Lifeguard Exchange Program Overview

Staff Housing

Apartments are available beginning Friday, May 21, 2021 unless the employee has an earlier work start date OR the employee requests and receives approval for an earlier move-in. Housing locations are based on job assignment. We try to have staff live close enough to their pool in order to walk, bike, or use public transportation to get to work.

Typically our commercial apartment buildings will accommodate 2-3 people per bedroom in 2-3 bedroom apartments. We subsidize a portion of the rent and other costs (amenities, utilities, application fees, etc) to make the housing affordable for our staff. Rent payments and housing deposits will be automatically deducted from paychecks for your convenience. Rent varies by work location, but is most commonly $130-$160 per week.  More information will be provided during the interview process and prior to arrival.

Apartments are partially-furnished, including a table and chairs, kitchen appliances, microwave, new air mattress, pillow, sheets, Internet, television, and a telephone for local and internet calls.  Beds with mattresses and frames are available for a nominal upgraded fee.

Employees should expect to live with other staff from different states and countries adding to an enriching cultural experience. All bedrooms will be gender-specific unless requested by both parties (as in couples or friends traveling together).  Special requests such as “same gender apartments” will be accommodated if available. Friends traveling together can most likely be housed together but choices may be limited due to work assignment and housing locations. Any housing or roommate requests should be made far in advance to help our staff plan and honor requests.

Getting to Work

Walk: In many cases, we are able to accommodate housing within a mile of the job site. With the traffic issues of the area, walking is often the most efficient way to arrive on time!

Bicycle Commute: To better assist staff with transportation options to work, we offer optional bicycle purchases for 125$. This price includes front and rear lights, helmet, and a bike lock. Washington DC and surrounding areas are relatively flat and make biking a suitable transportation option. In the past, lifeguards have enjoyed having their own bike to help increase mobility for work commute, grocery shopping, days off, etc. The bicycle purchase can be deducted from paychecks if requested and at the end of the summer, staff can return bikes if in good repair for a 50$ refund.

Public Transportation: In some cases, public transportation services will be the most viable option to get to and from work. The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA or Metro) includes Metrorail and Metrobus. Using Metro, you can get just about anywhere in the region 24 hours a day at a reasonable cost.

UBER/LYFT: Ridesharing apps have proved to be an efficient for staff that have a smart phone. It’s not always the cheapest option, but with new carpooling programs by both companies, often times the fares are really reasonable and offer a convenience that can’t be matched by other methods.

Paychecks, Payrates, and Bonuses

Paychecks: Paychecks are processed every other Monday. On paydays, your check will usually be delivered by your supervisor to the pool. Alternatively, sometimes due to location checks are mailed out in time to arrive on payday to our housing locations.

Payrates: The Washington Metropolitan Area (often referred to as the DMV for the District, Maryland and Virginia) includes Washington, D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia. Pay rates differ in each state, county, and/or facility.

Referral Bonus: Lifeguard Exchange participants can refer friends or other candidates for up to $100 per referral.