Lifeguard Summer Camp Counsellor Jobs
With Camp New York

Craft a summer you’ll never forget.

Are you a trained and qualified lifeguard? If not, have you thought about getting your lifeguarding certification? There’s no better setting to do this than at a summer camp in the USA! If you’re a calm and confident swimmer with a sharp focus, a lifeguard job could be perfect for you. Lifeguards are vital at summer camp, where children take part in a variety of water-based activities. What could be more rewarding than helping to make sure camp is a fun and safe environment for all campers? Plus, you’ll get to experience all the very best of American culture!

What Does a Lifeguard Job at an American Summer Camp Involve?

The roles and responsibilities of a lifeguard job at an American summer camp

Lifeguards have a very important job at summer camp. American camps have many water-based activities both in swimming pools and open water sources such as lakes that all require a team of skilled lifeguards to keep everyone safe. You would be responsible for making sure campers can safely enjoy their time in the water, giving them a summer full of fun. Qualified lifeguards are desirable, but some camps may offer certifications at camp if you are confident you will pass.

What Skills Do You Need for a Lifeguard Summer Camp Job?

Qualified lifeguards are in high demand from summer camps in the USA. Experience lifeguarding in different water sources including pools and lakes is desirable. Applicants should be strong swimmers, able to dive to the bottom of the pool and swim 500 metres continuously. Experience with life-saving equipment like buoyancy aids and floats are important skills. Applicants that are not qualified already may want to consider gaining a lifeguarding qualification in their home country before heading to camp. If not, some camps may offer lifeguard positions to strong swimmers who are confident they will pass the requirements of the lifeguard certification at camp. Lifeguards need a sharp focus, the ability to stay calm during stressful situations, clear communication and a good attention span. Experience with First Aid and CPR are also desirable.

Be the reason summer stays safe. Make a difference as a lifeguard!

Leave a lasting impression this summer and be part of the reason that children are able to have a fun and safe summer, all whilst enjoying the very best that the USA has to offer.

Whether you're already a qualified lifeguard or you're ready to learn, summer camp could be for you this summer!

Learn essential life-saving water safety skills, build your confidence and improve your teamwork skills. Lifeguarding is an amazing skill to add to your CV. Spend your summer by the water, make best friends and memories to last a lifetime.

Perks of working at Camp New York

Pay in instalments — spread the cost over three payments

Meals & accommodation included — relax, everything’s covered

Earn while you’re at camp — up to $2,500 (before tax) depending on your role

Frequently Asked QUestions

Do summer camps in America have lifeguard jobs? +

Absolutely. The majority of summer camps have water-based activities, including swimming in lakes and pools, and therefore require lifeguards by law. Lifeguarding jobs are in high demand at American summer camps.

Can I be a lifeguard at an American summer camp if I have a lifeguard qualification from home? +

Certainly. Camps may require you to complete the American Red Cross Lifeguard Training Course when you get to camp, they will pay to put you through this. Those hiring for lifeguard positions are more likely to hire someone who has proven that they are capable of passing lifeguarding qualifications by gaining one in their home country, so this is a great skill to have.

Do I have to be a trained lifeguard for a lifeguard job at American summer camps? +

This depends on the camp. Some camps may only hire applicants who have existing lifeguarding qualifications either from previous camps or from their home country. However, some may hire applicants without qualifications who have enough strong swimming experience to suggest that they will be able to meet the requirements of the American Red Cross Lifeguard Training.

What is the American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification? +

The American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification is the most widely recognised safety credential for the prevention of water emergencies in the USA. Applicants may need to pass this certification during camp orientation before campers arrive. This test includes the following requirements:

  • Able to swim 300 yards consecutively (100 yards front crawl, 100 yards breaststroke, 100 yards choice of front crawl or breaststroke)
  • Perform the diving test within 1 minute and 40 seconds (swim 20 yards, surface dive to 7-10 feet, retrieve 10lbs, swim back to starting point)
  • Exit the water without using a ladder or steps.
  • Pass all rescue skill scenarios.
  • Pass all CPR skill scenarios.
  • Pass the written exam with a score of 80% or better.