Camp Cherokee Waterfront Director

YMCA; Blacksburg (SC); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

YMCA Camp Cherokee in Blacksburg, SC seeks a Waterfront Director to lead and supervise a dynamic aquatic program for campers and staff. You will oversee lifeguards, design engaging classes, and ensure a safe waterfront environment with well-maintained equipment and supplies.

The role requires lifeguard certification (WSI preferred), CPR/First Aid, and at least 21 years of age or two years of college. Strong leadership and communication skills are essential for daily training and operations.

Qualifications

• Must be lifeguard certified (WSI preferred) and CPR/First Aid certified.
• Minimum age 21 or two years of college completed.
• Demonstrated leadership and strong communication skills.
• Ability to supervise waterfront staff and coordinate safety procedures.

Responsibilities

• Plan, manage and supervise a safe and fun aquatic program.
• Evaluate swim levels of campers and staff.
• Implement creative aquatic classes.
• Assist staff in writing lesson plans for aquatic classes.
• Provide effective swim lessons for entry-level swimmers.
• Train and supervise waterfront staff and lifeguards.
• Conduct weekly in-service training for lifeguards.
• Manage waterfront facilities and equipment.
• Conduct daily equipment checks and inventory; file maintenance needs.
• Ensure safety and high-quality aquatic classes.
• Open/Close waterfront operations and bridge sessions.
• Organize lifeguard staff for field trips to aquatic facilities.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Physical stamina

Waterfront supervision

Education

Lifeguard certification (WSI preferred)

21 years of age or two years of college

First Aid and CPR certification

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:

To provide a safe and fun aquatic program through YMCA Camp Cherokee’s program design and implementation, specific to camper age differences at Camp Cherokee’s waterfront. Provide leadership and management to lifeguards and other camp staff, while maintaining the overall well-being of the waterfront facilities and equipment.

• Plan, manage and supervise a safe and fun aquatic program.
• Effectively evaluate swim levels of all campers and staff members.
• Implement creative aquatic classes.
• Assist staff members in writing lesson plans for aquatic classes.
• Provide an effective swim lesson class for campers with entry level swim skills.
• Focus on skill development for campers and staff involved in the waterfront program (swimming and boating).
• Train and supervise waterfront staff/ counselor responsibilities
• Train lifeguards and counselors in waterfront responsibilities.
• Discuss planning and implementation during staff training(s).
• Organize lifeguard staff during field trips with aquatic facilities.
• Ensure lifeguards and counselors are providing a safe and high-quality aquatic classes.
• Manage waterfront staff evaluation process.
• Communicate directly with lifeguards and program director(s).
• Conduct a weekly in-service training for lifeguard staff members.
• Manage the physical equipment and facility at the waterfront area
• Upkeep the waterfront area including trash, lost and found clothing, PFDs and boating equipment.
• Assist lifeguards and counselors in the proper use of waterfront equipment (PFDs and boating).
• Properly set up the waterfront prior to the arrival of participants.
• Conduct aquatic equipment inventory prior to and concluding summer camp.
• Conduct daily equipment checks, and file any program orders or maintenance needed.
• Monitor the waterfront daily, and keep the area free of hazards and debris.
• Assist other program staff when needed.
• Assist Evening Program Director.
• Create a positive and enthusiastic atmosphere at the waterfront for campers and staff.
• Opening/ Closing Day Responsibilities
• Plan and supervise campers and staff during “bridge” sessions.
• Actively assist in “OD” responsibilities.
• Identify and maintain all aquatic equipment including but not limited to PFDs, canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, aqua trampoline, aquatic ID bands, paddles and lifeguard equipment. Note when repairs are needed or new program materials are needed.

Qualifications:

• Waterfront Director must be at least lifeguard certified (preferred-WSI, Waterfront)
• Must be 21 years of age or have completed at least two years of college.
• Must be certified in First Aid and CPR.
• Must attend all pre-camp training, retreats, and opening training session.
• Possess leadership qualities and ability to use sound judgment.
• Good health, enthusiasm, individual maturity, moral character, team qualities, and communication skills.
• Possess interest in the development of children.
• Must be able to endure hot temperatures, physical exertion, manual labor, behavioral conflicts, and must be able to walk, run, and swim every day.
• Physical requirements of the Waterfront Director position include endurance during prolonged activities, bending, stooping and lifting (boating equipment). Must be willing to operate under daily exposure to hot temperatures. Requires sufficient strength and mobility in order to safely supervise children’s activities.