Looking for a summer job that builds real-world skills, strengthens your resume, and gets you outdoors? The City of Decatur is hiring Lake Patrol Persons for the 2026 season—an opportunity to work on the water while gaining experience in public safety, customer service, and teamwork.

As part of the Lake Patrol team at Lake Decatur, you’ll:

• Monitor lake activity and promote safe boating
• Assist during on-water emergencies
• Support daily operations with light maintenance on docks and facilities
• Interact with boaters and represent the City in a positive, professional way

• Competitive pay, with higher rates for returning employees
• $250 hiring bonus after your first month.
• Late-season bonus for weekend shifts worked August 15 through Labor Day
• Approximately 72 hours every two weeks
• Rotating schedule of 5 days on, followed by 3 days off with set hours:
  • 1st shift: 6:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
  • 2nd shift: 1:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. (pays an additional $0.25/hour shift differential)
• Required holiday weekends: Memorial Day, Boat Races (June 6–7), and July 4

This job is fully outdoors in all weather conditions and includes on-water activity, including swimming.

Applicants not already Red Cross certified must attend and pass a lifeguard training class at the Bloomington-Normal YMCA on April 10-12, 2025.

Lake Patrol & Safety Enforcement:

• Operate patrol and work boats; use two-way radios to report violations and resolve issues.
• Enforce no-wake zones, horsepower limits, boating permits, and other lake regulations.
• Inspect boats and equipment, sell permits, collect fees, and patrol lake events.

• Provide courtesy patrols and assist visitors on and around Lake Decatur.
• Respond to emergencies, perform rescues, administer first aid, and apply CPR.
• Educate the public on water safety and address complaints or questions.

• Maintain safety equipment such as "no wake" buoys and signs around the lake.
• Perform landscaping tasks, including mowing, planting, and debris removal.
• Clean boats, equipment, docks, and lake facilities; complete minor repairs.

• Prepare work reports, complete data entry, and handle light filing.
• Support general operational activities to keep lake operations running smoothly.

Safety & Emergency Response

• Strong swimming skills; ability to perform water rescues.
• Knowledge of first aid, CPR, and lifesaving techniques.
• Ability to stay calm and make sound decisions in emergencies.

• Ability to lift, reach, stoop, and handle heavy objects.

• Familiarity with city codes, department policies, and relevant regulations.
• Basic knowledge of hand tools, maintenance materials, and office equipment.
• Ability to perform data entry, filing, and use Microsoft Office.

• Able to communicate clearly and professionally with the public, even in challenging situations.
• Able to understand and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Skilled in preparing routine reports and documentation.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience in maintenance or customer service roles preferred.
• Lifeguard and motorboat operation experience preferred.

• American Red Cross Lifeguard Training, CPR/AED, First Aid, and Oxygen Administration required before employment begins. Training is provided at no cost if you are not already certified.

• Valid driver’s license.
• Must be at least 18 years old by the start date.

To Apply
Spend your summer on the water and build valuable skills as part of Decatur’s Lake Patrol team. Submit a complete application with all required information. Uploaded resumes can assist but do not replace the application.

Final candidates will complete a pre-employment drug screen, physical, and background check. The City of Decatur is a drug-free workplace, including marijuana.