Become an NYC Parks Lifeguard

Try out in December and January for a chance to become a lifeguard for summer 2022!

Help Keep New Yorkers Safe this Summer

Help us keep millions of New Yorkers safe at NYC's beaches and outdoor pools this summer. As one of just 1,400 NYC Parks Lifeguards, you will be part of an elite group that is committed to serving the public. 

One of the best jobs in New York City, lifeguarding gives people the opportunity to work in a rewarding and challenging environment during the busy summer months. It requires split-second decision making that could mean the difference between life and death and helps develop valuable skills—a strong work ethic, teamwork, leadership, and communication—that will last a lifetime in any profession. 

Lifeguards work 48 hours each week and first-year lifeguards earn a minimum of $16 an hour, for a weekly salary of about $800. Parks’ beaches open on Memorial Day weekend, and pools open in late June; both close the Sunday after Labor Day. 

Become a lifeguard and help build on the exemplary safety record our lifeguards have set over the years!

How to Join

Before joining our lifeguard training program, applicants must pass the Qualifying Test, a set of vision and swim exams. All candidates are tested by Parks’ Lifeguard School to ensure that they meet the highest standards. 

Once you've passed the qualifying test, you're able to join the Lifeguard Training Program. Upon completion of the training program, you must pass final swimming tests and a written test to become a lifeguard. 

Qualifying Test Locations and Dates

Qualifying tests for the Summer 2021 season take place in December 2021 and January 2022. Please check back in late November for test dates and test locations.

Qualifying Test Requirements

To qualify, you must:

• Be at least 16 years of age by the start of employment.
• Have at least 20/30 vision in one eye and 20/40 in the other - without corrective lenses. 
  Glasses and contact lenses may not be worn during the eye exam.
• Be able to swim 50 yards in 35 seconds or less, with proper form.

Find Out More

Want to be notified when lifeguard recruitment starts? Fill out our Information Request form.