Willamalane Offers Hiring Incentives for New Staff

Willamalane Park and Recreation District continues to seek new applicants for high-demand positions including youth program leaders and lifeguards. Now, the district is offering hiring incentives for new staff and additional retention incentives for key positions throughout the district.

Childcare hiring incentives

Willamalane implemented a $500 incentive for new childcare employees in early August. The district is already seeing results: in recent weeks, the district hired enough preschool teachers to open part-time preschools this fall. These spots will serve an additional 56 students. Registration for part-time preschools will begin on Wednesday, Aug. 17.

Willamalane is still seeking additional childcare staff. As a result of childcare staff shortages, four Springfield elementary schools will have after-school Kids Club programs available at the beginning of the school year. The remaining seven elementary schools have interest lists and will open as soon as Willamalane staffing resources allow.

Lifeguard hiring incentives

New Willamalane lifeguards are eligible for a $200 hiring incentive, which has been in effect since July 1, 2022. In addition, this year Willamalane implemented other recruitment efforts including hiring events and district-paid certifications. These efforts have resulted in an influx of staff over the summer and increased pool hours, but the district needs to continue hiring in order to offer programs throughout the school year.

Community members interested in becoming lifeguards can join Willamalane’s monthly aquatic hiring events and receive a tentative job offer within two hours. From there, the new employees undergo lifeguard and safety training on paid time, with all certifications paid for by the district. The next hiring event is on Monday, August 15 from 4-6 p.m. at Willamalane Park Swim Center. Attendees should bring a swimsuit to the event. More information is available at willamalane.org/lifeguard.

Retention incentives

Current youth programming and lifeguard staff at Willamalane are also eligible to earn a $100 bonus for every 200 hours worked while employed. Employees can receive up to $500 in retention incentives annually for hours worked.

Hiring information

The community can learn more about the hiring events and view all of Willamalane’s open positions at willamalane.org/jobs.

Requirements for childcare positions: 

·         Candidates must be at least 16 years old and enjoy working with kids.

·         Candidates must pass a background check and pre-employment screening.

Requirements for lifeguard positions: 

·         Candidates must be at least 15 years old and enjoy working with kids.

·         Candidates must pass a background check and pre-employment screening.

·         Candidates must undergo lifeguard and safety training after hiring.

Other Willamalane perks include flexible schedules, discounts for childcare and recreation programs, free fitness and wellness options, and benefits packages. Applicants who pass a Spanish language competency test may be eligible for an extra $1 per hour.