Head Lifeguard

THE SALVATION ARMY

North and Central Illinois Division

Wonderland Camp and

Conference Center

POSITION DESCRIPTION

POSITION TITLE : Head Lifeguard/Senior Counselor

LOCATION/DEPT : Wonderland Camp and Conference Center

REPORTS TO : Assistant Director - Programs

FLSA CATEGORY : Exempt

STATUS TYPE : TFT

Seasonal Position: May 24, 2026 - July 16, 2026 (opportunity for extended employment through August 17th)

OUTCOMES

The Head Lifeguard is to provide leadership and professional knowledge in the waterfront department at Camp. The position is responsible for scheduling and managing the waterfront employees, as well as supervising the safety of all waterfront users. Will provide an aquatic experience for the campers with a Christian message.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Administration

1. Conduct aquatics orientation during general staff training. Work with Camp Leadership in planning this orientation.
2. Supervise all aquatic activities and set example as head lifeguard.
3. Provide instruction in swimming, diving, boating and water safety.
4. Plan water carnivals and inclement weather classes (work with Assistant Director-Programs).
5. Participate in total camp program. Encourage aquatic staff involvement with assigned units.
6. Assume other duties as requested by Assistant Director-Programs if weather circumstances prevent ongoing aquatic activities.
7. Test pool daily and monitor both physical and mechanical equipment. Maintain daily general cleanliness/repair of pool, pool building and equipment. Contact Maintenance Department for mechanical problems.
8. Maintain daily general cleanliness/repair of boathouse, boat room, docks, beach, pontoon boats, canoes, rowboats, speed boats, fun bugs funyaks, oars, paddles, and related lakefront equipment/area.
9. Implement work schedules for all Aquatic personnel.
10. Implement daily/weekly exercise and in-service training for lifeguards.
11. Assist with maintaining assigned lodging (lights out, doors locked, curfew compliance, cleaning schedule, camp guidelines and prayer time.
12. Submit evaluation assessments for aquatic staff (mid and end of summer).

Other Duties

1. Participate in leadership training week.
2. Guide aquatic staff in daily devotions.
3. Assist with transportation of campers and staff.
4. Maintain a sense of professionalism in Aquatic areas: self control, service positive attitude, work ethic and sense of ministry.
5. Complete ARC CPR for the Professional Rescuer and Standard First Aid*.
6. Maintain a servant attitude, function as part of the ministry leadership team.
7. Participate in and encourage attendance at staff devotions, outings, and worship services.
8. All other duties as assigned.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS

This position reports to the Activities Director.

In contacts related to this position's duties this individual act as a representative of the Army and its mission.

PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENTS

This individual will be evaluated on how effectively the outcomes of this position are achieved, as well as the timeliness, accuracy, and completeness of accomplishing assigned goals.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• Minimum 1 year of college or equivalent.
• Minimum 2 year of supervisory experience in a similar aquatic area preferred.
• Must have at least 2 years of experience as a lifeguard or similar position.
• Minimum age of 21 preferred.

COMPENTENCIES

• Must be an individual of the Christian faith who has a strong personal relationship with the Lord, attends church on a regular basis, and a desire to lead others spiritually.
• In agreement with the philosophy, goals and objectives of The Salvation Army Wonderland Camp and Conference Center.
• A commitment to support and promote the mission of The Salvation Army and a passion for camp ministry.
• Able to relate God's handiwork through aquatic activities and in relationship with the Word of God in programming initiatives.
• Able to live on camp grounds throughout duration of employment.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• An attention to detail
• A positive attitude and the ability to be flexible in light of changing job situations/priorities.
• Demonstrated ability to use initiative and be a self-starter.
• Knowledge of pool and spa operation and chemical testing.
• Current ARC CPR for Professional Rescuer and Standard First Aid*.
• Current Water Safety Instruction Certificate preferred and Lifeguard training.
• Some supervisory experience.

POSITION LIMITATIONS

• This individual will only commit Army resources that have been allocated or approved.
• This individual will keep the Activities Director informed on all critical issues relating to his/her area of responsibility.
• This individual will adhere to all Army policies and procedures in carrying out the responsibilities of this position.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

• This position is required to do light to heavy physical work.
• In order to successfully perform the essential functions of this position, the employee is regularly required to use pool or water equipment.
• The work environment for this position includes an office and outdoor/pool environment with a low to high noise level.

THE SALVATION ARMY MISSION STATEMENT

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination,