YMCA Camp Silver Creek - Lifeguard 2026

Family YMCA of Marion & Polk Counties•Sublimity, OR

11h•$18•Onsite

About The Position

JOB TITLE: Camp Lifeguard DEPARTMENT: Camp (40) REPORTS TO: Waterfront Director LOCATION: Camp Silver Creek STATUS: Part-Time Hourly PAY RATE: $18.10/hour Position Summary Who We Are: Since 1938, generations of campers have come to experience the joy and beauty of Camp Silver Creek. Located deep inside Oregon's Silver Falls State Park, historic Camp Silver Creek is a magical place for children and adults alike. Towering evergreens and a stream flow through the camp’s four units. In the center of camp, a beautiful field is perfect for field games and the lake welcomes boaters, fishermen, and even the early morning polar bear swimmers. We are actively hiring great role models who are energetic, collaborative, and hard working to join the team for this summer. The Role: As a camp lifeguard, you will provide lifeguarding services to the camp community for the lake at Camp Silver Creek. Our Culture Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.

Requirements

At least 16 years of age.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively collaborate with staff, campers, and leadership.
Ability to respond appropriately to safety and emergency situations.
Completion of all training and onboarding prior to program start date or training due dates. Training is provided as needed after hiring.
Must have reliable transportation to Camp Silver Creek and/or Camp Greider.
Has at least six weeks previous experience in a similar aquatic area or has completed training.
MUST BE OPEN WATER LIFEGUARD CERTIFIED or able to become certified, (certification classes available upon employment).
Must be available during afternoons and weekends: Camp Season runs from June 15 - August 23.
Must be physically capable of observing and listening for stressful situations at all times.
Must be physically capable of lifting 40 pounds.
Must be able to quickly reach a person and/or situation to prevent harm.
Swim 150 yards.
Tread water for 2 minutes without using hands or arms and be able to swim 50 yards after.
Swim 20 yards, retrieve a 10-pound brick from 7+ feet of water, swim with the brick out of the water for 20 yards and exit the water in less than 140 seconds.
All candidates must have reliable transportation.
Job offers are contingent upon completion of a rigorous criminal history background check.

Responsibilities

Provide lifeguarding to lake activities.
Participate in skills check/verification of all lifeguards.
Follow through with pool instructional programs.
Serve as a good role model for camp behavior for staff and campers.
Assume responsibility for the health, welfare and safety of campers under their supervision.
Create a safe environment for all participants including use of safety ratios.
Maintain lake and surrounding areas.
Maintain facility to insure the safety of the participants and the security of the facility.
Maintain appropriate level of personal fitness and high level of competency in rescue techniques.
Report all incidents and injuries using the appropriate form(s).
Report all maintenance concerns to your supervisor.
Be aware of and follow facility emergency plans.
Show proficiency in opening and closing procedures.
Continue education while maintaining the current level of certification.
Pass drills with 95% proficiency.
All fully certified lifeguards are obligated to be available for no less than 10 hours per week and two Sundays per month.
Arrive 15 minutes prior to shift and be ready for duty at least 5 minutes ahead of time.
Maintain proper care and security of equipment
Be consistent with YMCA Aquatic policy on discipline and standards.