Wickliffe Recruits Summer Lifeguards, Covers Training Costs | The Locally Times
Wickliffe's Recreation Department seeks lifeguards and pool staff for Summer 2026, providing Red Cross certification and potential reimbursement for full-time employees.
Want a summer job that pays you to save lives? Wickliffe is recruiting lifeguards for Summer 2026, offering free Red Cross certification and potential reimbursement for training costs. The Wickliffe Recreation Department is actively seeking staff for its pools and spray park. Positions include lifeguards, attendants, and pool maintenance staff, according to an announcement from the City of Wickliffe expected June 1, 2026. ## Opportunities for Summer Employment The recruitment drive aims to ensure Wickliffe's aquatic facilities operate fully all summer. Lifeguard applicants must be at least 15 years old and either possess current certification or be able to obtain it by their first week of employment. To facilitate this, the city will offer a Red Cross Lifeguard Certification class at the Wickliffe Aquatic Center. Applications for all roles are being accepted until June 1, 2026, or until all positions are filled, according to the upcoming June 1 City announcement. ## Investing in Lifesaving Skills The Red Cross Lifeguard Certification class, held at the Wickliffe Aquatic Center, will train participants in lifesaving techniques and leadership skills. While specific dates and times are set to be announced, the course is an American Red Cross Blended Learning Lifeguard program. Prospective lifeguards must pass a swimming prerequisite skills test on the first day, which includes a 150-yard swim, two minutes of treading water without arms in deep water, and a 50-yard swim. Another skill assessment involves a 20-yard swim from shallow to deep water, diving to retrieve a 10-pound brick, and swimming back. The certification, valid for two years, also includes CPR and First Aid. The City of Wickliffe plans to reimburse certification or recertification costs for full-time employees who complete 240 hours of work by the end of the summer season, as detailed in the forthcoming June 1 City announcement. A re-certification class for CPR and First Aid only will also be available. ## Supporting Community Summer Programs Staffing the aquatic facilities directly supports broader community programming, including the Wickliffe Summer Day Camp. This eight-week outdoor program, scheduled from June 8 through July 31, 2026 (excluding July 3rd), is for children entering grades 1 through 6. The camp runs Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering games, swimming, sports, contests, crafts, and nature activities. Campers must purchase a pool pass from the Coulby Aquatic Center before their first week. Certified lifeguards are essential for the safe operation of these aquatic programs, ensuring residents have access to summer recreation. ## Key Questions **Who is eligible to apply for lifeguard positions?** Individuals aged 15 years or older who possess or can obtain lifeguard certification by their first week of employment. **How can I get lifeguard certified through the city?** The City of Wickliffe will offer a Red Cross Lifeguard Certification class at the Wickliffe Aquatic Center. Specific dates will be announced. **Will the city cover the cost of certification?** The city plans to reimburse the cost of certification or recertification for full-time employees who complete 240 hours of work by the end of the summer season.