Teach Waterski at Summer Camp

Keep our lake safe and fun this summer.

Start Application

Summer Camp Waterski Jobs

Overview

Waterski is one of the coolest areas on camp. Every camper and counselor can’t wait until it’s their turn to go to the waterski dock for an activity period.
As part of the waterski team you will take campers waterskiing, tubing, wake-boarding and kneeboarding. At Camp IHC the Waterski instructors will teach around 7 periods a day. You’ll help teach campers from 6-16 years old with a variety of abilities.
Why Join the Waterski Team?

We are looking for people who are so passionate about this role that they can’t picture themselves ever doing anything else.
This role is for the ‘live life to the full’ type of people, the people who want to be paid to do the job they love.
The waterski team is small (7-9 people) but there are few teams on camp who get on as well as our waterski team!
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

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

Teaching periods are around 40-50 minutes long and you’ll normally teach around 7 periods a day. Camp counselors will accompany the campers to the Waterski Dock and then it’s your responsibility to engage with the campers and get them ready for the lesson. You and your team will have lesson plans (that you help build!) that will be tailored for the different levels and abilities. Those 40-50 minutes are yours to make as amazing as possible.
Yes. Waterski instructors need to be trained and qualified to drive our boats and be certified as lifeguards. As it is a highly skilled area you will arrive a week earlier than most roles and spend this time with the rest of the waterfront team going through extensive waterfront training. You will be swim tested and assessed. You’ll be trained on driving our boats and our lake protocols. 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 go through first aid training.
Due to the responsibilities that come with waterskiing, we are looking for staff with boat and ski experience, as well as confidence in the water. So you’ll need to know how to ski/wakeboard, drive and swim in order to be considered for such a position. 21+ Years Old with a Car Drivers License is preferred.
If you do not currently have any certifications you can still apply and we will assess your experience level.
There are many benefits of being on the waterfront team 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 doing what you love all summer long!
You will go through two weeks of waterfront training and gain further teaching, on-site waterski experience.
Throughout the summer you will live in a bunk with campers and other camp counselors. When you’re not teaching 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.