Teens are now taking summer jobs, and newly released numbers show this age group now has the lowest unemployment rate since December 1957.

"I'm currently a lifeguard, I sometimes do privates group lessons at times,” said Selene Lopez, a lifeguard at Rye YMCA.

The 19 year-old college student studying law is using her summer break to earn cash by working at the place she grew up swimming.

"I worked a little in high school here and went off to college. and its nice to come back to a job where you kind of know everyone," Lopez said.

Selene is part of Generation Z, which has gotten reputation for being lazy and entitled, but it’s a reputation that data doesn't backup.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate for teens ages 16-19 in May is 10.4% the lowest in decades.

Teens are helping fill in staff shortages nationwide.

"What we have been encountering is a huge shortage of aquatic staff,” said Vickie Tsakmakis, senior director of aquatics & safety, at Rye YMCA. "We have a lot of opportunities for youth and teens to be employed by us."

Tsakmakis said teen staff is vital to providing programs at the Y in fact this age group makes up nearly 18% of staff.

Economists believe high paying jobs are drawing teens into the workforce.

For example. a job as a lifeguard at the Y starts at roughly $16 an hour.

"Which I think is super competitive,” said Tsakmakis.

Rye YMCA is still searching for more lifeguards and swim instructors.

You must be at least 15 years old, a strong swimmer and undergo Red Cross lifeguard training.

Click here for more information.