Press Release  DCR Ramps Up Lifeguard Recruitment Ahead of the Summer Season

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) today announced a renewed push to recruit certified lifeguards, swim instructors, and other roles across the Commonwealth ahead of the summer season. Certified lifeguard applicants that commit to working at an agency beach or pool for the 2023 season can still earn up to $1,000 in bonuses, in addition to the hourly rate increase for lifeguards and pool staff to between $22 and $27 depending on position and associated certifications.  

“As a former lifeguard, I know it’s a great summer job – you make good money, spend your days outside, and help save lives,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “Governor Healey and I are committed to providing a safe and fun experience for families looking to spend time at our beautiful coastal beaches and pools this summer. We encourage anyone who is interested and is a good swimmer to apply to be a DCR lifeguard this summer.” 

“DCR beaches are popular places for children and families of all abilities across our state to visit and enjoy as they seek relief from the summer heat,” said Commissioner Brian Arrigo. “As the start of summer approaches, we are ramping up our efforts to ensure we have a full staff of lifeguards to keep our beach visitors safe. Interested applicants can still earn more than $1,000 in bonuses on top of this year’s hourly pay bump for lifeguards, if they commit to staying on as a DCR lifeguard throughout the summer.” 

DCR’s Bureau of Pool and Waterfront Safety is still actively recruiting lifeguards, head lifeguards, pool and waterfront supervisors, and water safety instructors to staff agency-managed waterfronts and swimming pools throughout the Commonwealth for the 2023 season. Lifeguards are essential for managing pool and beach areas and addressing potential crisis situations to ensure the safety of all visitors. 

Bonuses are still available for this season, including an early sign-on bonus of $250 for candidates who submit a complete application by Saturday, July 1, as well as a $500 retention bonus for lifeguards who commit to working through Sunday, August 20, and an additional $250 for those who work through Monday, September 4. To apply to be a DCR lifeguard, visit the agency’s website. 

As part of the agency’s campaign to boost lifeguard recruitment, DCR is working with Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll and partner state agencies, state and local elected officials, and municipalities to spread the word to communities across the state. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is running lifeguard recruitment announcements on electronic messaging boards on roadways in more than 40 Massachusetts towns and cities and the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) is running recruitment advertising in stations across the system. DCR is also running lifeguard recruitment radio PSAs.  

To be considered for a DCR lifeguard position, applicants must be at least 16 years of age by the date of hire and must be certified in lifeguarding, first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). DCR is also hiring for other summer seasonal positions for Memorial Day through Labor Day, including rangers, park interpreters, supervisors, forestry assistants, building and ground maintenance workers, and office assistance. For more information, interested applicants should visit www.mass.gov/guides/dcr-seasonaljobs 

Areas where lifeguards are needed include:  

• Salisbury Beach in Salisbury;
• Raymond Lord Pool in Lowell;
• Geisler and Higgins Pools in Lawrence;
• Revere Beach;
• Constitution Beach in East Boston;
• Walden Pond in Concord;
• Ryan Wading Pool in Mattapan;
• Olsen Swimming Pool in Hyde Park;
• Wollaston Beach in Quincy;
• Pleasure Bay, Children’s Beach, Carson Beach and M Street Beach in South Boston;
• Bennett Field Pool in Worcester;
• Leominster State Forest; and
• Daughters of the American Revolution State Forest in Goshen.

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