The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department is offering $3,000 in incentive pay for certified lifeguards.

Pool managers, assistant managers and hundreds of lifeguards are needed ahead of the 2023 pool season to safely open as many of the city's 29 public pools as possible, according to a city release.

Eligible certified managers, assistant managers and lifeguards will receive $500 on the first paycheck, and the remaining $2,500 as a one-time payment at the end of the 2023 pool season, the release stated.

To receive the pay, a person must become certified as a lifeguard, work the entire summer through Labor Day weekend and “finish in good standing,” city officials said.

For the first time, the department is offering a new shallow-water lifeguard position. Shallow-water lifeguards will guard 4 feet of water and under.

“For the second season in a row, the City of Phoenix is making a direct investment into the safety of our residents, especially when it comes to children and water safety," Mayor Kate Gallego said.

“Not only do lifeguards watch over our residents while swimming, but they also provide affordable swim lessons throughout the summer."