Before you know it, summer will be here. Philadelphia Parks & Recreation wants to remind you that the city has plenty of summer job options for you – 400+ jobs, to be more specific.

With great work hours and a starting pay of $16 an hour, this isn’t your average part-time job.

Getting certified is free for applicants ages 16-24 who commit to working at a City pool. The Red Cross lifeguard certification fee is $110 for all other candidates.

Lifeguard screenings are taking place now, so it’s not too early to get swimming.

Here are a few reasons why you should consider applying today:

1. Get a $500 end-of-the-season bonus!

This year, qualified lifeguard candidates can earn a $500 end-of-the-year bonus. To receive the $500 end-of-season bonus you must:

• Submit your completed employment application by May 15, 2024.
• Work through the 2024 summer season.

2. Learn valuable career skills.

A lifeguard develops and sharpens valuable leadership skills like:

• Public speaking: lifeguards address large crowds of swimmers daily. They communicate swimming guidelines and address safety concerns as they arise.
• Discipline: a lifeguard job is all about discipline. Lifeguards must stay in good shape to maintain their stamina. They learn swimming techniques needed to save lives. Most importantly, they must stay focused while watching swimmers without getting distracted.
• Teamwork: Depending on the size of the pool, a team of three to five lifeguards works at each site. This team develops a bond as they work to keep the public safe.
• Problem Solving: lifeguards must remain calm and decide what actions to take to ensure safety.

3. Give back through public service.

Philly’s public pools are an oasis for all Philadelphians. Our pools:

• Provide the public with a place to cool off during the summer months.
• Offer opportunities for young people to learn how to swim.
• Give people a safe place to have fun and exercise.

Lifeguards make all this possible. They patrol our pools daily to help the public stay safe during all activities.

Working as a lifeguard can serve as a steppingstone to a public service career. Many senior-level Parks & Recreation employees started with the department as a lifeguard.

4. Become an important member of a Philadelphia neighborhood.

Lifeguards at public pools:

• Serve as role models.
• Foster positive relationships.
• Inspire achievement.

5. It’s fun.

Lifeguards get to:

• Soak up the sun.
• Burn calories.
• Take a dip in the pool.
• Be a superhero.