands and keeping one's face out, at, or near the surface.
- Exit the water without using steps or a ladder.
Free trainings and screenings will be held at Lincoln High School and Friends Select School.
