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 two crucial roles at camp: Jr. Lifeguard and Junior (Jr.) Counselor! The primary responsibilities of a lifeguard are 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.

The Jr. Counselor component of the position focuses on the safety and supervision (in all areas of camp) of what is most important: the campers! Jr. Counselors work alongside the Sr. Counselors and assist in leading camp activities and help set the tone for a positive, inclusive space for everyone to be their true selves 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: http://workday.cornell.edu/. 

Please contact the CCE office at 607-391-2660 with questions. 

POSITION DETAILS:

This position is a full-time exempt position, 100% FTE. The summer salary for this position is $1,500.00 to $2,150.00 commensurate with experience.

Sponsorship for employment visa status is not available for this position.

POSITION INFORMATION:

Required Qualifications:

• Must be at least 17 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 of fun waterfront activities for all campers, staff and volunteers within a physically, emotionally and environmentally safe environment.
• Assist the Waterfront Director in documenting all camper swim levels upon their arrival.
• Supervise all waterfront activities, including but not limited to; swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and non-instructional activities.
• Utilize and enforce a “Buddy Board” system to ensure accountability for all campers and staff at the waterfront.
• Role model, enforce and follow all safety procedures as per the NYS Department of Health and American Camp Association (ACA) regulations for overnight camp.
• Assist the Waterfront Director with maintaining the daily