The ability to open all the pools in the city is due to staffing, which increased after lifeguard pay rates increased and bonuses were introduced. Staffing for lifeguards began to stagger after 2020 due to the pandemic, and nationwide there is still a lifeguard shortage, Lyons said.
In previous years, pay for Austin lifeguards began at $16 per hour, but now start at $20 per hour. Bonuses include $250 for employees who work 200 hours during the summer season, another $250 if they hit 300 hours and an additional $250 for 400 hours.
“Aquatic staff are continuing to train and hire more since fluctuations in temporary seasonal staff is not uncommon,” Lyons said. “Ideally, the city is aiming to have a total of 850 lifeguards on staff before the summer’s end.”
As of June 14, a total of 712 lifeguards are on staff, resulting in a 16% vacancy rate for the city’s lifeguards.
For more information on city pools and lifeguard positions, visit www.austintexas.gov/department/aquatics-home.
