Press Release  DCR Opens Applications for Lifeguards, with Up to $1,250 in Bonuses and Higher Wages

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) today announced it is now accepting applications for summer lifeguards, swim instructors, and other roles across the Commonwealth. This year, DCR is offering bonuses of up to $1,250 for qualified lifeguard applicants that commit to working at an agency beach or pool for the 2023 season. DCR is also increasing the hourly rate for lifeguards and pool staff for the 2023 season to between $22 and $27 depending on position and associated certifications.  

"Every year, lifeguards and swim instructors help the Commonwealth operate dozens of pools and waterfronts for families to swim and cool off in the summer,” said Governor Maura Healey. “These are great jobs for residents looking to work outside, earn good pay, and be a part of a great team. I encourage anyone interested to apply and take advantage of this fun and rewarding opportunity.”  

“Governor Healey and I love getting outside and staying active, and it’s important to us that every community has access to safe and easy recreational activities like swimming,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “We hope these bonuses and hourly wage increase will attract lifeguards to commit to this critical public safety role for the entire season so we can continue to provide a safe environment for visitors all summer.” 

“As our summers get hotter, DCR’s pools and shorelines provide a vital place for families to cool off,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca L. Tepper. “Staffing up these community resources is a matter of equity, and the Healey-Driscoll Administration is committed to hiring a full team of lifeguards to ensure state beaches and pools are safe.”   

DCR’s Bureau of Pool and Waterfront Safety is actively recruiting lifeguards, head lifeguards, pool and waterfront supervisors and water safety instructors to staff agency-managed waterfronts and swimming pools throughout the Commonwealth. DCR lifeguards are trained to prevent injuries and respond in the event of an emergency to help save a life. Lifeguards must work as a team to calmly and efficiently manage potential crisis situations and help ensure the safety of all visitors. To apply to be a DCR lifeguard visit the agency’s website.  

DCR is offering an early sign-on bonus of $500 to candidates who submit a complete lifeguard application by Monday, May 1, 2023, and $250 for candidates who submit a complete application by Saturday, July 1, 2023. Additionally, the agency is offering a $500 retention bonus that will be provided to lifeguards who commit to working for the department through Sunday, August 20, 2023, and an additional $250 for those who work through Monday, September 4, 2023.  

"DCR is committed to making our pools and waterfronts safe for children and families to visit and enjoy,” said DCR Commissioner Doug Rice. “Every year, we recruit hundreds of lifeguards to ensure the safety of swimmers. By offering these bonuses and pay raises we’re able to jumpstart this process so that we have a trained staff when swimming season begins.” 

To be considered for a DCR lifeguard position, applicants must be at least 16 years of age by the date of hire, must complete lifeguard training, and must be certified in first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The agency offers free training classes and certification to lifeguards who commit to DCR summer employment prior to the opening of designated swimming areas. Training and certification dates and locations are listed at mass.gov/lifeguards for qualified candidates.  

Additionally, DCR offers free Learn to Swim lessons at several agency-managed pools across the state. Classes are designed for beginner-level swimmers and focus on water safety education and basic swimming skills. 

Other safety measures at several waterfronts and designated swimming areas include water quality testing, ropes and buoys to mark safe swimming areas, safety signage that can be translated into seven languages using a QR code, and life rings for the public to use in the event of an emergency. 

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