New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is recruiting lifeguards for its Adirondack and Catskills regions beaches. DEC is holding free lifeguard exams beginning January 9. Those individuals looking for summer employment who enjoy the outdoors are encouraged to learn more about DEC’s summer recreation opportunities.

Seasonal lifeguard positions are available at DEC campgrounds throughout the beautiful Adirondack and Catskill parks this summer. The current hourly rate for state DEC lifeguards is approximately $13.27 and some facilities do offer free housing.   DEC employment opportunities in summer recreation also offer the opportunity to join the state system with potential retirement investment options.

Tests will be given to individuals 16 and older interested in lifeguard jobs at DEC facilities this summer and will be offered through June 12, 2016. Candidates who pass the examination will be considered for employment. Testing includes an in-water demonstration of lifesaving techniques and performance of the Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) single rescuer procedure. The exam may be taken at the DEC testing location most convenient to the applicant, and the results will be forwarded to the preferred work location.

At the time of employment, all DEC lifeguards must:

• Be at least 16 years old;
• Possess a valid certification in Waterfront Lifeguarding, CPR for the Professional Rescuer and Healthcare Provider, and First Aid (if not included in the lifeguard training course);
• Have successfully completed the New York State DEC lifeguard exam;
• Have complete a personal interview with DEC;
• Have attended one of the DEC lifeguard orientations;
• Submitted a current certification of the applicant’s physical ability to perform lifeguard duties;
• Meet the vision requirement of 20/70 uncorrected in both eyes and be correctable to the 20/40 standard. Candidates tested at a vision level below 20/40 in either one or both eyes must correct to a minimum of 20/40 with 20/20 preferred.

Exams will begin on time and late arrivals will not be accepted. Candidates will be given a 15 minute warm-up period to become familiar with the pool and testing equipment. Candidates must bring their own CPR mask.                                        

Below is a list of the 2016 exam locations and dates:

DEC reserves the right to cancel any exam. For more information, updates, or to pre-register, call 518-457-2500 ext. #1, e-mail DEC at Info.LifeGuard@dec.ny.gov, or visit DEC’s website at http://www.dec.ny.gov/about/726.html##LifeguardPositions.