
The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties is seeking a Program Specialist to join our team.
The YMCA focuses on empowering people in all forms, by improving health and well-being and inspiring action in and across our neighborhoods. This position supports the work of the Y, a leading non-profit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
As the Lifeguard Specialist, you will be responsible for performing Lifeguard duties while creating a safe and positive atmosphere that welcomes and respects all individuals. If hired for this position, you will also be responsible for promoting safety by maintain safe swimming conditions in the pool, deck and surrounding areas in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures. The ideal candidate will have a current YMCA or Red Cross Lifeguard certification or be willing to obtain one prior to the start of camp, and be comfortable swimming and lifeguarding on a natural lake.
Key Responsibilities:
Qualifications:
Wage: $17.66 to $18.66 per hour, depending on qualifications
Dates of Employment: June 15th - August 28th, 2026
Location: YMCA Camp Helena, Port Orchard, WA
Benefits:
Ignite your Passion, Live the Y Cause, and Join our Team! To apply visit our website at www.ymcapkc.org
The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties is committed to diversity and inclusion throughout our organization and is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Women/Minority/Veteran/Disabled
Qualifications
JOB DESCRIPTION
Waterfront Specialist
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Reports to: Summer Camp Director Location: Camp Seymour
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Waterfront Specialist actively supervises and maintains safe, enjoyable, age-appropriate waterfront programs and events. Supervises boating instructors and lifeguards. Provides progressive instruction in waterfront activities. Works with leadership staff and program director to organize and implement overall camp program. Provides a quality experience to campers and families focused on YMCA core values: honesty, respect, responsibility, and caring. Represents the YMCA and self in a professional manner of safety and fun.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Planning and Program Delivery:
* Plan, organize, and facilitate all waterfront programming for Day Camp, Overnight Camp and visiting groups.
* Monitor waterfront equipment and supplies; repair and resupply as necessary.
* Work with leadership staff & all staff to coordinate and implement overall camp program.
* Serve as a cabin counselor when coverage is needed.
Coach:
* Maintain weekly observations on staff performance; give staff positive and constructive feedback; communicate significant observations to direct supervisors.
Financial Development and Philanthropy:
* Meet performance measurement by telling the Y story and raising charitable dollars to fulfill our mission.
* Assist staff leadership team in reaching campaign goals through recruiting campaigners, making personal asks and supporting branch events.
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
* Regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms.
* Occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
* Must frequently lift or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift or move a higher amount.
* Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
* Occasionally may need to plan and participate in programming outdoors.
QUALIFICATIONS:
* A commitment to valuing and promoting diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.
* Minimum 21 years of age.
* One season or more of camp experience required.
* Preferred: Experience in teaching boating and/or two years of personal boating experience.
* Positive attitude and previous experience with diverse populations.
* Knowledge and skills in program activities and related equipment set-up, and the ability to instruct participants in age appropriate techniques.
* Required: Current Small Craft Safety Certification or YMCA Lifeguard/Red Cross Lifeguard certification (or the ability to obtain these certifications during staff training).
* Required: Washington State Boaters' License (must be obtained by the start of staff training).
* CPR, First Aid, AED certifications.
* Able and willing to complete online Child Abuse Prevention training on first day, and other online and in-person training as required.
This job description indicates in general the nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills, abilities and other essential functions (as covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act) expected. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice. This job description does not constitute a contract of employment and the YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties may exercise its employment-at-will rights at any time.
I understand the requirements, essential functions, and job duties of this position.

The Y is a cause-driven organization focused on three key areas: youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. We believe a strong community can only be achieved when we invest in our kids, our health, and our neighbors.
Our programs, services, and initiatives enable youth to realize their potential, offer families ways to have fun together, empower people to be healthier in spirit, mind and body, welcome and embrace newcomers and help foster social responsibility.