Now Hiring: Lifeguards!

Summer jobs are a rite of passage and a sign that teens are transitioning to adulthood. Most importantly, they are also a way to earn extra money for college, special interests, and activities. They offer a taste of the real world, and help develop the important skills, of punctuality, responsibility, and dedication. There are two types of summer jobs: those you can't wait to get to everyday and those you can't wait to be over everyday. Forbes ranks lifeguarding among the ten best summer jobs for kids.

Lifeguarding is one of the most important jobs a young person can hold. While the responsibilities are great, there are so many positive aspects to the job; many consider it the best summer job they have ever had. Lifeguarding provides an important public service: ensuring the safety of patrons by preventing and responding to emergencies. It takes a high level of maturity and professionalism, skills that are important in life, long after the pools close. Lifeguards are also positive role models for younger children in the community. Every day is an opportunity to make a difference, promote safety, help others, and still have fun.

The Des Plaines Park District is looking for summer lifeguards to work at its pools from May 31 through August 24.

To be employed as a Des Plaines Park District lifeguard for the summer pool season, applicants must be at least 16 years old by June 1, 2014 and meet the following swimming requirements:

•Be able to tread water for one minute using their legs only.

•Be able to swim 100 yards continuously, using front crawl or breaststroke.

•Be able to retrieve a ten-pound brick from a depth of twelve feet and swim to the side.

Applicants must then successfully complete the Jeff Ellis & Associates National Lifeguard Training Program that includes water safety and rescue technique training, CPR, First Aid, AED certification, and oxygen support training. No previous experience is required.

The next training session is June 9-13, from 4:00-8:00pm at Iroquois Pool, 2324 Maple Street at Touhy Avenue. Applicants can register for the class and apply for a lifeguard job online at www.DPParks.org. Starting salary is above the minimum wage.

"Des Plaines Park District lifeguards are fortunate to train with Jason Mata, who has been working at and managing our pools since 1998. Jason has also worked nationally with Jeff Ellis & Associates and has a deep understanding of what is required to safely serve the community," said Jennifer Boys, Assistant Superintendent of Recreation. "If you are physically fit, a confident swimmer, and a people person who would enjoy having the pool as your office view, you might be a good candidate for a lifeguard," said Matt Hartnett, Aquatics Manager.

For more information about becoming a Des Plaines Park District lifeguard, visit www.DPParks.org.