Camp Lifeguard

Since 1876, The Boys’ Club of New York (BCNY) has been partnering with boys and young men in after-school, weekend, and summer programs that support youth growth and development. BCNY’s two well-equipped clubhouses in East Harlem and Flushing and its wilderness camp in Harriman State Park offer activities and programs remarkable in their range. From swimming to robotics and enjoying ice skating in Central Park and a trip to the theatre on Saturdays, BCNY programs and events deepen interests and skills and are free of charge to members and their families. With the increase in youth directly impacted by the shelter and homelessness crisis in New York City, BCNY is dedicated to increasing equitable access to its free, high quality youth programs that foster brave spaces where boys and young men can connect, have fun and build lifelong friendships with peers and mentor. Part of that mission is our commitment to BCNY’s expansion sites in the Bronx and Brooklyn that engage members within their communities with the same youth-centered ethos the organization is known for. Our dedicated and highly skilled staff and our professional advisory council have made BCNY a leader in youth programming across the field and we invite you join our team as we partner with boys and young men as they journey through their childhoods and our clubhouses.

We are a COVID-19 proactive organization that follows applicable health and safety regulations to help protect our members and staff. Harriman Base Camp employees are not required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, unless it is specified under requirements. BCNY strongly encourages all employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 and obtain a booster shot. 

The Camp Lifeguard plays a crucial role ensuring the safety and well-being of campers and staff participating in waterfront activities. Reporting to the Aquatics Director, the Camp Lifeguard oversees water safety, supervises aquatic activities, and provides emergency response when needed. Additionally, the Lifeguard assists in delivering swim instruction, maintaining the waterfront area, and contributing to camp-wide programming. The ideal candidate is a strong swimmer, a proactive leader, and a team player who enjoys working outdoors in a fast-paced camp environment. The waterfront is composed of a swimming dock with a 3ft deep crib, a deep end roped to a floating dock, and a 30ft long beach with canoes and kayaks. 

• Waterfront Supervision & Safety
  • Provide surveillance during aquatic activities to prevent and respond to injuries.
  • Perform water rescues and emergency response procedures, including CPR and first aid.
  • Evaluate and monitor campers’ swimming abilities and enforce appropriate safety regulations.
  • Implement emergency action plans and respond effectively to changes in weather or water conditions.

• Aquatics Instruction & Program Support

  • Assist  with teaching  swim lessons, and other waterfront activities.
  • Ensure campers and staff follow water safety protocols .
  • Help plan and execute waterfront special events and activities.

• Waterfront Facility & Equipment Maintenance

  • Conduct daily safety checks of the waterfront area, ensuring  equipment is in  working order.
  • Keep the waterfront area clean and free of hazards  and debris.
  • Assist in maintaining inventory and stocking first aid and program supplies.

• Camp Participation and Additional duties 

  • Live in a cabin with a group of campers, alongside 2 other staff members.
  • Be a mentor, a listener, and a role model, helping campers adjust to camp life and build friendships.
  • Support campers through homesickness, excitement, challenges, and triumphs.
  • Lead by example in keeping cabins tidy, respecting camp rules, and fostering a positive camp culture.

• Must be at least 18 years old.
  • Current certifications in:
    1. First Aid & CPR less than 1 year old
    2. Lifeguarding (Including Deep Water) for Professional Rescuers and Waterfront Skills (for pool and beach)
  • Ability to pass a background check, physical exam, and meet all required immunizations (MMR required).

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• At least one year of experience as a lifeguard, swim instructor, or similar role
• Experience working with children in a camp, educational, or youth development setting
• Knowledge and experience in boating, waterfront safety, and water rescue techniques

• PTO: Sick time only  
• Housing available on site
• Daily meals during camp sessions

The Boys’ Club of New York is an equal opportunity employer 

and makes employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other status protected by law.  If you have a disability or other protected need requiring an accommodation, please contact Human Resources.