Florida officials who run the state park on Honeymoon Island are having a hard time finding qualified lifeguards to monitor the beach there this summer.

  • Positions posted for 10 days, only 4 applicants
  • All 4 applicants not qualified
  • Interested in applying? Send resumes to Michael.Lang@dep.state.fl.us

A spokesperson for the State Department of Environmental Protection, which oversees funding for the jobs, said despite having the positions posted for 10 days this month, there were only four responses and none of the applicants was qualified.

People who visit the beach on Honeymoon Island regularly said the problem was concerning.

“If something happens, what do you do?” said Chris Basak.

Basak's wife, Jamie, agreed.

“Especially with the baby now," Jamie said. "I don't think I would have been as nervous when it was just us, but having her it's scary to come to the beach and know there's no lifeguards to have her back. God forbid if something happens.”

The state EPD is now looking to the Red Cross, YMCA and local governments in hopes of finding qualified applicants to fill the three positions. The original job posting for the positions, which have since expired, included the following:

Ability to swim in an open water environment, follow verbal and written instructions; work independently with little supervision; communicate effectively verbally and in writing; prepare reports; establish and maintain effective working relationships with others; deal with visitor inquiries in a tactful, efficient and courteous manner; understand and apply rules, directives, policies, laws and regulations; work rotating shifts including holidays and weekends; maintain a valid Class E driver s license. Ability to work in hot humid environment. Skill in utilizing motor vehicles. Knowledge of lifesaving techniques, first aid and CPR for both infants and adults.

Must possess the following certification:

a) Possess a current CPR certificate, which includes adult, child and infant training.

b) Possess a multi-media first aid card (Red Cross), to include blood-borne pathogen training.

c) Possess a current Red Cross, YMCA or equivalent life-saving certificate for Open Water

Lifeguards have the full responsibility of enrolling in a renewal course and must submit copies of the updated certificate.

Lifeguards who allow their certifications to expire will be suspended without pay until the course is completed and a current certification is obtained. Certification should be

consistent with work assignments.

If you believe you may be a qualified applicant, send your resume to Michael.Lang@dep.state.fl.us.