THF Summer Camp Lifeguard/Counselor

The Henry Ford • Dearborn, MI

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Henry Ford is a nonprofit organization that provides unique educational experiences based on authentic objects, stories, and lives from America's traditions of ingenuity, resourcefulness, and innovation. The purpose is to inspire people to learn from these traditions to help shape a better future. Counselors are responsible for delivering high-quality, fun, educational, and safe camp experiences for campers ages 6–13. They facilitate pre-designed weekly programming, support camper wellbeing, and contribute to a positive camp culture. Counselors may also support aquatic-based activities and are expected to maintain a safe environment by applying lifeguarding, first aid, and emergency response procedures when assigned. Lifeguard-certified staff provide an additional level of safety supervision and emergency preparedness across camp programs. The Counselor Flex Pathway staff perform the same essential job functions as Counselors but serve in a full day, highly adaptive role that supports Extended Care and operational needs across all camp levels. This pathway is ideal for staff who thrive in variety, problem solving, and camp-wide support.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Ability to successfully complete all required camp safety and emergency response training
• Current Lifeguard, CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications preferred
• Strong observational and risk-assessment skills with a commitment to camper safety and wellbeing

Nice To Haves

• Some college preferred in the fields of education, science, history, or other related field
• Current Lifeguard Certification preferred
• certifications in CPR, First Aid, and AED operation strongly preferred
• Waterfront Lifeguard Certification (or ability to obtain certification prior to the start of camp) preferred for staff assigned to aquatic programming
• Collaborative team player committed to building a positive camp environment
• Passionate about working with and supporting youth
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to guide and develop counselors
• Confident supervising large groups of children in structured and unstructured settings
• Self-directed professional who thrives with minimal supervision
• Creative problem-solver who adapts quickly to dynamic camp needs
• Highly organized multi-tasker able to manage competing priorities effectively
• Knowledge of water safety practices and emergency response procedures
• Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions in emergency situations

Responsibilities

• Facilitate safe, engaging, and educational programming aligned with THF’s learning philosophy
• Ensure the safety and wellbeing of all campers by knowing and applying all camp policies and emergency procedures
• Maintain accurate records, including daily attendance and incident documentation
• Support maintenance of camp spaces, supplies, and daily flow
• Communicate effectively and professionally with campers, families, and colleagues
• Uphold The Henry Ford and Learning & Engagement guidelines in program delivery
• Provide active supervision during all camp activities, including aquatic-based programming when assigned
• Serve as a certified Waterfront Lifeguard when assigned, providing active surveillance of aquatic activities, enforcing water safety rules, and responding to emergencies in accordance with lifeguard training and camp safety procedures
• Utilize lifeguarding, first aid, CPR, and emergency response training to maintain a safe environment and respond appropriately to incidents
• Assist in implementing risk management and safety protocols to ensure camper wellbeing
• Perform other duties as assigned
• Lead and supervise Extended Care programming before and after camp
• Provide operational and programmatic support across all camp levels as needed
• Assist with activity facilitation, rotations, setup/reset of program spaces, and camper support
• Offer one-on-one or small group support for campers who need additional assistance
• Support arrival/dismissal, lunch coverage, and transitions
• Work closely with Camp Supervisors to anticipate and respond to daily staffing and camper support needs

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree