Overview
Join our vibrant summer camp team as a seasonal summer liefeguard. Help ignite the spirit of adventure, learning, and growth in children and youth! In this dynamic role, you will serve as a positive role model, fostering a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment where campers can explore new activities, develop essential skills, and create lasting memories. Your energy, enthusiasm, and dedication will inspire young minds to thrive throughout the summer season. This paid position offers a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful impact while honing your leadership and childcare skills.

Seasonal Lifeguard

Job Details

Temporary-Summer

Trenton, NJ Aquatics

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Warns swimmers of improper activities or danger and enforces pool regulations and water safety policies.
Administers first aid in the event of injury
Rescues swimmers in distress or danger of drowning
Administers CPR and/or artificial respiration, if necessary.
Maintains active surveillance of the pool area.
Knows/reviews all emergency procedures and responds to emergency situations immediately in accordance with YMCA policies, procedures, and the “safe-in-six” model. Completes related reports as required.
Maintains effective, positive relationships with the members, participants and other staff.
Knows, understands, and consistently applies safety rules, policies and guidelines for the pool and aquatic area. Maintains accurate records as required by the YMCA and/or the state Health Department code.
Performs equipment checks and ensures appropriate equipment is available as needed.
Checks the pool for hazardous conditions when arriving.
Performs chemical testing when not guarding, as required, and takes appropriate action.
Attends all staff meetings and in-service training.

Requirements

Minimum age of 17.
Certifications: CPR for the Professional Rescuer, AED, Basic First Aid and Emergency Oxygen.
Current Lifeguard certification or equivalent.
Ability to maintain certification-level of physical and mental readiness.
Must demonstrate lifeguard skills in accordance with YMCA standards.
Professional and courteous demeanor
Good communication and public relation skills

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Hear noises and distress signals in the aquatic environment, including in the water and anywhere around the zone of responsibility. Remain alert with no lapses of consciousness.
Meet strength and lifting requirements. See and observe all sections of an assigned zone or area of responsibility.

Skills

Strong youth management abilities to maintain an organized and respectful environment
Knowledge of first aid procedures to respond promptly to minor injuries or emergencies
Experience working with children in educational or childcare settings, including daycare or early childhood education
Familiarity with special education practices to support diverse learning needs
Background in teaching, tutoring, or coaching that enhances instructional delivery during activities
Ability to handle behavior management challenges with patience and professionalism
Excellent communication skills for engaging with children, parents, and team members effectively

This position is ideal for energetic individuals passionate about working with children in a summer camp aquatics setting. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to safety, inclusivity, and fun while fostering personal growth in young campers. Join us this summer to make a difference — where every day is an opportunity for adventure!

· Must be available for a Training on June 13, 2026, from 9am-2pm at 431 Pennington Ave Trenton.

· There will be additional required trainings as well.

· Competitive salary based on Education and experience.

Benefits:

· Flexible work schedule.

· Work in one or more positions for a few hours a week or full time.

· Membership based on employment status.

· Competitive salary.

· Full or Part Time Discounts on a variety of child care and camp programs.

· Staff development, trainings and mentorship opportunities.

How to Apply:

If you would like to be a member of our dynamic team, please complete our online application and submit your résumé and a thoughtful cover letter that explains your interest in the role and our organization.

If you are a current YMCA employee, please submit your application through Indeed and notify HR of your interest via HR@capitalareaymca.org.

Background check, CARI and Fingerprinting must be completed within 10 days of offer.

We understand and mutually accept the above position description represents our agreement as to the job to be performed.

Requirements

· Must be able to work the full 8 weeks of camp.

· Must be at least 21 years of age.

· Standard teaching certificate or appropriate eligibility required; Bachelors’ degree in education preferred but will accept other majors.

· Demonstrates leadership abilities.

· Previous experience working with children preferred.

· Ability to communicate with campers and deal effectively with inappropriate behavior.

· Must be energetic, fun and enjoy working with kids.

· Must work outdoors at times and also on pool days.

· Must represent the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, responsibility and respect.

· Experience in one or more of the following areas is a plus: songs/music, skits, sports, aquatics, recreational games, etc.

· Previous experience with diverse populations preferred.

· Preferred CPR/First Aid.

ADDITIONAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

· Ability to plan, lead and participate in a range of activities in a variety of outdoor/indoor settings including working and walking in extreme heat conditions.

· Must be able to get in the pool.

· Able to lift at least 25lbs and climb a flight of stairs.

· Background check must be completed within 10 days of offer.

Pay: From $16.00 per hour

Work Location: In person

Capital Area YMCA

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