Camp Aquatics – NJ Lifeguard 2027

DEAN Camps; Lawrenceville (NJ); On-site; USD 23,000 - 26,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pay range: $17-19/hour

Paid training (state minimum wage or $

Background checks reimbursed

Referral bonus: $50 per hired referral

Free snacks, coffee, breakfast, and on

Employee discounts on camp rates

Job summary

DEAN Camps is seeking a Lifeguard & Support Counselor for the New Jersey summer season. You will ensure a safe, fun, and inclusive swimming environment, while also supporting camp operations behind the scenes to keep daily activities running smoothly.

Requirements include current lifeguard certification with First Aid/CPR, at least four years of lifeguard experience in a camp, and the ability to react calmly under pressure.

Qualifications

• Certified Lifeguard with First Aid and CPR/AED – Current American Red Cross or equivalent certification.
• Experienced swimmer and rescuer with 4 years of lifeguard experience in a camp setting.
• Alert and attentive with strong observational skills.
• Friendly and approachable with children aged 4–16 years.
• Able to react quickly and calmly to emergencies while maintaining safety.

Responsibilities

• Enforce water safety rules for campers and staff.
• Supervise swimmers at all depths.
• Manage weekly camper swim assessments.
• Perform rescues and administer First Aid/CPR in emergencies.
• Inspect aquatic areas and safety equipment to prevent hazards.
• Engage with campers to build confidence in the water.
• Communicate with staff about water safety and camper progress.
• Provide behind-the-scenes support across camp operations when pool time is not occurring.
• Assist with activity setup and breakdown; support transitions between buildings and blocks.

Skills

Lifeguard certification

First Aid/CPR/AED

Experience with children

Emergency response

Job description

Lifeguard & Support Counselor - NJ

Who We Are

At DEAN Camps, we create life‑changing opportunities for young people to discover their passions, explore endless possibilities, achieve meaningful goals, and navigate thrilling adventures—all while developing character and skills that last a lifetime.

Guided by our core values of Compassion, Trust, Growth, and Creativity, we foster an environment where learning, discovery, and personal development thrive.

Our vision is to inspire generations of resilient, compassionate, and confident individuals who contribute positively to their communities and the world.

We operate across DC, MD, NJ, PA, and VA, offering all-inclusive programs that make summer exciting for children and easy for families. Learn more: DEAN Camps.

What You’ll Do

As a Lifeguard and Support Counselor, you’ll play a key role in ensuring a safe, fun, and inclusive swimming environment for campers and staff. When not assigned to the pool, you’ll serve as a Support Counselor, i.e. assisting with behind‑the‑scenes camp operations and ensuring smooth transitions across campus. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Enforcing water safety and rules for all campers and staff to prevent accidents
• Supervising swimmers at all depths
• Manage weekly camper swim assessments
• Performing rescues & administering First Aid/CPR in emergencies
• Inspecting and maintaining aquatic areas & safety equipment to avoid any unsafe situations
• Engaging with campers to build confidence in the water
• Communicating with staff about water safety and camper progress
• You are a reliable, proactive presence who helps the camp day run smoothly. In addition to pool responsibilities, you’ll provide flexible, behind‑the‑scenes support across camp operations, including:
• Assisting with activity setup and breakdown
• Supporting smooth camper transitions between buildings and activity blocks
• Subbing into camper supervision as needed
• Moving equipment and supplies across campus to support programming
• Responding quickly to operational needs identified by leadership

What Makes You a Great Fit

• Certified Lifeguard with First Aid and CPR/AED – Current American Red Cross or equivalent certification
• Experienced swimmer and rescuer – 4 years of prior lifeguard experience in a camp setting
• Alert & Attentive – Strong observational skills and ability to stay focused for long periods without prompting
• Friendly & Approachable – Experience working with children aged 4-16 years
• Quick to react & calm under pressure – Proven ability to handle emergencies while maintaining a safe and encouraging atmosphere for campers
• Operationally Minded & Flexible – Willing to step into support roles across campus, assist with logistics and transitions, and proactively help wherever needed to keep camp running smoothly, anytime pool time is not occurring

Schedule and Requirements

• Full on-site availability during the summer: June–August, Monday–Friday
  • Hours: camp operates 7am–6pm, team members typically work 35 hours per week within this timeframe
  • Ability to commute to: 2500 Main St, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
• Must be up to date on all immunizations and willing to provide emergency health information upon hire
• Ability to lift 50 lbs, respond quickly to emergencies, and work in an active, outdoor environment
• Must have valid First Aid, CPR, and Lifeguard certification

Perks and Benefits

• Pay range: $17-19/hour
• FLSA Status: This is a seasonal full-time, non-exempt position under the FLSA
• Paid training: remote training on: including safety, DEIB, classroom management, and more + in-person team training the weekend prior to camp; please note that training is paid at state minimum wage, or $12/hr, whichever is higher
• All required background checks and certifications fully reimbursed
• Referral Bonus: Earn $50 per hired referral, with no referral limits
• Daily perks: Free snacks, coffee, breakfast, and parking
• Employee discounts on camp rates for family members, outdoor gear, art supplies, electronics, and more
• Career growth: Gain resume-building experience, letters of recommendation, and networking opportunities

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

DEAN Camps is an equal employment opportunity employer. We value diversity and inclusion and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. Hiring decisions are based on job‑related qualifications and business needs and are made without regard to race, sex, national origin, color, age, disability, veteran status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, religion, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.