Waterfront Assistant; Bear Creek Aquatic Camp

About the camp

Bear Creek Aquatic Camp is a traditional overnight summer camp owned and operated by Girl Scouts of Kentuckiana. Located south of Benton, Kentucky, this 183-acre camp has 2.3 miles of shoreline on beautiful Kentucky Lake. Bear Creek offers campers a variety of aquatic sports including sailing, kayaking, canoeing, stand‑up paddle boarding, windsurfing, and swimming. Our program hosts Girl Scouts entering grades 4 through 12 with up to 70 campers per session.

Programs are run by paid camp staff and Girl Scout volunteers.

We are seeking an enthusiastic Waterfront Assistant to provide the ultimate summer camp experience for our campers by life guarding at our beach waterfront on Kentucky Lake. The Waterfront Assistant will teach swimming lessons and games at specified times and provide daily supervision of campers outside of the waterfront area. The ideal candidate will be invested in developing a camp culture that nourishes the health, personal growth, and skill‑development of campers, staff, and volunteers.

As a member of the camp staff, you will play a vital role in creating a fun and safe environment for campers while enjoying the perks of room, board, and most meals during the camp season. With many traditional camp amenities provided on‑site, you’ll immerse yourself in the camp experience, building lasting connections with both campers and fellow staff. This position offers a unique opportunity to foster personal growth while enjoying a vibrant community atmosphere.

The salary for the Waterfront Assistant (Bear Creek Aquatic Camp) position is $2,633 for the entire summer season.

• Responsible for overall safety of campers, and staff using swimming equipment.
• Lifeguard for swimming activities in accordance with ACA and American Red Cross guidelines.
• Instruct and enforce waterfront safety measures for every person in camp in accordance with GSUSA Safety Activity Checkpoints and American Camp Association accreditation standards.
• Communicate to provide clear, necessary instruction to participants of all ages and skill levels.
• Perform daily safety checks and checks of the health of equipment, facilities, and programs; work with Waterfront Director to communicate maintenance needs.
• Evaluate aquatic abilities for every person in camp by administering a swim proficiency test.
• Participate in emergency drills.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Non‑traditional and long work hours are expected.
• The Waterfront Assistant may be asked to sleep in a unit with other staff members separate (but near) campers with restrooms a short walk away.
• Daily exposure to various weather conditions, plants, and animals.
• Walk/hike several miles daily, at various grades, elevations, and on uneven terrain.
• Daily swimming, boating, and life guarding in lake water.

• Must be First Aid, CPR & AED, Youth Mental Health Certified.
• Must be certified in Life Guarding before staff training;
  Waterfront module preferred.
• Other certifications and outdoor or boating skills/knowledge are a plus.
• High school graduate or equivalent.

• Highly preferred: experience life guarding.

• 18+ years of age.
• Meet state, federal, and ACA requirements for summer camp employment.
• Strong communication, written, and public speaking skills.
• Adaptable and flexible within a fast‑paced working environment.
• Possess mental and physical endurance required to maintain constant supervision of campers.
• Provide exemplary customer service.
• Identify and respond to environmental and other hazards.
• Swimming proficiency and comfort in all types of water conditions.

• Effectively address and resolve conflicts with individuals in a professional and respectful manner.
• Must be completed and be certified in American Red Cross Waterfront Life guarding, First Aid, CPR, & AED course prior to start of the first camp session.
• Complete a background check and provide other forms and details.
• Promote a culture of open communication and mutual respect.

• Ensure diversity and pluralism are embraced and incorporated into the work of the council.
• Support the Girl Scout mission, vision, and values of Girl Scouts of Kentuckiana and live by the Girl Scout Promise and Law.
• Complete a background check.

• Complete a Health History and physical exam prior to camp.
• Effectively manage financial and physical resources.
• Exhibit effective communication skills and provide exemplary customer service to both internal and external customers.
• Report incidents of abuse or potential abuse involving campers to the appropriate authorities.