Sailing Instructor - Camp Juniper Knoll
About The Position
Looking for a summer job that makes a difference? Join the Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana 2026 camp staff today! Our Camp Juniper Knoll overnight camp is a place where energetic and passionate staff come together to provide a safe and positive learning environment for girls ages 5-17. As a camp Sailing Instructor and Lifeguard, you will be critical to the success of the summer with the responsibility of supervising campers and staff in camp’s lakefront aquatic activities with an emphasis in sailing. In this role you will supervise and guide campers through on-site sailing instruction, progressive learning experiences, and water-based program activities.
Requirements
- Loves to interact with children and has prior experience working with children of various ages
- Enjoys spending time outdoors and has prior experience working in an outdoor setting
- Must be 18+ years old as of June 9, 2026 and possess a high school diploma or GED
- Must possess current certification in First Aid, CPR, and Lifeguarding. Waterfront Lifeguard certification is strongly preferred. Lifeguard certifications must be from American Red Cross or an equivalent organization. Training is available through GSGCNWI, however, candidates must pass the training including the pre-training skills test in order to work for the council in this role.
- Proof of health physical clearing the candidate for work in a camp setting
- Willingness to live and work in an indoor and outdoor camp setting, which includes working irregular hours with limited or simple equipment, rustic facilities, wildlife and insects; limited technology while at camp, and daily exposure to sun, rain, and other weather conditions
Nice To Haves
- Candidates with certifications in small craft safety and/or sailing are strongly preferred. Experience with Sunfish sailboats is preferred.
Responsibilities
- Provide fun, positive, and active leadership to campers
- Help build a supportive environment where campers can grow, make new friends, and try new things
- Role model problem-solving, collaboration, and initiative to campers and other staff
- Supervise and guard all aquatics activities, utilizing certifications, and emergency management as needed
- Provide quality water-based programming and lessons
- Act as instructor for sailing programs and other boating programs as needed
- Provide sailing demonstrations as a tool to instruct sailing lessons
- Maintain proper care of sailboats and equipment and instruction of such care
- Oversee campers during group activities, meals, and transitions to and from scheduled events
- Maintain responsibility for aquatics facilities, shower house, and equipment in regard to condition, readiness, and cleanliness
- Assist with other camp programs when aquatics areas are closed
- Other duties as assigned
Benefits
- Pay: $125 per day ($115 per day if commuting)
- Included room and board if living on-site
- Lifeguarding with First Aid and CPR certifications
- Aquatic Small Craft training
- Access to GSGCNWI Employee Assistance Program
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Education Level
High school or GED
