Lifeguard Explorers

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Lifeguard paddling a rescue board in the ocean.  A motorboat is in the background.

Lifeguard Explorers is your pathway to becoming a Chicago Park District lifeguard.

The Chicago Park District is committed to identifying and training swimmers from around the city. In this new Lifeguard Explorers program, we will teach the required skills and provide supervised practice time needed to successfully pass the Lifeguard Skills Test. Passing the Lifeguard Skill test is a requirement to become a Chicago Park District Lifeguard.


Highlights
  • Learn the skills needed to pass the Lifeguard Skills Test
  • Swimming practice time included in each class
  • Paid training - receive $475 upon completion of the program

  • Completion of the program requires attending 15 classes, completing the lifeguard job application & taking the lifeguard skills test
  • Open to Chicago residents age 15-22
Class Details
  • 15 classes
  • Meets two days a week
  • 2025 Spring session dates:  March 31, 2025 - May 10, 2025
  • Locations:
    • Austin Town Hall Park, 5610 W. Lake St.
      Mon.:4:45 pm - 6:45 pm
      Tues.: 6:45 pm - 7:45 pm
      Saturday: 2:45 - 4:45 pm

      Register Now

    • Nash Park, 1833 E. 71st
      Mon., Wed., & Fri.: 4 - 6 pm

      Register Now

    • Homan Square Community Center Park, 3559 W. Arthington
      Monday: 5 pm - 7 pm
      Wed. & Fri.: 4:45 pm - 6:15 pm

      Register Now

    • LaFollette Park, 1333 N. Laramie Ave.
      Monday: 5 pm - 6:45 pm
      Saturday: 12 pm - 2 pm

      Register Now

  • Format
    • 15-minute warm-up
    • 60-minute swim
    • 30-minute lifeguard skills training
    • 15-minute closing

The Chicago Park District is committed to identifying and training swimmers from around the city. Successfully passing the test and completing the job application and applicant requirements for the Lifeguard position makes you eligible to be hired as a Chicago Park District Lifeguard!

Learn more about the lifeguard position & the application process: www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/lifeguards

For questions about the Lifeguard Explorers program call the Chicago Park District Aquatics Division at (312) 742-7801.