State Parks seeking lifeguards

It’s never too early to start thinking about summer. The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation has announced four lifeguard qualifying procedures are scheduled in the Niagara Region for the 2019 season.

Lifeguard positions in the Niagara Region will be available at Beaver Island, Evangola, Fort Niagara and Wilson-Tuscarora state parks. However, lifeguards are needed statewide, and qualifiers taken locally can be used for employment elsewhere in New York. Lifeguards in State Parks start at $13.27 an hour.

Successful completion of this qualifying procedure is required for anyone wishing to work as a lifeguard at any New York state park. The qualifier includes demonstrated experience in CPR and swimming skills.

Tests will take place at Niagara University and Hamburg High school on the following dates:

Niagara University: March 9, April 6 and June 1

Hamburg High School: May 11

Tests at both locations begin at 8:30 a.m. and are free of cost.

Prior to employment, successful candidates must be at least 16 years of age and furnish proof of completion of CPR for the Professional and completion of the American Red Cross 1994 Revised Lifeguard Training, which includes first-aid, with a certificate for the waterfront module or equivalent courses. Successful candidates will also need a physician's certification of adequate physical fitness, including a minimum of 20/40 uncorrected vision after receiving a conditional job offer.

For more information or to register for a test, contact Melissa Emhardt at 716-278-1761 or by text at 716-319-8100. For specific information regarding the test, visit www.nysparks.com/employment/lifeguards/default.aspx.