Three questions for you, TBAY.
- Did you know that certified lifeguards save more than one million lives each year?
- How would you like to be part of that life-saving team?
- Do you have what it takes to join T-Baywatch?
Right now, the Tampa Bay area is facing a lifeguard shortage, which impacts both year-round and seasonal public pools and beaches. The scarcity is part of a larger trend affecting cities nationwide.
The City of Tampa is hoping to fill 80 or more aquatic leader positions by Memorial Day, and Pinellas County is looking to hire between 25-35 beach lifeguards.
So you want to become a lifeguard?
In Hillsborough, interested individuals must pass a swim test and participate in an interview before undergoing training to become certified lifeguards. Don’t worry, the classes teach the basics. The pay ranges from $15.21-$21.72 per hour.
Open pool positions:
- Loretta Ingraham Pool, 1611 N. Hubert Ave., Tampa
- Cuscaden Pool, 2900 N. 15th St., Tampa
In Pinellas, you have to have your American Red Cross Lifeguard Training Certification or equivalent training/experience. But upon hire, new lifeguards receive extensive training. The hourly rate ranges from $18-$20.52.
Open beach positions:
- Fred Howard Park, 1700 Sunset Dr., Tarpon Springs
- Sand Key Park, 1060 Gulf Blvd., Clearwater
- Fort DeSoto Park, 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde
You might just be the next David Hasselhoff or Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. Which version of “Baywatch” do you like the most? Let us know here.
