Philadelphia Pools Looking To Hire 400 Lifeguards For Summer 2022
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- It may be February, but Philadelphia's Department of Parks and Recreation is already thinking about pool season. Officials are hoping to avoid another season short on lifeguards.
While the current warm spell has no doubt caused many in the area to develop a premature case of spring fever, by Sunday, there will be a harsh reminder that winter is still here. That said, some people, like Philly's Parks and Rec, already have summer on their minds.
"Right now, we are kicking off our lifeguard recruitment season," said Kathryn Ott Lovell, commissioner of the Parks and Rec department. "It's time to start thinking about summer, it's time to start thinking about pools. I know it doesn't feel like it outside, but it is time. Summer will be here before we know it."
Why start recruiting in February?
"There are a lot of kids 16 and older who are thinking about their summer job, thinking about how they're going to make some money this summer and we want them to think about this first," Ott Lovell said.
If you or someone you know might be interested, here are a few qualifications needed to do the job.
"We're looking for folks that can swim, so that's number one," Ott Lovell said. "We're looking for folks who can swim, who want to give back to their city and really make a commitment to their communities. We're looking for folks who have a good work ethic. This often attracts young people. We can take people 16 years of age or older, but we've had a lot of success engaging recent retirees as well."
Candidates don't have to live in the city to work at a city pool. They'll earn at least $15 an hour and the Department of Parks and Recreation will help you earn your lifeguard certification.
"As long as you know the basics of swimming, we offer classes, free classes, so that we can train you," Ott Lovell said.
Last summer, a lifeguard shortage resulted in only 70% of Philadelphia city pools opening. This recruitment drive hopes to make sure this summer, they're at 100%.
If you want to apply, click here.