Summer Camp Lifeguard

Time commitment: A seven-week commitment from June 14–August 1, 2026 on a college campus in Pennsylvania! 

Summer salary for these positions starts at $3, 150 and varies by total number of camp sessions, experience, and years worked at camp.

Lifeguards are essential members of the camp team and participate in professional development training during team orientation and staff meetings. The primary responsibility of a Lifeguard is to ensure the safety and well-being of campers during all aquatic activities. Lifeguards actively supervise swimming areas, enforce pool and waterfront rules, and respond quickly and appropriately to emergencies.

Lifeguards are responsible for maintaining a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where campers feel confident and secure in and around the water. In addition to their aquatic duties, Lifeguards live with campers and play an active role in supporting the overall camper experience. They help build positive relationships, encourage participation in camp activities, and contribute to a community that fosters confidence, independence, and fun. Lifeguards work closely with counselors and other staff to support campers’ daily experiences and report directly to the Camp Director and the Camp Director’s designees.

Key duties & responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Ensure the physical safety and well-being of campers during all aquatic activities

Actively supervise pool and waterfront areas at all times

Enforce aquatic safety rules and camp policies consistently and fairly

Respond immediately and appropriately to emergencies, including rescues and first aid

Maintain required lifeguard certifications and participate in all trainings and drills

Conduct safety checks of aquatic areas and equipment before and after use

Create a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment where campers feel confident in the water

Support campers’ skill-building in swimming and water safety

Live with campers and contribute positively to the residential camp community

Participating in team orientation professional development trainings

Ensuring that campers are enjoying their experience at camp by creating a safe, fun environment in which they can make friends, play, and grow

Participating in all camp activities and ensuring that standards are met and campers are safe and happy

Assisting with camper/family communication, including completing daily reports on each camper communication

Assuming any role on the team in case of emergency departure, unforeseen circumstances, or illness

Performing other related duties as required and assigned by the Camp Director and/or Senior Leadership Team

Desired skills & experience:

A high school diploma; some college credit preferred

Lifeguard certification is required; applicants who are not yet certified are encouraged to apply, as the camp can support staff through the certification process.

Strong attention to detail and ability to remain alert and focused for extended periods

Ability to respond calmly and effectively in emergency situations

Clear communication skills and confidence enforcing safety rules

Experience and/or interest in working with youth ages 9–14

Deep commitment to Change Summer’s mission and being an excellent role model to inspire and support our campers

A desire and ability to work well in teams as well as autonomously

An “all hands” mentality (i.e., willingness to help ensure we provide the best experience for campers)

A willingness to receive and implement feedback in order to grow and develop leadership capabilities and confidence

The ability to meet deadlines

Very strong organizational skills

A tremendous work ethic

Confidence and presence in both group and one-on-one settings

Ability to communicate with various stakeholders and solve complex problems

Demonstrated leadership, flexibility, trustworthiness, creativity, energy, inspiration and positivity