Lifeguard - hourly

Life as an Hourly Lifeguard
The Fresh Air Fund (Fresh Air) is hiring hourly Lifeguards for our six summer camps in beautiful Hudson Valley, NY. Lifeguards are key members of the waterfront staff and oversee all swim and boating activities, teach swim lessons, and ensure camper safety. 

**Applicants need a currently valid American Red Cross Lifeguarding (Including Deep Water) with CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers and First Aid certification. Applicants must be strong swimmers & be able to participate in a skill verification proving they are capable of being a waterfront lifeguard. **

This position is a seasonal, hourly role. This position is at-will. Lifeguard work generally occurs between 9 am and 9 pm, and specific work hours will be assigned based on Fresh Air’s needs and the employee’s availability. Applicants do not have to live on site, but communal housing may be available if needed. The season for this role is from now until – August 15, 2026. 

What You’ll Do:
 
Waterfront Duties:

• Supervise free swim, boating activities, and special events at the camp waterfront.
• Instruct swim lessons and boating classes.
• Maintain waterfront, boating, and fishing facilities in compliance with safety regulations.
• Participate in daily fitness activities such as swimming, boating, and rescue practice.
• Follow emergency procedures and assist in managing buddy systems and checks.
•  Aid in submitting required evaluations and records to the Waterfront Director.

Waterfront Lifeguard Skill Verification Requirements:

• Swim 550 continuous yards using crawl and breaststroke.
• Perform a timed swim and rescue scenario (20 yards, surface dive, brick retrieval, and back swim).
• Retrieve dive rings in 4–7 feet of water.
• Tread water for 2 minutes using legs only.
• Proficiently demonstrate Red Cross lifeguarding rescues.

What We’re Looking For:

• Strong swimming ability. 
• At least 18 years old.
• A high school diploma is required; some college experience is preferred.
• A passion for working with children and at least one year of experience in a similar role.
• Proof of MMR vaccination or immunity required.

Compensation & Perks

• Compensation for this role is $18-$22/hour, commensurate with experience. 
• Meals provided during camp.
• No other benefits provided.

How to Apply
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and interviews are held virtually by our Camp Directors. No calls or recruiters please.

Discover Fresh Air Camps
The Fresh Air Fund is a youth development organization providing transformative outdoor experiences, at no cost, for New York City children from underserved communities. At six sleepaway camps in New York’s Mid-Hudson Valley, children have new experiences, learn new skills and gain new perspectives. Youth also participate in year-round leadership, career exploration and educational programs. 

The Fresh Air Fund is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer committed to inclusive hiring and fostering a diverse staff. We strongly encourage candidates of all identities, experiences, orientations, and communities to apply.