DCR Ramps Up Recruitment for Lifeguards and Seasonal Staff for Summer 2025

DCR Ramps Up Recruitment for Lifeguards and Seasonal Staff for Summer 2025  

Candidates can earn up to $27 plus up to $1,250 in bonuses; additional roles for park rangers, interpreters and more  

BOSTON – The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) today announced open applications for lifeguards, head lifeguards, pool and waterfront supervisors, and water safety instructors for the 2025 summer season. These positions will serve at the agency’s 32 guarded beaches, 24 swimming pools, and two wading pools throughout the state. DCR offers competitive hourly wages ranging from $22 to $27, depending on the position and required certifications. In addition, qualified candidates who apply early and work through the end of the season can earn up to $1,250 in bonuses. 

“Our beaches welcome thousands of visitors each year, and lifeguards are key to ensuring a safe and fun experience,” said Governor Maura Healey. “As a DCR lifeguard, you’ll be at the heart of a high-energy, rewarding role that helps people enjoy their time while keeping them safe at our pools and waterfronts.”  

“I loved my time working as a lifeguard growing up – it's a fun and important job. You’ll spend your summer outside, make good money and maybe even save lives,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “Lifeguards are leaders in their communities – they are first responders who are trained to calmly and efficiently manage crisis situations at our waterfronts and pools. I encourage anyone who is interested to apply.”  

DCR is offering an early sign-on bonus of $500 for candidates who submit a complete hiring packet by Wednesday, May 1, 2025.  Lifeguards who stay through Sunday, August 17, 2025 – the end of the pool season – will receive a $250 retention bonus. Additionally, those who work through Labor Day, Monday September 1, 2025, marking the end of the beach season, will receive an extra $500 bonus. 

To apply for a lifeguard position, candidates must be at least 16 years old by their date of hire, complete lifeguard training, and be certified in first aid and CPR. DCR offers free lifeguard training classes through May for candidates who commit to working before the summer season begins. As first responders, lifeguards play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of visitors at state-managed beaches and pools.  

DCR will open its 81 designated swimming areas across Massachusetts Memorial Day Weekend (May 24-26, 2025), and the season will run through Labor Day (September 1, 2025). All DCR pools open in June and are equipped with accessible chair lifts and/or ramps to allow visitors of all abilities to enter the water. DCR also provides beach mats and floating beach wheelchairs at many of its beaches.   

“Climate changes is making our summers hotter than ever. That’s why safe access to our state pools and beaches is so important for families and residents. It is especially vital for our environmental justice communities,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “Lifeguards help our communities cool down on hot summer days. It’s all about keeping these communities safe while seeking relief from the heat.”  

“Every summer, thousands of families, residents, and visitors of all ages, abilities and backgrounds visit our beautiful beaches and pools,” said DCR Commissioner Arrigo. “Recruiting and hiring trained and qualified lifeguards is crucial to ensuring that our beaches and pools are safe and welcoming places for everyone. If you are a strong swimmer who is looking for a summer job, reach out to us and apply today.”  

Most of DCR’s pool and waterfront positions are seasonal, with a 40-hour work week, including weekends and holidays. Limited part-time lifeguard and instructor positions (up to 20 hours per week) may also be available. To learn more about available pool and waterfront positions or to apply for open positions, visit mass.gov/lifeguards. 

As part of the effort to recruit lifeguards and other pool and beach safety staff for the upcoming summer season, DCR is collaborating with partner state agencies, state and local elected officials, municipalities, and educational institutions to spread the word about this opportunity for good-paying summer employment. DCR’s lifeguard recruitment is a year-round effort. In the fall, DCR ran multilingual radio PSAs recruiting candidates to enroll in the agency’s free lifeguard training classes on JAMN945 and La Mega. Staff have also been promoting the job opportunities at job fairs and expos.      

DCR is also hiring for other seasonal positions for Memorial Day through Labor Day, including rangers, park interpreters, supervisors, forestry assistants, building and ground maintenance workers, and office assistance. Some positions will run from April through October. For more information, interested applicants should visit www.mass.gov/guides/dcr-seasonaljobs