As we welcome Spring, CitiParks is preparing for Summer, including launching its lifeguard recruitment efforts. Recruiting, training, and certifying lifeguards are essential for a successful and safe outdoor pool season for residents.
CitiParks Aquatics recruits, trains and certifies lifeguards for the City of Pittsburgh every year. However, since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, onboarding enough lifeguards to work all of the City of Pittsburgh’s outdoor pools has become an increasingly challenging task.
“Recruiting lifeguards is no small feat, and I want to applaud the relentless efforts of CitiParks Aquatics in making this happen,” said Mayor Ed Gainey. “Now, I’m calling on the community to join us in this important effort. If you’re interested, or if you know someone who is, let’s work together to ensure a safe, fun-filled summer for everyone. Spread the word and encourage them to apply to become a CitiParks lifeguard today. The more lifeguards we have, the more pools we can open—and the more joy we can bring to our city this summer.”
The city has steadily increased the number of pools opened each year, with 8 pools in 2021, 12 in 2022, and 15 in both 2023 and 2024. This year, we aim to open as many pools as possible, but the total will depend on how many lifeguards we can recruit.
“We continue to work hard to garner increased interest in recruiting CitiParks lifeguards. We are encouraged by the enthusiasm our returning guards show each year, and we work hard to promote that with all incoming guards. Higher wages for 2025 will help with that,” said CitiParks Director Kathryn Vargas “If anyone in the city knows of someone even thinking about becoming a lifeguard, please encourage them to fill out our 2025 lifeguard interest form. Our staff works with all those who show interest and provides practice time to improve skills prior to certification. Lifeguard wages for 2025 will range from $17.48 to $20.16 per hour, based on experience.”
Lifeguard duties range from staffing normal operating hours of pools to working as head guards or as regional guards. Employees have the opportunity to learn and grow within CitiParks Aquatics, which may lead to other City employment opportunities. Many Public Safety professionals get their start in service as a lifeguard.
Lifeguards must be City of Pittsburgh residents, at least 15 years old, and willing to work at any CitiParks Outdoor Pool. Anyone interested in becoming a CitiParks lifeguard, whether a new candidate or a returning guard should fill out the 2025 Lifeguard Interest Form, and CitiParks Aquatics will contact them.
For additional information, please visit: https://www.pittsburghpa.gov/Recreation-Events/Pools/Citiparks-Lifeguard or scan the QR code on the flyer below.
Check out our 2025 Lifeguard Recruitment Video HERE.
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