Generalist Counselor/Lifeguard

Are you adaptable, resourceful, and ready for a summer full of variety and impact? As a Generalist Counselor/Lifeguard, you’ll be a key part of the camp’s success, stepping into different roles to support cabins, campers, and activity areas as needed. From building connections with campers to providing lifeguard expertise on the waterfront, every day will bring new opportunities to make a difference. If you’re ready to embrace flexibility, foster community, and create unforgettable memories, join us this summer at Chewonki.

• Location: Wiscasset, Maine

  • On Campus, Residential (Seasonal) 

• Schedule/ 2026 Dates:  June 14, 2026 - August 16, 2026

• Reports to: Generalist Coordinator

• Exempt/Non-exempt: Exempt

Essential Responsibilities:

• Hold responsibility for physical, mental and emotional wellbeing of participants; this includes:

  • Develop healthy and appropriate relationships with participants.

  • Provide direct supervision of participants as assigned.

• Support in the planning and facilitating of special events (e.g. evening events, weekly events, once a session events, off-campus day trips) as directed by the Generalist Coordinator.

• Support cabin coverage needs and provide bedtime coverage as assigned.

• Lifeguard, as part of the waterfront team (course offered by Chewonki). Lifeguard responsibilities:

  • Must complete skills verification after participating in Chewonki provided site specific training.

  • Maintains constant surveillance of campers at the waterfront; acts immediately and appropriately to secure safety of campers in the event of emergency.

  • Understand and implement appropriate response to changes in water conditions or weather conditions affecting the waterfront.

  • Assist in the management and care of the physical facilities and equipment in the waterfront program area.

• Instill joy and enthusiasm into the daily life of camp.

• Residential Responsibilities: This is a residential position. On-site housing is provided as part of the role and is available only while you are actively employed. Housing ends when employment concludes.

Qualifications:

• Must be at least 18 years old. 

• Must pass Criminal Background Check.

• Experience working with children in a camp-like setting.

• Experience working in educational spaces, preferred.

• Current Lifeguard Certification (offered by Chewonki).

  • Previous waterfront or lifeguard experience, preferred.

• This position is eligible for a stipend for driving responsibilities if the following qualifications are met:

  • Valid driver’s license and driving record approved by Chewonki’s Insurance Carrier, must attend Driver’s Training. Must be at least 21 years old (to drive participants).

• Attend required onboarding and training sessions.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to work in an active, outdoor environment in a variety of weather conditions.

• Must have the strength and endurance to provide constant supervision of campers both in and out of the water, including performing rescues in a variety of water conditions.

• Ability to lift, carry, and move equipment up to 50 lbs (e.g. rescue tubes, first aid kits).

• Ability to respond quickly in sudden situations including diving, running, or carrying individuals if needed. 

• Vision and hearing requirements: Able to see and hear effectively to monitor swimmers and campers/participants.

• Willingness to live in a camp setting and work irregular hours.

Salary & Benefits:

• Starting Salary: $3,100

• Incentives & Support: Travel stipend, housing and meals included, and a $200 refer-a-friend bonus