
This is a Dual Notice of Job Opportunity for Lifeguard and Shallow Water Attendant.
See below for additional information.
Title: Lifeguard
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS Under immediate supervision, ensures the safety and supervision of swimmers at Park District aquatics locations. Assists in swimming instructions and other organized aquatic activities. Performs related duties as required.
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Training and Experience: Completion of at least two years of High School is recommended.
Certification Requirements at time of hire:
American Red Cross Lifeguarding certificate to include:
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Knowledge of lifesaving and lifeguarding methods and techniques. Ability to meet and deal with the public. Ability to swim and dive proficiently. Ability to administer first aid and CPR to victims needing such attention.
As a seasonal Chicago Park District employee in a position covered by the District’s Agreement with SEIU Local 73, eligible employees receive the following benefits:
SEIU-Local 73 Career Service EEO: Protective Service FLSA: Non-Exempt
Rate of pay: $20.50 per hour
*** NOTICE:*** Applicants who apply for this Lifeguard position who complete the 200-yard swim test in 3 minutes, 30 seconds to 4 minutes, 30 seconds will also be considered for the Shallow Water Attendant position, with an hourly rate of $17.77.
Title: Shallow Water Attendant
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS: Under immediate supervision, ensures the safety and supervision of swimmers at Park District water playgrounds and mini pools with a depth of four feet or less. Performs related duties as required.
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Training and Experience: Completion of at least one year of High School is recommended.
Certification Requirements at time of hire:
American Red Cross Lifeguarding certificate, or American Red Cross Shallow Water Attendant certificate, or equivalent to include:
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Knowledge of lifesaving and life guarding methods and techniques. Ability to meet and deal with the public. Ability to swim and dive proficiently. Ability to administer first aid and CPR to victims needing such attention. Ability to pass physical skills test required.
As a seasonal Chicago Park District employee in a position covered by the District’s Agreement with SEIU Local 73, eligible employees receive the following benefits:
SEIU-Local 73 Career Service EEO: Protective Service FLSA: Non-Exempt
Rate of pay: $17.77 per hour

The Chicago Park District owns more than 8,700 acres of green space, making it the largest municipal park manager in the nation. The Chicago Park District’s 597 parks offer thousands of sports and physical activities as well as cultural and environmental programs for youth, adults, and seniors. The Chicago Park District is also responsible for 26 indoor pools, 51 outdoor pools, and 26 miles of lakefront including 23 swimming beaches plus one inland beach. From canoeing to batting cages to arts and crafts, there is never a shortage of activities to participate in Chicago’s parks.
The Chicago Park District oversees the Garfield Park and Lincoln Park conservatories, two tropical paradises within the city that house thousands of rare and exotic plants. Popular attractions that fall under the management of the Chicago Park District include the Clarence Buckingham Memorial Fountain. Proudly referred to as Chicago's front yard, Grant Park is among the city's loveliest and most prominent parks. Ten world-class museums are located on Chicago Park District property.
On October 14, 2014 the Chicago Park District received the 2014 National Gold Medal Award
for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management. This award is presented by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA).
The Chicago Park District's mission is:
- To enhance the quality of life in Chicago by becoming the leading provider of recreation and leisure opportunities
- To provide safe, inviting and beautifully maintained parks and facilities
- To create a customer-focused and responsive park system