AUSTIN, Texas — Sunny skies and time spent at the pool are staples of Central Texas summers.
This year, more than 600 full and part-time lifeguard positions in the City of Austin still need to be filled.
The Parks and Recreation Department's Aquatic Division currently has 235 lifeguards for the 2024 season and it's encouraging anyone 15 years or older to apply now.
Beginner paychecks start at $20.80 an hour, and all employees receive a free uniform.
Those interested should complete an application, then wait 48 to 72 hours for an email response. Once hired, lifeguards are required to take free certification training. Those with previous experience can sign up for renewal classes.
Courses are available not just in the summer months, but during the wintertime, too. Future lifeguards should be able to swim freestyle for 150 yards, face up with a rescue device for 50 yards; swim into 12- to 14-foot deep waters to pick up and carry a brick; and tread water without hands and with hands for one minute at a time.
From Barton Springs Pool to the Springwoods, 45 swimming facilities need some help.