YMCA Camp Chandler - Waterfront Director Job Description Waterfront DirectorThe Waterfront Director is responsible for overseeing the daily operation, safety, cleanliness, and overall camper experience of Camp Chandler’s waterfront program. Reporting directly to the Camp Director, this position provides leadership and supervision to all waterfront staff, including Lifeguards and Boat Drivers, and ensures that all waterfront activities are conducted safely and in accordance with Camp Chandler and YMCA standards. The Waterfront Director is responsible for maintaining a clean, organized, and safe waterfront environment, coordinating staff coverage, conducting regular in-service trainings, and ensuring that waterfront staff are prepared to respond appropriately to emergencies and daily operational needs. Primary Responsibilities Oversee the daily operation of Camp Chandler’s waterfront and all associated activities. Provide leadership, supervision, and direction to Lifeguards. Develop and maintain appropriate waterfront staff coverage to ensure adequate supervision at all times. Ensure all waterfront activities are operated safely and in accordance with Camp Chandler, YMCA, and applicable lifeguarding and boating standards. Conduct weekly waterfront in-service trainings for Lifeguards. Use in-service trainings to reinforce rescue skills, emergency procedures, communication, surveillance, water safety, and other relevant waterfront skills. Monitor Lifeguard and Boat Driver performance and provide coaching, feedback, and additional training when necessary. Ensure all waterfront staff follow established safety procedures. Maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming waterfront throughout the summer. Establish and oversee daily waterfront cleaning and maintenance procedures. Ensure docks, beaches, waterfront equipment, boats, kayaks, paddleboards, and other water equipment are properly cleaned, stored, and maintained. Conduct regular inspections of waterfront areas and equipment and immediately address or report any safety or maintenance concerns. Ensure all waterfront equipment is used appropriately and report damaged, missing, or unsafe equipment to the Camp Director. Monitor weather and water conditions and communicate with the Camp Director regarding any conditions that may affect waterfront programming. Make appropriate recommendations regarding the modification, postponement, or cancellation of waterfront activities when safety conditions require it. Respond appropriately to emergencies and ensure waterfront staff understand and follow Camp Chandler’s emergency action plans. Work closely with the Camp Director and other program directors to coordinate waterfront programming and staffing needs. Help create a positive, energetic, and safe environment for campers and staff at the waterfront. Ensure waterfront staff maintain appropriate professionalism and serve as positive role models for campers. Communicate regularly with the Camp Director regarding waterfront operations, staffing, safety concerns, equipment needs, and any incidents or issues that arise. Complete additional waterfront, safety, and camp responsibilities as assigned by the Camp Director.
Qualifications Current lifeguarding certification required. Current CPR/AED and First Aid certification required. Previous lifeguarding, waterfront, aquatics, or supervisory experience strongly preferred. Previous experience leading or supervising lifeguards or aquatic staff preferred. Experience conducting or assisting with lifeguard in-service training preferred. Strong understanding of water safety, emergency response procedures, and lifeguarding standards. Strong leadership, communication, organization, and problem-solving skills. Ability to confidently supervise and provide constructive feedback to waterfront staff. Boating experience or relevant boating certification is preferred.
ExpectationsThe Waterfront Director must be able to safely and effectively oversee a busy waterfront environment while maintaining constant attention to camper and staff safety. This position requires the ability to work outdoors for extended periods, communicate clearly with staff and campers, respond calmly and effectively during emergencies, and make sound decisions in changing weather and water conditions. The Waterfront Director must be able to lead and supervise Lifeguards and Boat Drivers, conduct weekly in-service trainings, maintain a clean and organized waterfront, and ensure that all waterfront operations consistently meet Camp Chandler and YMCA safety standards. This individual should serve as a confident and positive role model for waterfront staff and campers while maintaining professionalism, strong communication, and a high standard of accountability throughout the summer.
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