Lifeguard

Job Description

THE SALVATION ARMY

North and Central Illinois Division

Wonderland Camp and 

Conference Center

POSITION DESCRIPTION

POSITION TITLE : Lifeguard/Senior Counselor

LOCATION/DEPT : Wonderland Camp and Conference Center

REPORTS TO : Head Lifeguard

Activities Director

FLSA CATEGORY : Exempt

STATUS TYPE : TFT

Seasonal Position: May 19, 2025 - July 18, 2025 (opportunity for extended employment through August 17th)

OUTCOMES

The Lifeguard is to provide professional safety to all aspects of the Wonderland Camp Aquatic program. Also provides support to other programs of summer as needed.Will provide an aquatic experience for campers with a Christian message.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Participate in aquatic and general staff training weeks. Assist with aquatic orientation during general staff training. Work with the Aquatics Manager in planning this orientation. Assist in supervision and instruction of all aquatic activities: swimming, diving, boating and water safety. Set example for guests. Participate in the total camp program. Be involved with assigned cabin and unit and assume other duties as requested by Program Manager if weather/circumstances prevent ongoing aquatic activities. Maintain daily general cleanliness/repair or pool, pool building and pool equipment. Contact Maintenance Department for mechanical problems. Maintain daily general cleanliness/repair of boathouse, boat room, docks, beach, pontoon boat, canoes, rowboats, speed boats, fun bugs, funyaks, oars, paddles, and related lake front equipment/area. Complete work scheduled for all aquatic personnel in a timely fashion. Help plan water carnivals and inclement weather classes (work with unit directors). Participate in daily/weekly exercise and in-service training of lifeguards. Work cooperatively with Aquatics Manager and Camp Leadership to facilitate programming requirements/ requests for all groups. This will include swim lessons, carnivals, basic water safety for staff/campers. Assist cabin Counselor in lodging to which you have been assigned. Participate with program assessments during the summer and turn in keys upon departure. Participate in Wonderland’s aquatic training session per contracted dates/availability.

Other Duties

Participate in and encourage attendance at staff devotions, outings and worship services. Maintain a sense of professionalism in aquatic areas: self control, service positive attitude, work ethic and sense of ministry. Maintain a servant attitude, function as part of the ministry leadership team. All other duties as assigned.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS

This position reports to the Head Lifeguard and the Activities Director.

In contacts related to this position’s duties this individual act as a representative of the Army and its mission.

PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENTS

This individual will be evaluated on how effectively the outcomes of this position are achieved, as well as the timeliness, accuracy, and completeness of accomplishing assigned goals.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

Minimum 1 year of college or equivalent. Must have experience as a lifeguard or similar position. Minimum age of 16 preferred.

COMPENTENCIES

Must be an individual of the Christian faith who has a strong personal relationship with the Lord, attends church on a regular basis, and a desire to lead others spiritually. In agreement with the philosophy, goals and objectives of The Salvation Army Wonderland Camp and Conference Center. A commitment to support and promote the mission of The Salvation Army and a passion for camp ministry. Able to relate God’s handiwork through aquatic activities and in relationship with the Word of God in programming initiatives. Able to live on camp grounds throughout duration of employment. Good communication and interpersonal skills. An attention to detail A positive attitude and the ability to be flexible in light of changing job situations/priorities. Demonstrated ability to use initiative and be a self-starter. Knowledge of basic swimming techniques, boating and boat motor operation. Knowledge of pool and spa operation and chemical testing. Current ARC CPR for the Professional Rescuer, and Standard First Aid. Current Water Safety Instruction Certificate preferred and Lifeguard training. Some supervisory experience.

POSITION LIMITATIONS

This individual will only commit Army resources that have been allocated or approved. This individual will keep the Head Lifeguard and Activities Director informed on all critical issues relating to his/her area of responsibility. This individual will adhere to all Army policies and procedures in carrying out the responsibilities of this position.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

This position is required to do light to heavy physical work.  In order to successfully perform the essential functions of this position, the employee is regularly required to use pool or water equipment.  The work environment for this position includes an office and outdoor/pool environment with a low to high noise level.

THE SALVATION ARMY MISSION STATEMENT

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

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