Lifeguard​/Sr. Counselor H Camp Owahta - McGraw, NY

Position: Lifeguard/Sr. Counselor - 4-H Camp Owahta - McGraw, NY
Location: New York

Keep the fun afloat and campers safe at 4-H Camp Owahta! 4-H Camp Owahta, owned and operated by the Cornell Cooperative Extension Association of Cortland County, is a vibrant 128-acre camp in McGraw, NY, complete with cabins, a rustic lodge, a waterfront, sports field and wooded trails. Each summer, the camp serves over 400 youth through its overnight and day camp programs.
This role combines the two crucial roles at camp;
Lifeguard and Senior (Sr.) Counselor! The primary responsibilities of a lifeguard include but are not limited to: supervising all waterfront and swimming activities, assisting in the planning and facilitation of waterfront activities, keeping the waterfront areas and equipment clean and organized, enforcing all Department of Health (DOH), American Camp Association (ACA) and 4-H Camp Owahta safety regulations, policies and upholding the American Red Cross lifeguarding standards.
Senior (Sr.) Counselors are in charge of the most important thing at camp, the campers! All summer long, they build connections, jump into activities with energy and enthusiasm, and serve as positive role models who help make camp a place where everyone feels welcome and included. While keeping the fun going, Sr. Counselors also have safety as their top priority by ensuring campers are always supervised and that all Department of Health (DOH), American Camp Association (ACA), and 4-H Camp Owahta safety regulations, policies, and procedures are followed.

Sr. Counselors provide overnight supervision in camper cabins and help set the tone for a positive camp community where every camper can be their true self and “Tap In To Their Potential.”    This position is responsible for performing all duties outlined in this description, as well as other responsibilities as assigned and deemed appropriate by the Outdoor Recreation Director.# IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR APPLICANTS:# PLEASE READ BEFORE APPLYING## ## All applicants must apply online to be considered for this position.

All applicants must complete an application online, which includes: cover letter, resume and three (3) references.
** All External Applicants** (including applicants currently employed by Cornell Cooperative Extension in Associations other than the Association advertising this career opportunity) must submit his/her application materials via the "APPLY" button located within this job posting.
** All Internal Applicants** (current employees working for the Association advertising this career opportunity) must apply online via his/her Workday account, which may be accessed here: .Please contact the CCE office at  with questions.
** POSITION DETAILS:
** This position is a full-time exempt position, 100% FTE. The summer salary for this position is $2,350.00 to $4,400.00 commensurate with experience.

Sponsorship for employment visa status is not available for this position.
** POSITION INFORMATION:
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* Required Qualifications:

*** Must be 18 years of age.
* Attend and participate in all of staff training;
June 29-July 3, 2026.
* Current Waterfront Lifeguard Certification from a course approved by the NYS Department of Health.
* Current CPR and First Aid certification(s) from courses approved by the NYS Department of Health (will re-certify if necessary).
* Ability to build positive, approachable relationships with youth, parents, and staff.
* Desire, ability and willingness to work and live in a camp community and to reside at 4-H Camp Owahta, McGraw, NY (including overnights) the entire duration of the camp season (July 5-August 14, 2026).
* Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.
* Awareness of and understanding of positive youth development principles.
*
* Preferred Qualifications:

*** Experience as a staff member and/or CIT at an overnight summer camp.
* Interest in working with youth primarily outdoors.
* Receptiveness to guidance, supervision and feedback.
* Ability to effectively teach campers ages 5-16.
* Ability to adapt and remain flexible in dynamic environments.
*
* POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:

**** Job Responsibilities - 95%
** Waterfront Programing and Support
* Assist in the leading and planning of fun waterfront activities for…