Program Specialist - Waterfront Specialist

YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties • Port Orchard, WA

17h • $19 - $20 • Onsite

About The Position

The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties is seeking a Program Specialist to join our team.

The YMCA focuses on empowering people in all forms, by improving health and well-being and inspiring action in and across our neighborhoods.

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading non-profit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

As the The Waterfront Specialist, you will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of waterfront operations, the swim check process, lifeguard rotations, and conducting regular lifeguard drills.

Additionally, they will manage the upkeep of staff certification records and ensure ongoing training throughout the summer, in collaboration with association aquatics staff. The ideal candidate will have experience guarding on a lake or in an open water setting, as well as experience as a Lead Lifeguard in a pool or camp environment. A current YMCA Lifeguard Certification and a current Red Cross Lifeguard Supervisor Certification are required, or the willingness to obtain both prior to the start of camp.

The Waterfront Specialist actively supervises and maintains safe, enjoyable, age-appropriate waterfront programs and events. Supervises boating instructors and lifeguards. Provides progressive instruction in waterfront activities. Works with leadership staff and program director to organize and implement overall camp program. Provides a quality experience to campers and families focused on YMCA core values: honesty, respect, responsibility, and caring. Represents the YMCA and self in a professional manner of safety and fun.

Requirements

• A minimum age of 21.
• Knowledge of YMCA Camp Seymour’s operation procedures, especially the supervision and operation of program areas or the ability to acquire that knowledge.
• The ability to effectively communicate with staff and participants of all ages.
• The ability to demonstrate a friendly, courteous and professional manner while working with members, parents, guests and staff and the ability to understand, articulate and enforce YMCA policies and procedures in a positive way.
• Current first aid and CPR certifications from nationally recognized organizations preferred.
• Able and willing to complete online Child Abuse Prevention training on first day, and other online and in-person training as required.
• Must be able to pass Background and Reference checks (in accordance with the WA State Fair Chance Act).
• You are committed to valuing and promoting diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.
• A commitment to valuing and promoting diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.
• Minimum 21 years of age.
• One season or more of camp experience required.
• Positive attitude and previous experience with diverse populations.
• Knowledge and skills in program activities and related equipment set-up, and the ability to instruct participants in age appropriate techniques.
• Required: Current Small Craft Safety Certification or YMCA Lifeguard/Red Cross Lifeguard certification (or the ability to obtain these certifications during staff training).
• Required: Washington State Boaters' License (must be obtained by the start of staff training).
• CPR, First Aid, AED certifications.

Nice To Haves

• Two years of experience working in a residential camp or facility is preferred.
• Preferred: Experience in teaching boating and/or two years of personal boating experience.

Responsibilities

• Ensure that program areas are ready for group use prior to group arrival when possible.
• Know and enforce rules as necessary to ensure safe use of program areas.
• Maintain good public relations with participants and fellow staff, representing the best interests of the YMCA while providing excellent customer service at every opportunity.
• Work with Senior Group Programs Director to create a schedule to meet the needs of each group every weekend.
• Assist with booking staff for weekends and creating staff schedules.
• Be familiar with emergency procedures.
• If qualified, administer basic first aid as required; if not, direct participant to director, host or group leader. Make sure the director, host or group leader is informed of any accidents, and contribute to the completion of accident or incident reports as necessary.
• Host meals and assist with dining hall operations.
• Deliver excellent customer service at check-in and check-out through professional appearance, positive attitude, implementation of COVID-19 standards, and ensuring facility is cleaned and ready for each group.
• Plan, organize, and facilitate all waterfront programming for Day Camp, Overnight Camp and visiting groups.
• Monitor waterfront equipment and supplies; repair and resupply as necessary.
• Work with leadership staff & all staff to coordinate and implement overall camp program.
• Serve as a cabin counselor when coverage is needed.
• Maintain weekly observations on staff performance; give staff positive and constructive feedback; communicate significant observations to direct supervisors.
• Meet performance measurement by telling the Y story and raising charitable dollars to fulfill our mission.
• Assist staff leadership team in reaching campaign goals through recruiting campaigners, making personal asks and supporting branch events.

Benefits

• 40 hours/week with Saturday and Sunday’s off
• Ability to apply as an internal candidate to a year-round, Full or Part-Time position
• Build lasting connections and employment experience
• Accrue Paid Sick Leave at 1.23 hours for every 40 hours worked

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed