Southampton Town Parks and Recreation officials renewed their annual call to arms this week, announcing their latest recruitment drive for the municipality’s eastern beaches.
Employees hired as lifeguards and beach attendants typically demonstrate a good work ethic, high morale, and their satisfaction with the sought-after seasonal positions. However, despite the competitive pay and energetic work environment, time and geographic constraints often leave the Town short-staffed at facilities east of the Shinnecock Canal.
In response, parks personnel have created lifeguard certification classes to allow new hires to take advantage of training closer to home. The initiative is a product of the Town’s partnership with STAR Aqua Center, which offers scholarships to cover the full cost of certification and further their mission of promoting water safety. (Applicants can be visit www.staraquacenter.org to learn more).
“It has historically been more difficult to recruit staff to work in the eastern parts of the Town, where we have four ocean beaches and one bay beach,” said Kristen Doulos, the Town’s Parks Director. “So we’re really excited to be able to offer a course in Bridgehampton this spring.”
In addition to courses at Suffolk Community College’s Northampton campus (starting 5/13), classes will also be held at Bridgehampton Tennis & Bath (starting on 5/27), where ages 15 and older can get their non-surf certification and work on the bay at Foster Memorial “Long Beach” in Noyac. Participants ages 16 and older can sign-up for surf certification and work at the Town’s ocean beaches such as Sagg Main, Mecox, Scott Cameron, and Flying Point.
“Becoming a lifeguard is a rewarding experience,” continued Doulos, adding that Beach Manager, Assistant Beach Manager, and Beach Attendant positions are also available. “In our training program, you’ll develop valuable skills that will last a lifetime in any profession.”
With the initial certifications, individuals can start working as early as May 24. And as town employees, anyone hired will have the option to join the New York State Local Retirement System (NYSLRS).
For more information regarding class schedules, salary, and other benefits, please visit www.southamptontownny.gov/1043/Want-to-be-a-lifeguard
