NEDERLAND — Pool season is right around the corner and Nederland is looking for lifeguards.

While there’s not a dire need at this time there is a small deficit on the number of certified lifeguards. Currently there about nine, some of whom are in the hiring process, which includes a drug screen and background check. Last year, there were 19 lifeguards, Angela Fanette, director of parks and recreation, said.

“We are looking to hire Red Cross certified lifeguards. There are a number of locations in the area to obtain certification. The courses are 36 hours long and are scheduled differently, some from Monday through Friday and some weekends.”

There is a cost for the course and once hired the cost will be reimbursed.

Nederland City Manager Chris Duque said the city needs to maintain a certain number of lifeguards every year in order to cover the amount of hours of programs they have at the pool. This would include open swim, parties and special events.

“We raised our hourly wages in order to be competitive,” Duque said of the $10 per hour wage.

Fanette recently brought the issue to city council to make sure they knew the need for lifeguards.

“I don’t see us in a major panic situation,” she said.

The pool, located at Doornbos Park, will open for summer on Memorial Day weekend. Fanette said she wants the public to know they are still booking parties.

She considers being a lifeguard a rewarding job.

“I know myself it was an excellent job for me when I was a college student and as a high school student,” she said. “My daughter, who is 26 and in a different field, we encouraged her to obtain that (Red Cross) certification and she worked as a lifeguard for a few years.”

The parks and recreation director also believes the pool serves a need such as giving children a chance to be around water and a chance to learn how to swim and learn water safety.

Fanette said she would recommend lifeguarding to anyone looking for summer employment.

“Yes, you are working outside in the heat but you also get to take part in our Fourth of July event and get to work with kids and families. It’s very rewarding,” she said.

For more information about being a lifeguard, call Nederland Parks and Recreation Department at 724-0773.