Since the pandemic, labor shortages have made it difficult for many industries to get back to full capacity. That’s especially applied to aquatics and the need to full staff pools with people who can provide assistance to those having trouble swimming.
That’s a problem again in Charlottesville according to Planning Commissioner Hosea Mitchell who sits on the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board.
“We are worried that we may not be able to open full-time, all the pools open full-time, during the coming season,” Mitchell said.
Riann Anthony, the city’s interim parks and recreation director, said in an email that he is hoping to recruit between 15 and 20 additional lifeguards.
Mitchell said recruitment efforts are underway. According to the city’s jobs page, there are two classifications for lifeguard and one at the higher level can make up $40,560 a year if they work as lifeguard full-time. (look up the job)
Albemarle County is also seeking lifeguards for their beaches and offer a bonus of up to $550. They’ll also help cover the cost to become certified.
“We need your help guarding our swimming lakes and at Chris Greene, Mint Springs and Walnut Creek Lake Parks,” reads a notice sent out earlier this month.
Pay for starting lifeguards begins at $16 an hour and head lifeguards get $18.
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