Position Summary

The Day Camp Aquatics Director oversees the safety, instruction, and supervision of all aquatic programs at camp. This position leads the waterfront staff team, manages pool operations, and ensures compliance with all Girl Scouts of Connecticut (GSofCT), American Camp Association (ACA), State of Connecticut, and Safety Activity Checkpoints regulations. The Aquatics Director creates a positive, safety-first aquatic environment that encourages campers to build confidence and enjoy water activities in a supportive, inclusive setting.

Essential Responsibilities

Leadership & Supervision

• Provide leadership and direction for all aquatic programming, including swim guidance, free swim, and special aquatic events.
• Supervise, train, and evaluate lifeguards and aquatic staff, ensuring proper rotation, attentiveness, and adherence to safety procedures.
• Schedule staff to ensure proper supervision ratios during all aquatic activities.
• Conduct daily staff check-ins, performance coaching, and end-of-season evaluations.
• Foster a supportive team culture focused on communication, safety, and camper well-being.

Program Management

• Develop and implement age-appropriate aquatic programs that build skills and confidence in swimmers of all abilities.
• Coordinate the aquatics schedule in collaboration with the Camp Director and Program Director to ensure balanced programming.
• Maintain accurate records of swim assessments, guidance plans, and attendance.
• Assist with camp wide events and all-camp activities as needed.

Health, Safety, and Compliance

• Ensure all aquatics operations comply with state regulations, ACA standards, GSofCT policies, and Safety Activity Checkpoints.
• Conduct daily facility inspections to verify pool safety, equipment readiness, and water quality.
• Maintain appropriate documentation, including temperature, chlorine, and pH logs.
• Lead and participate in emergency drills and ensure all staff understand emergency action plans.
• Maintain communication with the Camp Director and Director of First Aid regarding camper or staff health concerns.
• Ensure all lifeguards are certified and up to date in Lifeguarding, CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer, and First Aid.

Facility & Equipment Management

• Oversee proper use, care, and storage of all aquatics equipment and facilities.
• Coordinate opening and closing of the pool area daily and at the start and end of the camp season.
• Submit maintenance requests promptly and monitor completion.
• Ensure well-stocked first aid kits and safety equipment are available and in good condition.

Training & Communication

• Assist with planning and leading pre-camp and in-service staff training focused on aquatic safety, emergency response, and camper supervision.
• Communicate effectively with staff, campers, and families regarding aquatic activities and expectations.
• Attend administrative and leadership meetings as part of the Camp Leadership Team.
• Participate in daily camp routines such as flag ceremonies, meals, and special events.

Other Duties

• Be present at optional overnights/late nights as applicable.
• Participate in camp opening and closing procedures.
• Perform additional duties assigned by the Camp Director to support overall camp operations.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• High school diploma or equivalent required, bachelor’s degree in recreation, education, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of six weeks of supervisory experience in an aquatic setting.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Proven ability to teach, motivate, and manage aquatic staff and campers.
• Current certifications required:
  • Lifeguard Certification (as applicable to the facility)
  • Lifeguard Management
  • AED/CPR for the Professional Rescuer
  • First Aid
  • Water Safety Instructor preferred
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of the camp leadership team.
• Commitment to the Girl Scout Mission and to delivering safe, inclusive, girl-centered programming.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to swim proficiently and perform lifeguard rescues.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work outdoors for extended periods in variable weather conditions.
• Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to aquatic safety concerns.
• Ability to perform first aid and respond quickly in emergencies.