Chicago Opens 2027 Summer Lifeguard Applications

The city is recruiting staff for its 22 beaches and 77 pools ahead of the 2027 summer season.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Swimming

Screen-print poster illustration of an empty wooden lifeguard chair and a red rescue buoy on a beach, evoking seasonal city services. — The Chicago Park District has opened lifeguard and shallow water attendant applications for its 99 public swimming facilities this summer. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Chicago Park District has officially opened applications for summer lifeguard and shallow water attendant positions. The initiative aims to secure staffing for the city's extensive network of pools and beaches for the upcoming summer.

Why it matters

Active recruitment is essential for the Chicago Park District to ensure its 99 total aquatic facilities are properly staffed and safe for public use throughout the warm season.

Lifeguards will earn $21.25 per hour while shallow water attendants receive $18.52, with a $200 stipend offered for completing certification training. Applicants must clear a 200-yard timed swim and a 20-yard underwater swim test.

The players

Chicago Park District

This local government agency manages the recreational facilities, including 22 beaches and 77 pools, throughout Chicago.

The details

Candidates must pass a swim skills test to qualify for employment and complete an American Red Cross Blended Learning Waterfront Lifeguard Training Course. Shallow water attendants are tasked with supervising water playgrounds and pools with depths of four feet or less.

November 13, 2026: The first swim skills test at Whitney Young High School.
March 1, 2027: The date the Park District begins assigning staff to specific locations.
Summer 2027: The operational season for city beaches and swimming pools.

Season Trajectory

This recruitment drive sets the foundation for the city's summer aquatic capacity by filling hundreds of essential safety roles. The timeline ensures that staffing is finalized well before the peak beach season demands increase.

Interested candidates must successfully complete a 200-yard timed swim and a 20-yard underwater swim to remain eligible for the hourly pay rates. Those who are hired receive an additional $200 stipend upon completion of the required safety training certification.

The takeaway

Prospective applicants should prepare for the physical requirements of the swimming test well in advance of the November date. Securing these roles early helps the district maintain full operations for public swimming facilities next summer.