The Chicago Park District is hosting a March Lifeguard Skills Swim Test when students are home for spring Break and are available to attend the test. The 2026 beach season starts Friday, May 22nd, 2026. The test will take place on Saturday, March 28th at 9a.m., at Whitney Young High School, 211 S. Laflin St. The Lifeguard Skills test includes: 200-yeard timed swim, 20-yard underwater swim, and retrieve underwater object. After successfully completing the test, candidates are conditionally hired and assigned to an American Red Cross certification class. The Chicago Park District will provide a $400 stipend for the completion of the required course for first-time applicants, and a $100 stipend for returning seasonal lifeguards. The Lifeguard Explorers Training Program is in partnership with After School Matters. Swimmers must be 16 years of age by July 1, 2026, and a resident of the City of Chicago to work this summer. The starting pay rate for seasonal lifeguards hired for the 2026 season will be $20.50 an hour. For more information, and to register, visit https://bit.ly/ApplyNOW-Lifeguard.

Photo Credit: Chicago Park District