Critical Need for Lifeguards & Swim Instructors This Summer

Media: Fianna Dickson, 625.6297. Parks & Recreation: 311 or 509.755.2489

Monday, April 26, 2021 at 1:50 p.m.

SPOKANE – The City plans to open all six aquatic centers this year, but one barrier is standing in the way – finding enough lifeguards and swim instructors.

There is a need for 80 lifeguards and 30 swim instructors to operate this summer. Right now, we have applications for about ½ the amount of lifeguards needed, and about 1/3 of swim instructors needed.

“We are excited to open our pools this year, and to again offer free swimming for all ages, but we must have lifeguards and instructors,” said Garrett Jones, director of Parks & Recreation for the City of Spokane. “We know how much our community needs access to free swimming after a difficult year, and we are asking for interested people who meet the qualifications for lifeguarding or swim instruction to please apply for this great summer job.”

 

Becoming a lifeguard or swim instructor

Requirements:

  • Age 15+
  • Basic swim skills
  • For lifeguards: Pass a certification course (swim instructors will receive training but do not need to be certified)

Getting lifeguard certified: Lifeguard applicants must pass a certification course. Thanks to a generous grant from the Spokane Parks Foundation, the certification course is currently $75 (normally $175), and re-certification is just $20 (normally $70). The grant funding for reduced training costs is limited, and offered first-come, first-served. The course is offered at various dates and times.

Pay range: $13.69 - $15/hour

Hours: Pools are scheduled to be open Mondays – Saturdays. Operating hours range from 6 A.M. – 9 P.M. depending on the pool and the scheduled activities (swim lessons, swim team, lap swim, free open swim)

How to apply: Apply online in four easy steps

 

Our goal is to operate a safe, equitable swim season. More details about the 2021 aquatics season will be shared in the next few weeks, as plans are confirmed. Pools are anticipated to open in the second half of June.

 

About City of Spokane Parks and Recreation

City of Spokane Parks and Recreation stewards nearly 120 properties across 4,000 acres of park land, including manicured parks, conservation lands, aquatic centers, golf courses, sports complexes, and an arboretum. We also offer hundreds of recreation opportunities for all ages and abilities to improve the health and quality of life for our community. Enjoy all your city has to offer by visiting spokaneparks.org. Follow us @SpokaneParks on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

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