Los Angeles County lifeguards are getting a raise as the Department of Parks and Recreation tries to recruit candidates to fill current openings.

Hourly wages for pool lifeguards now falls between $23.87 and $25.87, while lake lifeguards can expect wages in the range of $28.89 and $30.50 following certification.

The new hourly wages are the highest in the region, officials said.

Los Angeles County needs to hire about 500 lifeguards for the summer swim season and changes, in addition to increased pay, are being made to entice more applicants.

LA County Parks says the hiring process has been streamlined this year and the age and swim test requirements have been lowered to address the openings.

Norma E. García-González, Director of LA County Parks, said aggressive outreach efforts have included visits to hundreds of high schools, community colleges and community events across Los Angeles County.

“Our goal is to ensure that all youth 16 years old and above have the opportunity to become lifeguards, providing them with a pathway to earn competitive wages and embark on a promising career within the County,” García-González said. “Our commitment is to hire diverse youth and foster an inclusive, safe and fun summer pool season.”

LA County Parks is conducting lifeguard swim tests now through May 18 to identify qualified candidates. Those interested in becoming eligible as either a pool or lake lifeguard will need to apply online and participate in one of the scheduled swim tests.

Pool lifeguards are required to be at least 16 and able to swim 300 yards in six-and-a-half minutes or less. They will also have to pass an eye exam.

Standards for lake lifeguards are a bit higher. In addition to the age requirement and eye exam, lake lifeguards will need to swim 1,000 meters in 18 minutes or less and also have a valid California Class C driver’s license.

For more information about the recruitment process, and to find swim test dates and locations, click here.