Lifeguard - Sleepaway Camp

Career Opportunities with THE BOYS' CLUB OF NEW YORK INC

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Location: BCNY Harriman Basecamp, Harriman State Park, Southfields, NY

Employment Dates: June 22 – August 15, 2026

Employment Type: Seasonal, Full-Time, Exempt

Housing: Residential position with shared staff lodging provided

Reports To: Waterfront Director

The Boys’ Club of New York (BCNY) operates a premier sleep‑away camp experience designed for 10 to 17‑year‑old boys and young men to grow through adventure, community, and skill building. Since 1876, BCNY has created environments where young people develop confidence, resilience, teamwork, and leadership, grounded in our core values of Care, Courage, Curiosity, and Community.

At Harriman Basecamp, members engage in structured programs that promote healthy minds and bodies, expand their talents, and encourage positive peer relationships. Guided by evidence‑based youth development practices and our commitment to the 4 Cs, BCNY’s Basecamp programs aim to set a high standard for outdoor education and character development. To strengthen this mission, we continue to build a dedicated team of camp professionals who can deepen and broaden our impact each season.

The Lifeguard is a vital, entry‑level leadership role at the heart of the Harriman Basecamp waterfront experience. As a frontline safety professional, Lifeguards play a critical role in creating a fun, confident, and well‑supervised environment where campers can safely explore swimming and a wide range of waterfront activities. In addition to ensuring safety and enforcing waterfront rules, Lifeguards help campers build confidence, develop skills, and enjoy meaningful experiences in and around the water.

Lifeguards work under the direction of the Waterfront Director, with support from the Associate Camp Director, and collaborate closely with Cabin Counselors, Division Leaders, and activity staff to maintain safe staff‑to‑camper ratios and consistent supervision during waterfront and camp‑wide programming.

Candidates without a current lifeguard certification are encouraged to apply and must successfully complete both the Boys’ Club of New York Lifeguard Training and Waterfront Skills Lifeguard Training prior to the start of General Staff Training.

Mandatory attendance at full pre‑camp staff training (June 22 – July
3) is required to ensure readiness in behavior management, camper supervision, safety protocols, and camp culture alignment.

Waterfront Safety & Supervision

Supervise all swimming and waterfront activity areas to ensure camper safety and consistent enforcement of waterfront rules, safety standards, and emergency procedures.

Maintain appropriate staff‑to‑camper ratios during waterfront programs and support leadership with coverage adjustments as needed.

Respond calmly and effectively to emergencies, including rescues, first aid, and activation of emergency action plans.

Support campers in building confidence, comfort, and foundational aquatic skills.

Provide clear safety instructions and expectations before and during waterfront activities.

Encourage positive behavior, cooperation, and respect among campers at the waterfront.

Assist with swim testing and skill‑based supervision as assigned.

Waterfront & Camp‑Wide Program Support

Assist with non‑swimming waterfront activities, including canoeing, fishing, and other programs involving proximity to water.

Support camp‑wide activities as assigned, in collaboration with the Camp Program Director and Activity Division Leaders.

Work rotating schedules that may include coverage across multiple waterfront activity areas.

Participate in General Staff Training supporting the Waterfront Director with staff Waterfront Orientation, including buddy board procedures, supervision expectations, and safety protocols.

Maintain accurate documentation related to swim tests, incidents, and safety concerns.

Communicate safety observations and concerns to Division Leaders and waterfront leadership in a timely manner.

Serve as a waterfront safety resource…