Summer Camp Aquatics Specialist

Position: Aquatics Specialist

Classification: Seasonal

Reports to: Program Director

Position Summary:

The Aquatics Specialist furthers the mission of Wanakee through the planning and delivery of activities at the camp’s waterfront that are safe, fun, and appropriate to the camper’s age and abilities. The Aquatics Specialist provides management of the physical operation of the waterfront’s facilities and equipment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Direct and supervise a safe and fun waterfront program.
  • Evaluate aquatics abilities of campers and staff.  
  • Deliver swim and watercraft program activities. 
• Train and supervise waterfront staff  Assist in the planning and implementation of staff training.  
  • Train waterfront and counseling staff in their waterfront responsibilities.  
  • Supervise waterfront staff to provide a safe and high-quality program.  
  • Supervise the waterfront staff evaluation process.  
  • Implement the scheduling of waterfront staff.  
  • Directly supervise other aquatic staff. 
• Manage the physical facilities and equipment in the waterfront program area.
  • Set up a waterfront area prior to and during staff training.  
  • Teach and monitor proper use of equipment.  
  • Conduct initial and end-of-season inventory, and store equipment for safety. 
  • Check equipment, and make (or file for) repairs.  
  • Conduct a daily check of equipment for safety, cleanliness, and good repair.  
  • Submit orders for equipment and supplies when needed, ensure timely delivery.  
  • Survey the waterfront area daily, and keep the area free of hazards and debris. 
• Support counseling staff by role modeling high level engagement with campers.
  • Regularly attend site campfires and sit with sites during meals.  
  • Offer real time feedback to counselors to support growth and development.  
  • Support and lead all-camp activities, including but not limited to worship, games, and special events.
• Support in Program Administration.
  • Assist Directors with tasks such as: program planning/ scheduling, staff/volunteer training and support, camper registration (including preparation of site lists).

Other Job Duties:

• Participate enthusiastically in all camp activities, planning and leading as needed.
• Participate as a member of the camp staff team to deliver and supervise evening programs, special events, overnight, and other all-camp activities and camp functions.
• Other duties as assigned by the Directors, including assisting in other areas of camp.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Must be able to obtain First Aid/CPR certification (course offered to staff during training).
• Must be at least 18 years old. Age 21 preferred.
• Ability to pass a criminal background check.
• Background in education, outdoor education, youth development, or youth ministry desired.
• Experience in a summer camp setting. Training and experience in a variety of program activities offered at the camp, particularly water based activities.  
• Experience in supervising others, especially peers, is desirable. 
• Current certification in lifeguarding (or ability to earn certification).
• Current NH Commercial Boating License or ability to earn. 
• LGI and/or WSI preferred. 

Physical Aspects of the Position:

• Ability to effectively communicate orally and in writing.
• Ability to observe camper/staff behavior, assess its appropriateness, enforce appropriate safety regulations and emergency procedures, and apply appropriate behavior-management techniques.
• Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to hazards related to activities.
• Physical ability to respond appropriately to situations requiring first aid. Must be able to assist campers in an emergency (fire, evacuation, illness, or injury) and possess strength and endurance required to maintain constant supervision of campers.
• Some physical requirements of this position could be endurance including climbing, standing, swimming, some bending, stooping, and stretching. Requires eye-hand coordination and manual dexterity. Requires normal range of hearing and eyesight to record, prepare, and communicate appropriate camper activities/programs and the ability to lift up to 50 lbs. Willingness to live in a camp setting and work irregular hours delivering programs in the facility available. Operate with daily exposure to the sun and heat and varying environmental conditions.

Compensation and Benefits:

Starting Salary: $3,600 (Note: For international staff, this amount may be adjusted for applicable visa or agency fees.)

Room and board provided for the duration of the seasonal contract. 

Bonuses available for obtaining and using lifeguard and/or ropes certification during the summer.

About Wanakee: 

Wanakee is a traditional Christian summer camp and year-round retreat center, owned and operated by the New England Conference of the United Methodist Church. Our camp and retreat programming focuses on building loving relationships and communities of radical acceptance. Find us at www.wanakee.org or on most social media outlets @wanakeenh.