As demand for people to fill the positions is at an all-time high, staff from the city’s Parks and Recreation Department estimated it currently has 20 positions filled of the 80 total lifeguards needed to open its public pools and the aquatics center, according to an April 22 news release. Those staff members are also needed to allow the city to offer summer swim classes, the release states.
“Our goal is to be fully staffed and operational so that we can offer city of Richardson residents a fun and safe summer experience at all five of our community pools,” Lori Smeby, director of the Richardson Parks & Recreation Department, said in a statement. “These jobs provide candidates with an opportunity to work in a friendly, outdoor setting as part of a dynamic team while also continuing to build their resumes for the future.”
In addition to those already hired, city officials said it has 22 pending lifeguard applicants. If all are hired, the program will still need nearly 40 additional lifeguards, 15 swim instructors and five management staff to ensure little to no operational delays or interruptions at city pool facilities, the release states.
Last year, the city modified hours of operation of the aquatic center and its four neighborhood pools due to a lifeguard shortage.
As part of Richardson's hiring initiative for this year, pay for lifeguards will now begin at $13.50 an hour, while swim instructors' pay will begin at $15 per hour. Assistant pool managers will have pay starting at $15.50 per hour and the salary for pool managers was increased to start at $17.50 per hour.
Richardson is also offering incentives for additional pay related to the hiring process. The city is offering a $50 referral incentive, with a cutoff date of June 15. Candidates hired and on the payroll prior to May 15 will receive a $50 Paperwork Completion Incentive. A seasonal work incentive will also be provided to those who began work by May 15 and “complete all job duties in good standing,” according to city officials.
City officials said lifeguards, assistant managers and managers have the opportunity to earn up to an additional $400 depending on the number of hours worked. In addition, assistant managers and managers with a Lifeguard Instructor Certification can earn up to an additional $750. City officials said this incentive will be paid at the end of the season or employment.
All positions are open to those age 15 and older. City officials said lifeguard applicants must hold current certifications in lifeguard training, CPR and First Aid through the American Red Cross with recertification costs covered for all returning lifeguards.
To complete an application and learn more, visit www.cor.net/jobs.
