The City of Bellevue is looking to fill 60 new and returning lifeguard positions for the upcoming summer season.
Lifeguards are required to have a current American Red Cross lifeguard certification and must be at least 16 years old to work at the Bellevue Aquatic Center and Bellevue’s several beach parks.
Rates for lifeguards begin at $17.25 an hour and increase based on experience and years in the position. The City of Bellevue is offering a $75 hiring bonus for all new and rehired lifeguards and the opportunity for an additional $175 based on the number of hours worked, a release noted.
Washington is currently reporting a shortage of certified lifeguards. Bellevue officials are hoping to find enough qualified candidates to keep all recreational water locations fully staffed and open for the 2023 season.
For those looking to obtain lifeguard certification in Washington, qualifications include a two-year American Red Cross lifeguard certification and a two-year American Red Cross first aid and CPR/automated defibrillator certification, which can be completed through between 22-27 hours of hybrid and in-person learning environments. Certifications are available in lifeguarding, aquatic attraction lifeguarding, and shallow water lifeguarding.
Certified lifeguards must be able to swim 300 continuous yards, tread water for two minutes using only their legs, and complete a set of timed drills.
For additional information about obtaining a lifeguard certification in Washington, visit the American Red Cross website here.
For additional information about lifeguarding opportunities with the City of Bellevue, contact recreation supervisor Patrick Simmons at (425) 452-4444.