Head Lifeguard

Position Summary

The Salvation Army Northwoods Camp in Finlayson, MN, is “doing the most good” by providing summer camp opportunities to hundreds of youth from Salvation Army programs across Minnesota and North Dakota. The camp offers youth a safe, fun environment to develop physically, socially, and spiritually while participating in various activities, including swimming, fishing, boating, archery, music, and arts and crafts.

The Head Lifeguard ensures the safe operation of pool and waterfront activities, guides and supports other lifeguards, monitors camper safety, and assists in planning aquatic programs. This role includes guiding campers (ages 6 to 17), participating in camp activities, building positive relationships, and providing spiritual support through devotions and prayers. The position requires on-site residence throughout the temporary summer employment.

$400 stipend per week, 40 hours per week 

60402 Elbow Lake Rd, Finlayson, MN 55735

Please note that this is a seasonal and temporary summer position from June 2027 to July 2027.

Essential Functions (approximate time spent)

• Aquatic Supervision (30%): Oversee the pool and waterfront areas during all activities, ensuring proper lifeguard coverage and a safe environment.
• Lifeguard Support (20%): Guide and support other lifeguards, ensuring adherence to policies and procedures. In coordination with management assist with scheduling and assignments.
• Aquatic Program Planning (10%): Collaborate with camp leadership to plan and implement engaging pool and waterfront activities.
• Safety and Monitoring (10%): Monitor campers and program areas to ensure the health and safety of all.
• Camper Guidance (10%): Provide guidance and positive reinforcement and assist camp leadership in holding campers accountable to follow rules and meet expectations.
• Program Participation (10%): Actively participate in all assigned camp programs and activities, providing support as needed.
• Relationship Building (5%): Develop and maintain positive rapport with campers and colleagues, teaching and modeling positive relational skills to campers.
• Spiritual Guidance (5%): Attend spiritual activities and facilitate nightly devotions and prayers with assigned campers.

Education and Experience

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Waterfront Lifeguard certification required.
• A High School diploma or equivalent is strongly preferred.
• Previous experience working with children preferred.
• Previous experience with various waterfront activities preferred.
• Lifeguard instructor certification preferred.
• Must have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and be willing to participate in religious activities.
• Must pass background checks.

Competencies

• Flexible interpersonal and communication skills.
• Self-starter with good attention to detail and initiative.
• Works with integrity, valuing honesty and diligence.

Working Conditions

• Must be able to attend staff orientation week.
• Room and Board provided in addition to a biweekly stipend. Required to live on-site at Northwoods camp during the summer.
• Position is seasonal, approximately mid-June through July, including nights and weekends.
• Perform all physical aspects of the position, including being mobile, bending, and reaching.
• Must be able to lift 25 pounds occasionally.
• Must be able to fully participate in activities and events (outdoors and indoors).
• Camp environment; not eligible for a remote-friendly work environment.
• Must be able to communicate clearly with campers and colleagues. 

Supervisory Responsibilities

None.                                                                                                                                  

Travel Requirements

None.

Other Duties                                                                                                                    

All employees recognize that The Salvation Army is a church and agree to support its religious mission as employees.

This job description is not all-inclusive.  It is intended to identify the essential functions of the position.  The supervisor may assign other duties, responsibilities, and tasks.

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its Mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

The Salvation Army is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates who are back-to-work, US Veterans, people with disabilities, people who have been impacted by the justice system, and/or people without a college degree are encouraged to apply.