City of Akron Implementing Changes to Attract More Qualified Lifeguards for City Pools this Summer
City of Akron Implementing Changes to Attract More Qualified Lifeguards for City Pools this Summer
Eligibility criteria expanded to include high school seniors
Akron, Ohio, March 5, 2019 – The City is now hiring lifeguards for Perkins Woods Pool and Reservoir Park Pool for the Summer 2019 season. The City is expanding the potential field of applicants by updating the employment requirements and removing the stipulation that applicants must be a high school graduate. Now, all lifeguards must be 17 years old, have completed 11th grade, possess a valid driver’s license, and be Red Cross Certified by June 2019.
The City anticipates the need to hire at least 18 total lifeguards this season—10 more than in past summer seasons. Akron lifeguards are paid at a rate of $11.18 per hour, which is higher than similar lifeguarding opportunities elsewhere.
“The results of our community-wide recreation survey revealed that pools continue to be important drivers of connection, safety, and quality of life in our neighborhoods,” Mayor Dan Horrigan said. “By offering a Red Cross Certification class and expanding opportunities for lifeguards to high school seniors, we hope to be able to extend pool hours this summer.”
The Akron Recreation Bureau will be offering a Red Cross Certification class for anyone interested in becoming a lifeguard. Participants are not required to apply for the City lifeguard position to enroll. This course will be conducted during March at a fee of $99 per person and will include materials, instruction and a certificate. Course training will take place online and in-person at Cleveland Clinic Akron General Health and Wellness Center (4300 Allen Road, Stow, 44224) on March 14th, 16th and 17th. For details on the certification course, please contact Lisa Ellis, Recreation Leader, at 330-375-2852.
Additionally, the City will be hosting a hiring event on Friday, March 8th from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. at the Ohio Means Jobs Center (1040 E. Tallmadge Avenue, 44310). Applications are currently being accepted online at www.akronohio.gov/personnel.