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Summer Camp Lifeguard & Waterfront Staff, Fresh Air Camps
Fresh Air Camps | Hudson Valley, NY | June 15 - August 15, 2026
Life as a Lifeguard
Fresh Air Camps is hiring Lifeguards for our six summer camps in beautiful Hudson Valley, NY. Lifeguards are key members of the waterfront staff and oversee all swim and boating activities, teach swim lessons, and ensure camper safety. When not working at the waterfront, Lifeguards serve as Camp Counselors, living with campers and participating in camp activities.
**Applicants do not need a prior lifeguard certification but must be a strong swimmer. Free Red Cross Lifeguard Certification is provided during orientation.**
This position requires living onsite at camp from June 15 - August 15, 2026, shared housing and meals provided. Compensation for this role is $2,600 for the 8-week summer season.
What You'll Do:
Waterfront Duties:

• Supervise free swim, boating activities, and special events at the camp waterfront.
• Instruct swim lessons and boating classes.
• Maintain waterfront, boating, and fishing facilities in compliance with safety regulations.
• Participate in daily fitness activities such as swimming, boating, and rescue practice.
• Follow emergency procedures and assist in managing buddy systems and checks.
• Submit required evaluations and records to the Waterfront Director.

Camp Counselor Duties:

• Serve as a Camp Counselor in the assigned village during non-waterfront times, including living in cabins with campers and co-counselors.
• Provide supervision, leadership, and care to campers, including activity transitions, cabin time, meals, and behavior management.
• Prioritize camper needs when making decisions and uphold a camper-first philosophy.
• Participate actively in the camp community - including campfires, overnights, hikes, swimming, and village meetings. (Some lifting or physical activity may be required.)
• Communicate, model, and uphold camp policies, traditions, and community standards.
• Ensure the safety, supervision and well-being of all campers at all times.
• Demonstrate professionalism and approachability, maintaining healthy boundaries.
• Serve as a role model for campers and staff by showing enthusiasm, empathy, and commitment to camp values.
• Live and work in a communal camp environment - including shared cabins, limited privacy, and group dining. Time off during each session will be scheduled by the supervisor.
• Care for and responsibly use camp facilities, property, and equipment.
• Be familiar with and follow all emergency and safety procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the success of the camp community.

Lifeguard Course Requirements:

• Swim 550 continuous yards using crawl and breaststroke.
• Perform a timed swim and rescue scenario (20 yards, surface dive, brick retrieval, and back swim).
• Retrieve dive rings in 4-7 feet of water.
• Tread water for 2 minutes using legs only.

What We're Looking For:

• Strong swimming ability required for eligibility for American Red Cross Lifeguard Training.
• At least 18 years old by the start of camp (June 29, 2026).
• A high school diploma is required; some college experience is preferred.
• Commitment to work and live onsite at camp for the entire summer season (June 15 - August 15, 2026).
• A passion for working with children and at least one year of experience in a similar role.

As part of our commitment to maintaining a safe and healthy workplace and to protecting the participants we serve, The Fresh Air Fund requires all camp staff to meet applicable vaccination requirements in accordance with federal, state, and local laws, and to be fully vaccinated against polio, MMR, TDap, and varicella (and Hepatitis B for Health Care staff). As new public health issues arise, The Fresh Air Fund may require additional vaccinations. Proof of vaccination or an approved exemption will be required as a condition of employment.
Compensation & Perks

• Compensation for this role is $2,600 for the 8-week summer season.
• All meals and housing provided during camp.
• American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification during orientation.

How to Apply
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and interviews are held virtually by our Camp Directors.
Discover Fresh Air Camps
Since 1877, Fresh Air Fund Camps have opened new doors for over 1.8 million children, offering transformative summer programs and year-round leadership opportunities. Our six residential camps are located in the beautiful Hudson Valley, offering a stunning natural setting for exploration and growth. Each camp provides unique programming tailored to different age groups and interests, from outdoor adventure to arts and sciences, creating an enriching environment for both campers and staff. Learn more about Fresh Air Camps: www.freshair.org/learn-about-our-camps/
Diversity & Inclusion Statement
The Fresh Air Fund is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer committed to inclusive hiring and fostering a diverse staff. We strongly encourage candidates of all identities, experiences, orientations, and communities to apply.
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