Lifeguard at Summer Camp

Spend your summer on the water and in the sunshine!

Summer Camp Lifeguard Jobs

  • Overview

    Every day of summer camp you will find campers and counselors having a crazy amount of fun in the pool or on the lake. Our Swim staff have three main responsibilities at the pool and waterfront.  Teach young campers how to swim, coach kids in competitive swim meets and guard the amazing beach and pool areas.    

    Our Swim Staff are headed up by our waterfront directors, they will bring your lifeguarding, coaching and instruction skills to the next level through an extensive pre-camp training program. 

  • Why Lifeguard at Camp?

    First, being a lifeguard is possibly the most iconic role at summer camp! If you like being by the water and in the sunshine then this is the role for you. What could be a better way to spend 9 weeks of a summer?

    On top of that, our swim staff consists of 20+ staff from around the world, it’s always a fun, diverse and awesome team to be a part of. You will create incredible bonds and friendships with your team.

    Oh, and did we mention that we have a beautiful fresh water lake with inflatables, waterslides, trampolines, boating, waterskiing, sailing and stand-up paddle-boarding, AND a 8 lane 25 yard (with starting blocks) heated competition pool.  Joined on the other half with a play and adventure area which includes the epic, bouldering wall and cliff jump over our deep end.  Yup, not a bad job to get paid for!

  • Key Responsibilities

    • Instruct, supervise, and mentor campers with a focus on developing confidence, and respect for the aquatic environment.

    • Plan and lead daily waterfront activities while also participating in broader camp programs as needed.

    • Promote a safe, inclusive, and encouraging atmosphere both in and around the water, adhering to all safety protocols and emergency procedures.

    • Communicate clearly and professionally with campers, co-staff, and camp leadership to support a smooth and positive waterfront experience.

    • Model responsibility, attentiveness, and teamwork in all waterfront and camp interactions.

  • Key Details

    • Must be at least 18 years of age by the start of the camp season.

    • Prior experience working with children is beneficial.

    • Available to live and work on-site for the full season (mid-June to mid-August)

    • Strong interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills.

    • Willingness to engage fully in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

    • Competitive seasonal salary.

    • Free housing and meals for the duration of employment.

    • Leadership and team development experience.

    • A strong professional reference for future opportunities.

    • Pre-camp training and ongoing support.

5 things we look for in Lifeguards

  1. Strong Swimming Ability: A lifeguard must be an exceptional swimmer, capable of navigating various water conditions quickly and efficiently to rescue swimmers in distress.

  2. Vigilant Observation Skills: Constant attention to the water and its surroundings is crucial. A lifeguard must be able to spot potential hazards or signs of distress quickly, even in a crowded or noisy environment.

  3. First Aid and CPR Certification: Lifeguards should be well-trained in first aid and CPR, with the ability to respond calmly and effectively in emergencies, providing immediate care until further medical help arrives.

  4. Communication and Leadership: Effective communication with both campers and staff is key. Lifeguards must be able to give clear instructions, enforce rules, and manage potentially stressful situations with authority and calm.

  5. Teamwork and Collaboration: Working closely with other lifeguards, camp staff, and medical personnel is essential. A lifeguard must be able to collaborate and support their team to ensure the safety and well-being of all campers.

John Gray

"As the Waterfront Director, I believe our lifeguards are the backbone of a safe and enjoyable experience at camp. Their vigilance, skill, and dedication ensure that every camper can enjoy the water with confidence, knowing they are in expert hands.”

FAQs

  • Lifeguards will spend anywhere between 6-8 hours a day lifeguarding at the pool or the lake. There are quiet times of the day when there is small group swim instruction and busier times of the day when hundreds of campers and counselors are in the water. You will help provide coverage to the necessary areas at the times provided by the waterfront directors. When the pool is closed you will either have some rest time or will be back with your bunk/division to help out there.

  • Yes. Lifeguards will arrive a week earlier to camp than most other roles. As it is a highly skilled area you will spend this extra time with the waterfront team going through extensive waterfront training.

    You will be swim tested and assessed. You will sit an American Red Cross test and gain a certification at the end of it. You will learn how our safety systems work, rescue drills and basic first aid.

  • There are many benefits of being a lifeguard at Camp IHC. You will work with an incredible team, you will build strong connections with them and others. You will be paid to be outside all summer long! You will also go through two weeks of lifeguard training and gain further teaching, on-site lifeguard experience.

  • Due to the responsibilities that come with lifeguarding, we are looking for staff with lifeguard certifications coupled with a strong level of swim or waterfront experience.

  • Throughout the summer you will live in a bunk with campers and other camp counselors. When you’re not lifeguarding you’ll connect with them and be part of their group to provide extra coverage. During this time you’ll have an opportunity to take part in other activities with them and help your team out.

  • Yes. On a regular schedule you will have one period off each day.

    You will also have one full day and night off each week. This is your chance to rest, recover and try some new things on camp and explore new places off camp with other staff.

One Camp.
One Community.

About Us:

Camp IHC is a mission-driven overnight camp in North East Pennsylvania focused on child development. Our team is dedicated to providing a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment for both campers and staff.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion:

Camp IHC is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and encourage candidates from all backgrounds, identities, and communities to apply. We are committed to building a supportive and inclusive workplace for everyone.

Browse our Other Summer Camp Jobs

The Best Summer of Your Life.

Are you ready to lifeguard and swim coach at summer camp?