Junior Lifeguard Program Information
General Information
Age Groups: A, B, C (Children can move up an age group if they are physically and mentally ready; however, they cannot move down an age group.)
A: 15-17 years old
B: 13-14 years old
C: 9-12 years old
Where: Pismo State Beach, Grand Avenue entrance in Grover Beach. Just before you get to the kiosk, turn right into the parking lot by Fins Restaurant. (If you drove onto the beach, you went too far.) The Oceano Dunes Junior Lifeguard banner, kids, instructors, and equipment will be seen.
Why: The Junior Lifeguard Program is a unique and challenging aquatic program to educate community youth about safe ocean recreation. Our goal is to maintain a safe and enjoyable beach environment by educating future generations about coastal currents, swells, aquatic life, and self-rescue. Prevention is the best form of lifeguarding.
Develop Ocean Safety! Learn about the local environment! Have fun!
When:
Session I: June 9-27
Program Fees:*
* Fees subject to change. Tuition assistance may be available.
How to Prepare for Junior Lifeguards
EQUIPMENT
Jr. Guards are encouraged to bring their wetsuits, fins, surfboards, and body boards each day. Jr. Guards will have the opportunity to use these items during free time.
UNIFORM
Blue Swim Trunks
White T-Shirt with JG logo
Blue Sweatshirt with JG logo
ADDITIONAL CLOTHING
Protective foot wear
Sweatshirt/pants for cool days
Beach towel
SUN PROTECTION
Hat
Rashguard
Sun Screen (SPF 30+)
Sun Screen Lip Balm
GEAR BAG
Used to store possessions while on the beach. A bag that zips or has the ability to be tightly closed.
LUNCH
Our program requires a great deal of energy and for that reason we schedule water and snack breaks along with a lunch break into our day. Please send a healthy lunch and plenty of WATER with your child. To make as little impact on the environment as possible please consider bringing ‘waste free’ lunches and reusable drink containers. We also recommend that lunches be secured in a seagull proof container.
TRYOUT SWIM
Equipment and materials to bring to tryout:
Swimsuit
Towel
Goggles (optional)
Email confirmation of registration from https://www.reservecalifornia.com/
JG Aides
ODJG Aides:
This opportunity is highly recommended to those JG's who are interested in tryingout as a State Lifeguard the following year (which the minimum age is 15).
***Please have your child send an email of interest, stating why they would be a good candidate and what their applicable experience is to Kaitlyn.tolin@parks.ca.gov if they would like to tryout.
JG Aide inquiries must be sent prior to Registration, all program fees are waived if the applicant passes testing and sends their email of interest.
The tryout will be held on Day 1 of the Session they desire to be an aide. See swim test below.
Position Description:
This uniformed position will work under close supervision of the Junior Lifeguard Program Supervisor and report directly to an assigned Junior Lifeguard Program Instructor during the operating hours of the Junior Lifeguard Program. The incumbents will work with Lifeguard Staff and other Park Personnel in order to develop job skills, proper work habits, and leadership qualities through work experience.
Requirements:
- Minimum age is 15 years at time of appointment.
- Currently enrolled in an accredited high school or equivalent educational program.
- Willingness to work all necessary weekdays during the Junior Lifeguard Program operating hours (must be present for at least one session).
- Physical strength and endurance necessary to complete the following:
- Competitive 500 yard ocean swim.
- Competitive 100 yard run, 200 yard swim, 100 yard swim.
- Showed a professional attitude with at least one prior year of JG experience.
Desirable Qualities:
- The ability to get along well with others and work within a work-group of highly
motivated professionals. - Willingness to follow directions and perform a variety of manual, instructional, or clerical tasks.
- A desire to develop job skills, proper work habits, and leadership qualities related to Lifeguard and other Park employment.
15% INSTRUCTION AND INTERPRETATION
Works with and assists staff in the facilitation of daily operation of the Junior Lifeguard Program under the direct supervision of a Junior Lifeguard Instructor and the Program Lifeguard II. Assists the program instructors in the aquatic safety interpretation process while developing leadership qualities and self-esteem through Team Building and Empowerment. Strives for a safe, professional, team oriented work environment and program that is free from sexual harassment, hostility, racial discrimination, or negative influences.
15% LEADERSHIP
Through work experience and training, the incumbent will develop skills in leadership, coaching, training, educating, and directing of Junior Lifeguard Program participants by being part of a high-performance, team based work group. Will at all times serve as a role model for the participants in the Junior Lifeguard Program.
10% LIFEGUARD OPERATIONS
In accordance to DPR State Lifeguard standards, will develop skills in and familiarization with the Lifeguard Operations program, aquatic rescue procedures, rescue detection, first aid, CPR, Communicable Disease Prevention, and patient care. Learn about proper use of rescue equipment. Under close supervision will participate with trained lifeguard personnel in aquatic patrol in order to develop understanding and on the job experience. Methods of patrol may include: vehicle, tower, rescue boat, foot patrol, swimming, and rescue paddleboards.
60 % MAINTENANCE
Ability and willingness to participate in the daily maintenance of the Junior Lifeguard Program facilities and equipment. Develop familiarity and skills in maintenance of facilities, equipment and clean-up of the program area.