Lifeguard/Sr. Counselor - 4-H Camp Owahta - McGraw, NY

Position Overview The Sr. Counselor/Lifeguard role at 4‑H Camp Owahta combines waterfront safety responsibilities with overnight youth supervision. The position emphasizes program development, safety compliance, positive youth development, and teamwork across camp staff. Responsibilities Waterfront Programming and Support (95%) Assist in leading and planning waterfront activities for all campers, staff, and volunteers in a safe environment. Document camper swim levels upon arrival. Supervise all waterfront activities, including swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and non‑instructional activities. Use a “Buddy Board” system to ensure accountability at the waterfront. Model and enforce all NYS Department of Health and ACA safety regulations for overnight camp. Maintain daily NYS DEW waterfront reports. Report incidents, injuries, or near‑misses and assist with required paperwork. Inform counselor staff of additional supervision needs at the waterfront. Monitor swimming progress and maintain record of classes. Assist in staff orientation, instruction, and training involving waterfront procedures. Participate in weekly lifeguard drills and practice scenarios. Utilize all lifeguarding equipment appropriately. Complete maintenance logs, sign‑in/sign‑out sheets, and report repairs. Assist in inventory and submit equipment/supply requests. Safety & Camp Supervision (35%) Cooperate with directors, volunteers, and counselors in implementing all camp activities. Engage enthusiastically in camp activities, planning, and facilitation. Serve as a positive role model through attitude, body language, and behavior. Abide by all 4‑H Camp Owahta rules, policies, and procedures. Establish positive rapport with campers, families, staff, volunteers, and visitors. Lead orientation for campers on waterfront procedures and safety guidelines upon arrival. Assist in final camp evaluation and suggest improvements for next season. Stay in and supervise a cabin of campers if needed. Professional Improvement and Other Duties (5%) Attend staff training week, meetings, and required events. Co‑develop a professional development plan with the Outdoor Recreation Director. Submit all required reports in a timely manner. Perform other duties as assigned by the Outdoor Recreation Director and Day Camp Director. Health and Safety (all duties) Support the association in maintaining a safe working environment. Follow all applicable federal, state, and local regulations and association health and safety policies. Proactively prevent accidents/injuries and communicate hazards to supervisors. Qualifications Required Qualifications Must be 18 years of age or older. Attend and participate in all staff training; June29‑July3,2026. Current Waterfront Lifeguard Certification approved by NYS Department of Health. Current CPR and First Aid certification approved by NYS Department of Health (re‑certification required if necessary). Ability to build positive, approachable relationships with youth, parents, and staff. Desire, ability, and willingness to work and live in a camp community and reside at Camp Owahta, McGraw, NY (including overnight stays) for the entire season (July5‑August14,2026). Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends. Awareness of and understanding of positive youth development principles. Preferred Qualifications Experience as a staff member and/or CIT at an overnight summer camp. Interest in working with youth primarily outdoors. Receptiveness to guidance, supervision and feedback. Ability to effectively teach campers ages5‑16. Ability to adapt and remain flexible in dynamic environments. Compensation and Employment Full‑time exempt position, 100% FTE. Summer salary range: $2,350.00 to $4,400.00, commensurate with experience. Position available for the summer 2026 season (July5‑August14,2026). Employment visa sponsorship not available. #J-18808-Ljbffr Cornell University