MA Offers Bigger Bonuses To Lifeguards For Summer 2023 Work

MASSACHUSETTS — State recreation officials are already thinking about summer — so they can to avoid a potential lifeguard shortage during the swimming months.

The state Department of Conservation and Recreation said Thursday it will offer cumulative bonuses up to $1,250 to entice lifeguards to work through the summer months. That's $250 higher than bonuses offered last summer.

The state is also boosting hourly pay. Last summer, lifeguard pay started at $21 per hour. This year, the pay will range from $22 to $23 per hour for lifeguards, and $26 to $27 for lifeguard supervisors.

Lifeguard shortages in recent summers meant that many popular state swimming sites either went unguarded or didn't get full staffing until later in the summer. DCR operates dozens of beaches from the Atlantic coast to pools and freshwater beaches across central and western Massachusetts.

To get the larger bonus this year, lifeguard candidates must complete an application by May 1 to be eligible for a $500 signing bonus ($250 if you sign up by July 1). Candidates who stay on the job through Aug. 20 get another $500 — plus $250 more for guards who stay through Labor Day weekend.

On top of bonuses and higher hourly pay, the state provides free lifeguard training classes valued at $400. Any resident over ago 16 who can meet the certification requirements can apply for a lifeguarding job now.