Although the 2022 summer season is still several months away, New York City has begun testing for the lifeguard program, the city’s Parks Department announced.
These qualifying exams will take place from January 31 to February 19. Applicants must be at least 16 years old at the start of employment and register online to take the test.
Testing locations are available in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Queens.
What are the requirements to pass the test?
All prospective lifeguards must pass the lifeguard qualification test, a series of vision and swimming tests. To qualify, they must:
- Be at least 16 years of age at the start of employment.
- Have at least 20/30 vision in one eye and 20/40 in the other, without corrective lenses. No glasses or contact lenses may be worn during the eye exam.
- Be able to swim 50 yards in 35 seconds or less, with proper form.
- Individuals must be vaccinated to take the qualifying test. All candidates are screened by the Parks Lifeguard School to ensure they meet the highest standards.
How much would you earn and what would your work hours be?
Lifeguards work five to six days a week, and first-year lifeguards earn a minimum of $16 an hour, for a weekly salary of about $800.
Park beaches open Memorial Day weekend and pools open in late June; both close the Sunday after Labor Day.
What skills do I gain?
Once you pass the qualification test, begin training to become a New York City lifeguard. Here, you’ll develop swimming skills, learn lifesaving techniques, and receive certification to become a New York City lifeguard.
- Develop job skills.
- Being part of a team.
- Get a certification.
- Earn a lifeguard certification from NYC Parks and learn CPR, first aid and rescue techniques.
- Practice swimming.
Where can I register to take the test?
To register and take the test visit this website. Here you will find the dates and places where you can take the exam as well as other information.
“Being a lifeguard is a rewarding and challenging job that requires split-second decisions and develops valuable skills that can last a lifetime,” the New York City Parks Department wrote in a press release. “NYC Parks is looking for New Yorkers who have the physical and mental discipline to be a part of our team for the summer of 2022.”
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