City of Plano lifeguard invites other retirees to consider second career at Plano pools

Lifeguarding at the local pools is a quintessential summer job for teenagers, but during the off-season, those pools still need staffing! Who better to fill those vacant roles than retirees looking for a second career (or encore career) at Plano Recreation Center pools?

We spoke to retiree lifeguard John Caldwell who wants to share what it's like to be in this rewarding job at the local pools at his age. If you're interested in joining the Plano Parks and Recreation team, we are hosting a hiring event on March 9!

City of Plano: When did you retire?

Retiree Lifeguard John Caldwell: "I'm 72. I took voluntary early retirement from JCPenney Corporate in 2012 and have been a Plano ISD sub since 2013."

CoP: Were you a lifeguard before working for the City of Plano?

John: "I was a lifeguard during my college years at a large pool in a state park.?I enjoyed working with the other guards.?In May 2021, there were national and local news stories on TV telling that pools were going to reduce their summer hours because they were having trouble finding enough lifeguards. I went to the Tom Muehlenbeck Recreation Center aquatic office and said I used to be a lifeguard and would like to apply. They asked 'How long ago were you a lifeguard??You may still be certified.' I replied '50 years.' We both decided that I would need to be re-certified."

CoP: What do you like about your job?

John: "I enjoy working at TMC. The facility is well-maintained, I have good big bosses, good bosses and I have confidence in my fellow guards. The pay is competitive and the hours are flexible. Along with skills such as deep water rescue, I’ve learned other skills such as the Heimlich Maneuver, CPR and how to start someone’s heart with an AED."

CoP: In your opinion, what makes retirees ideal lifeguard candidates?

John: "We show up, we know how to be productive and we have a broad perspective on life."

CoP: Talk about the training needed to be a lifeguard and why people shouldn't let the training deter them.

John: "Physical: You need to be able to swim 300 yards in the pool non-stop.? If you are not a strong swimmer, come practice.?The pool is open every day.?Mental: The certification course is free and it’s 4 days, 8 hours a day. You learn how to save people.?We practice every week to keep sharp."

CoP: Why do you need a good work ethic to be a lifeguard?

John: "Showing up is essential.?During part of the day, we have one guard on duty and one in reserve.?You can’t open the pool if there is no backup. TMC runs well because everyone shows up."

CoP: Is there anything else you'd like to add?

John: "I appreciate the flexible hours. I can block the times when I don’t want to work and request the times that I want to work."

CoP: What is your advice to other seniors looking for a part-time job at the pools?

John: "Come join me. It’s fun and it keeps you alert."

Plano Parks and Recreation is hosting a Hiring Event on March 9, 2024 to help with summer staffing. If you're interested in being hired but not sure which position would be a good fit, fill out a job interest form and someone will contact you!