DEC Announces Free Lifeguard Qualifying Procedures to Begin in February
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced free lifeguard-qualifying procedures to begin Saturday, February 4, 2023. Individuals 15 years and older interested in lifeguarding positions at DEC facilities this summer are eligible to register.
The qualifying procedures consist of two parts: a cardio-pulmonary (CPR) skills component, and a water skills evaluation. Candidates may attend the qualifying locations most convenient to them, and the results will be forwarded to their preferred work location.
Seasonal lifeguard positions are available at DEC campgrounds throughout the Adirondacks and Catskill parks. The current hourly starting rate for New York State lifeguards is $20 an hour, and most DEC facilities offer free housing or site accommodations.
At the time of employment, all DEC lifeguards must:
- Be at least 15 years old
- Possess a valid certificate in waterfront skills, lifeguarding, first aid, and CPR for Professional Rescuers or equivalent
- Have successfully completed the NYS lifeguarding qualifying procedure
- Submit a current NYS DEC medical form stating the candidate’s physical ability to perform lifeguarding duties
- Meet the vision requirements 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
- Complete a personal interview with the DEC
- Attend lifeguarding orientation
2023 Lifeguarding Qualifying Dates & Locations:
| Date | Time | Location | Address | City |
| Saturday, Feb. 4 | 9 a.m. | Franklin Academy | 42 Huskie Lane | Malone |
| Friday, Feb. 24 | 4:30 p.m. | Gloversville Middle School | 234 Lincoln Street | Gloversville |
| Saturday, Feb. 25 | 9 a.m. | Queensbury Elementary School | 431 Aviation Road | Queensbury |
| Friday, March 3 | 4 p.m. | Catskill Recreation Center | 651 County Hwy 38 | Arkville |
| Monday, April 10 | 9 a.m. | Gloversville Middle School | 234 Lincoln Street | Gloversville |
| Friday, April 14 | 4:30 p.m. | Gloversville Middle School | 234 Lincoln Street | Gloversville |
| Saturday, April 29 | 9 a.m. | Moriah Central School | 39 Viking Lane | Port Henry |
| Friday, May 26 | 4 p.m. | Catskill Recreation Center | 651 County Hwy 38 | Arkville |
| Saturday, June 3 | 9 a.m. | Gloversville Middle School | 234 Lincoln Street | Gloversville |
| Saturday, June 24 | 9 a.m. | Moriah Central School | 39 Viking Lane | Port Henry |
Qualifying procedures will begin on time, and late arrivals will not be accepted. Candidates must bring photo ID, current certifications (if available), and their own CPR mask and one-way valve. DEC reserves the right to cancel, and is an equal opportunity employer.
For more information, updates or to pre register, call (518) 457-2500 Extension 1, email DEC at info.Lifeguarding@dec.ny.gov, or visit the employment opportunities on summer recreation webpage on the DEC’s website.