The City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department aims to open all public pools this summer but cannot reach this goal unless the Aquatic Division can train and hire over 700 lifeguards between now and spring of 2023. Lifeguard training and hiring starts at age 15 and there is no age limit. Candidates from diverse origins, orientations, identities, and abilities are welcome. All interested people are encouraged to apply today to start a career in aquatics.  

Austin City Council has been making changes to encourage applicants to join the City of Austin workforce. The City recently raised its minimum wage to $20 per hour to keep up with the cost of living. Lifeguards now get free training and a free uniform. There is also a $400 lifeguard training stipend for staff who complete a certain number of work hours during the swim season. Staff also get a free Cap Metro pass.  

Depending on their age, people interested in becoming a lifeguard can start working at one of Austin’s year-round pools now or get the training under their belt this fall or winter, then start lifeguarding in the spring or summer. Lifeguards over the age of 16 can start work right away and 15-year-old lifeguards can begin working after AISD lets out for summer break.  

Many people start in high school or college and continue working as lifeguards well into adulthood and even retirement. Lifeguarding can also be a stepping stone to a career in public service or a job as a first responder. Tomorrow’s emergency medical technicians, firefighters, and police officers can start learning lifesaving skills and building emergency response experience working as lifeguards today.  

Learn more about how to become a lifeguard at LifeguardAustin.com.