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Wilderness Rescue Jobs in West Orange, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Camp Lifeguard

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$6.0K/mo

BCNY's two well-equipped clubhouses in East Harlem and Flushing and its wilderness camp in Harriman ... Knowledge and experience in boating, waterfront safety, and water rescue techniques What We Offer

Wilderness Rescue information

See West Orange, NJ salary details

$52.7K

$93.4K

$135.6K

How much do wilderness rescue jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for wilderness rescue in West Orange, NJ is $93,432.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,800.00 and $105,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a wilderness rescue?

A Wilderness Rescue job involves locating, assisting, and evacuating individuals who are lost, injured, or in distress in remote or rugged outdoor environments. Rescuers use specialized skills in navigation, first aid, survival techniques, and sometimes technical rope rescue to ensure safety. They often work with emergency services, search and rescue teams, or park agencies to respond quickly to emergencies.

What skills and qualifications are needed for wilderness rescue?

To thrive as a Wilderness Rescue professional, a strong background in emergency medical care, navigation, survival skills, and physical fitness is typically required, often supported by certifications such as Wilderness First Responder (WFR) or EMT. Familiarity with technical rescue equipment, GPS devices, and radio communication systems is essential for safe and efficient operations. Exceptional teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills in this field. These skills and qualities ensure effective response in challenging, remote environments where timely and coordinated action can save lives.

What are common challenges faced by wilderness rescue professionals?

Wilderness Rescue professionals often encounter unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and limited access to resources, which can make rescue operations physically and mentally demanding. Team members must be prepared to adapt quickly to changing conditions and to execute complex rescues in remote areas where communication and logistics may be complicated. Collaboration with other agencies, such as park services or local emergency responders, is often required, and clear team coordination is crucial for safety and success. Candidates should be ready for irregular hours and the need to respond at a moment’s notice, making flexibility and resilience essential traits for this role.

How to become wilderness search and rescue?

To become a wilderness search and rescue (SAR) responder, individuals typically need to complete emergency medical training such as CPR and first aid, obtain wilderness survival skills, and gain experience in outdoor environments. Many SAR teams require volunteers to pass background checks, complete specialized training, and be physically fit to operate in challenging terrain and conditions.

What job categories do people searching Wilderness Rescue jobs in West Orange, NJ look for?

The top searched job categories for Wilderness Rescue jobs in West Orange, NJ are:

Infographic showing various Wilderness Rescue job openings in West Orange, NJ as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,432 per year, or $44.9 per hour.

Camp Lifeguard

Boys Club of NY

Manhattan, NY • On-site

$6.0K/mo

Other

PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Position: Camp Lifeguard
Location: BCNY @ Harriman State Park, 553 Arden Valley Road, Southfields, NY 10975
Salary: Starting at $6,000.00 + Room & Board, with additional salary based on experience, and certifications.
Schedule: June 23 to August 15, 2025
Employment Type: Seasonal, Full-time, Exempt
About Us
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.
Job Summary
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.
Responsibilities
  • 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.
Requirements
    • 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).
Qualifications
  • 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
What We Offer
  • 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.