Seasonal Camp Lifeguard

Who We Are:

Founded in 1891 by a group of visionary volunteers, The Trustees of Reservations (The Trustees) is the nation’s premier conservation and preservation organization. The Trustees preserves, for public use and enjoyment, properties of exceptional scenic, historic, and ecological value in Massachusetts. Our properties are open to all, and we thrive by involving as many people as possible in all that we do.

We aim to protect special places for future generations to enjoy in perpetuity, and have helped protect more than 50,000 acres, including 27,000+ acres on more than 120 reservations that are open to the public. As a non‑profit conservation organization, we are funded and supported entirely by our visitors, supporters, volunteers, and our 100,000 Member households. We encourage you to learn more about The Trustees on our website,(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

• Hourly Rate: $19.00‑$21.00/hour (rates are determined based on relevant experience)
• Hours per week: 15‑20 hrs/week during camp season; optional additional shifts at Crane Beach
• Job Classification:
  Limited‑term, non‑exempt
• Job Type: Onsite
• Duration:
  June–August (with optional May–September shifts at Crane Beach)
• Location:
  
  Crane Beach, Ipswich, MA

Summer Quest is a vibrant, nature‑based day camp where campers ages 5‑14 explore the coastal habitats of The Crane Estate through outdoor adventures, hands‑on learning, and imaginative play. Campers spend time at the beach every camp day (as weather allows) and they love beach time!

As a Camp Lifeguard, you play a central role in creating a safe, welcoming experience for all campers. You ensure that every child—swimmer and non‑swimmer alike—can enjoy the beach safely through supervision, strong communication, and consistent adherence to safety protocols. You are part of a collaborative summer team committed to excellence, positive energy, and environmental awareness.

• Provide supervision and maintain a safe swimming environment for campers and staff in the camp’s designated waterfront area.
• Enforce waterfront rules, camp procedures, and safety guidelines for all campers and camp staff.
• Provide care and respond quickly to emergencies on the beach and in the water.
• Maintain safety equipment and ensure waterfront materials are organized and ready for use.
• Communicate effectively with Camp Director, Camp Educators, other beach safety staff, and lifeguard peers to support smooth waterfront operations.
• Support camp transitions to and from the beach when not supervising the water; including helping younger campers with gear and ensuring sunscreen and hydration practices are followed.
• Serve as a positive, calm, and confidence‑building presence for campers of all swimming abilities.
• Participate in daily workouts and regular training.
• Perform other duties as assigned with or without reasonable accommodation.

This is a limited term, non‑exempt position (15‑40 hrs/wk). This role reports directly to the Summer Quest Camp Director, with functional supervision and training support from the Crane Beach Public Safety Manager.

• Red Cross or Waterfront Certification recommended. Other programs will be considered on a case‑by‑case basis.
• Current certifications in O2, CPR for the Professional Rescuer, AED, and first responder First Aid.
• Ability to maintain concentration while monitoring changing conditions and active campers.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to balance authority with warmth when engaging with young people.
• Comfortable working with children ages 5‑14 and partnering with camp educators in a dynamic, outdoor environment.
• Ability to run one mile in a sandy environment.
• Ability to swim one‑quarter mile in ocean conditions (this might include rough water and/or seasonably cold water).

• Must be available to work Monday‑Friday during camp beach hours (typically early afternoon). Availability to work evenings, weekends and holidays for Crane Beach lifeguarding shifts.
• Must be able to work in variable outdoor weather and water conditions throughout the summer.
• Must be able to assist with moving equipment and launching small boats as needed.
• Driving…