INDIANAPOLIS — Indy Parks is increasing its lifeguard pay to $13 per hour as a final hiring push before pool season begins, the organization announced Thursday.
More than 40 lifeguards are needed. Despite the shortage, the parks department has implemented guidelines to safely open pools using existing staff on a rotating basis.
Selected summer pools will close 2-3 days a week, giving staff needed breaks and allowing for parks to share seasonal staff, if needed.
“Each year, Indy Parks relies on the hard work of nearly 300 staff members to help us safely operate our pools and run our summer programs. With less than two weeks to go until pools open, we know youth and adults are still looking for summer employment,” said Linda Broadfoot, Indy Parks director. “It has been a tough year for hiring across the city and nation. We are hopeful that increasing the starting pay and incentives for our lifeguards will encourage more people to apply and fill these important positions.”
Indy Parks is also announcing two bonus programs for current and incoming part-time staff:
- $50 bonus for 50 hours worked: All seasonal, part-time workers are eligible for a $50 bonus after working 50 hours and completing all required training. Both new and returning summer staff are eligible.
- $100 referral bonus: Current part-time Indy Parks employees can get an extra $100 for referring a lifeguard candidate after the candidate successfully completes all training and 100 hours of work.
To be eligible for the bonuses, candidates must submit all hiring paperwork and be registered for all required training by June 4.
Those applying for lifeguard positions must be at least 16, pass a lifeguard test, and attend training. Training is $10 and scholarships are available to help cover the cost. To apply, visit the Indy Parks website.
Pools will open for the summer in late May and early June.
