I’m sure I’m not the only one who has found themselves eyeing up a lifeguard and then thinking about how great their job would be.
Pool-side lifeguards get to spend time in the sun (at outdoor pools anyway), surrounded by hot looking people and get paid well to do it.
Obviously there’s a more serious element to the job: the safety of the people in the water.
If you think you could handle the responsibility, there’s plenty of jobs available throughout Oz over the summer months. But how do you get started? In order to become a pool lifeguard there are a few different qualifications you need.
However, don’t fret, there are courses available in Australia where you can gain them all in one foul swoop. The Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre (SOPAC) is running a course that teaches you all you need to know.
The next Pool Lifeguard course runs from November 10 – November 14.
The course will set you back $400, but your chance of finding work after completion is high. “All participants who complete the course are guaranteed an interview with us for multiple positions we have at the centre,” says Mark Mason, operations manager at the Aquatic Centre.
Also once you have the qualifications you are able to work as a pool lifeguard anywhere in Australia. However, if you want to become a surf lifeguard, the qualifications are different. For more information visit www.slsa.com.au.
So who would make a good pool-side lifeguard? “We are looking for diligence, motivation, good people skills and an ability to think on your feet in a challenging environment,” says Mark.
When it comes to money lifeguarding can be very competitive.
“Dependant on experience you can earn up to $25 per hour,” says Mark.
So, get on your “swimmers”, go save some money, save a life and then… savour it.
