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How much do sleepaway camp jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for sleepaway camp in the United States is $14.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.02 and $16.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Sleepaway Camp vs Camp Counselor?

AspectSleepaway CampCamp Counselor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; CPR/First Aid certifications often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; CPR/First Aid certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentResidential setting at a summer camp, often remote or outdoorOutdoor or indoor camp settings, supervising children during activities
Employer & Industry UsageSummer camps, youth recreation organizations

Sleepaway Camp and Camp Counselor roles share similar credentials and work environments, focusing on supervising children in outdoor or residential camp settings. While Sleepaway Camp emphasizes overnight stays and residential duties, Camp Counselors may also work day camps. Both roles are essential in youth recreation and summer programs, with overlapping responsibilities and certifications.

What are some common challenges faced by staff working at a sleepaway camp, and how can they be managed?

Staff at sleepaway camps often face challenges such as adapting to a fast-paced environment, managing homesickness among campers, and balancing multiple responsibilities, from supervising activities to ensuring camper safety. Teamwork and clear communication are essential, as staff members frequently collaborate to resolve issues and create a positive environment. Building strong relationships with both campers and co-workers, practicing patience, and maintaining flexibility can help staff manage these challenges effectively and contribute to a rewarding camp experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sleepaway Camp Counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sleepaway Camp Counselor, you generally need experience working with children, basic first aid/CPR certification, and strong leadership abilities. Familiarity with camp management software, safety protocols, and outdoor activity equipment is beneficial. Exceptional communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help counselors build trust and create a positive environment. These skills ensure the safety, well-being, and enjoyment of campers, which is essential for a successful camp experience.

What is a sleepaway camp?

A sleepaway camp, also known as an overnight camp, is a type of summer camp where children or teenagers stay for several days or weeks away from home, typically in a rural or natural setting. Campers participate in a variety of activities such as sports, arts and crafts, swimming, and outdoor adventures while living in cabins or tents. Sleepaway camps often focus on helping campers build independence, social skills, and lasting friendships in a supportive environment.
More about Sleepaway Camp jobs
What cities are hiring for Sleepaway Camp jobs? Cities with the most Sleepaway Camp job openings:
What states have the most Sleepaway Camp jobs? States with the most job openings for Sleepaway Camp jobs include:
Sleepaway Camp jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sleepaway Camp job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 38% Part Time, 10% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 95% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,158 per year, or $15 per hour.
Lifeguard - Sleepaway Camp

Lifeguard - Sleepaway Camp

Boys' Club of New York

Arden, NY

$7.0K - $8.0K/mo

Other

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Position: Lifeguard

Location: BCNY @ Harriman State Park, 553 Arden Valley Road, Southfields, NY 10975

Employment Dates: June 22 August 15, 2026

Total Salary: $7,000 - $8,000

Employment Type: Seasonal, Full-Time, Exempt

Housing: Residential position with shared staff lodging provided

Reports To: Waterfront Director

About Us

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, BCNYs 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.

Job Summary

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.

Responsibilities

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.

Camper Engagement & Skill Support

  • 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.

Training, Documentation & Collaboration

  • 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 during cabin overnight programs, without assuming overnight cabin supervision responsibilities.

Camp-Wide Engagement, Cabin Support, Operations & CIT Mentorship

  • Actively participate in daily camp life, supporting cabin routines and community moments including meals, morning reflections, community cyphers, psychological time, evening programs (EPs), and nighttime routines to ensure consistent structure and supervision.

  • Support cabin groups dailyat the waterfront or elsewhere as neededto maintain supervision and appropriate coverage.

  • Engage Counselors-in-Training (CITs) as active helpers within waterfront programming, modeling vigilance, safe practices, positive youth engagement, and professionalism.

  • Support CIT development by gradually involving them in supervision support, equipment setup, scanning techniques, and peer mentorship under the direction of the Waterfront Director.

Qualifications

  • Lifeguard Certification Requirements:

  • Candidates must meet one of the following certification pathways:

  • Currently hold a lifeguard certification from a nationally recognized and accredited training organization that includes Waterfront Skills; OR

  • Hold a current lifeguard certification from a nationally recognized and accredited training organization and successfully complete the BCNY Waterfront Skills Lifeguard Training prior to the start of camp; OR

  • Candidates without a current lifeguard certification may apply but must successfully complete both the BCNY Lifeguard Training and BCNY Waterfront Skills Lifeguard Training prior to the start of General Staff Training.

  • Continued eligibility for the Lifeguard position is contingent upon successful completion of all required certification and training components. Failure to meet these requirements may result in ineligibility for the Lifeguard role for the summer season.

  • Entry-level position; prior lifeguarding or camp waterfront experience preferred but not required.

  • Ability to remain alert, calm, and responsive in high-pressure situations.

  • Strong communication skills and ability to follow safety protocols consistently.

  • Ability to work collaboratively with waterfront staff, Division Leaders, and camp leadership.

  • Willingness to work rotating schedules and support multiple waterfront activities.

Additional Requirements

  • Flexible and adaptable, with a willingness to work a demanding schedule.

  • Meet all required immunizations (MMR and Poly required).

  • You must be able to work in an outside environment, where you have the ability to walk/hike daily, at various grades, elevations, and on uneven terrain regardless of weather conditions.

  • Must be able to lift 40-50 pounds, and carry and load luggage, tables, chairs, and other program equipment

  • Other duties as assigned

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.

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