Zajac Ranch Job Description – Lifeguard (Ranger)
Organizational Overview:
Located on the shores of Stave Lake in Mission, BC, just one hour east of Vancouver, Zajac Ranch is situated on over 40 acres of pristine forested land. During the summer months, Zajac Ranch provides camps for children and young adults with chronic, life threatening and/or debilitating conditions. In the off-season, Zajac Ranch welcomes school groups and private rentals. Revenue raised from site rentals goes to supporting Zajac Ranch summer medical camps.
Reporting to: Program Coordinator
Direct Reports: None
Position Type: Contract, Seasonal
Length of Contract: 2.5 months (June 15, 2026 – September 4, 2026) *some camp session exceptions apply due to private camps
Compensation: $175.00 per day; plus, MANDT Relational and Technical Training & Certification, and meals and accommodation provided during camp sessions.
Number of Positions Available: 2-3
Position Summary:
The Lifeguard Ranger (Activity Specialist) plays a key role in facilitating safe and enjoyable water-based programs at Zajac Ranch, including swimming, canoeing, and kayaking. Working primarily at the lakefront and indoor pool, Lifeguard Rangers ensure the safety of all participants through vigilant supervision, risk management, and adherence to safety standards.
In addition to aquatic duties, Lifeguard Rangers also serve as cabin counsellors, providing supervision, mentorship, and support to campers throughout daily activities, mealtimes, and evening programs.
Key Responsibilities:
Aquatic & Program Duties
- Supervise and facilitate all waterfront and pool activities, ensuring camper and staff safety at all times.
- Maintain vigilance and enforce aquatic safety rules and emergency procedures.
- Lead or assist with canoeing, kayaking, and other water-based programs as assigned.
- Inspect and maintain aquatic equipment and program areas; report issues promptly.
- Create a welcoming, inclusive, and engaging environment where campers can safely build confidence in the water.
- Support non-aquatic programs, camp-wide activities, and evening events when not leading waterfront programming.
- Participate in regular staff meetings and training sessions to ensure program consistency and communication.
Camper Care
- Supervise and support campers to ensure safety, health, and well-being at all times.
- Act as a positive role model by encouraging participation, empathy, and teamwork.
- Support campers with daily routines including meals, hygiene, rest periods, and medication schedules.
- Collaborate with counsellors and leadership staff to foster a safe, inclusive, and engaging cabin environment.
- Use Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (NVCI) techniques and collaborative problem solving to promote camper engagement and de-escalate challenges.
- Provide consistent encouragement and positive reinforcement using the therapeutic recreation model covered during staff training.
Qualifications & Experience:
- Strong leadership, communication, and teamwork skills.
- Experience working with children or youth, preferably in a camp or recreation setting.
- National Lifeguard Service (NLS) certification (required).
- Minimum 1 year of experience working as a lifeguard (preferred).
- Bronze Cross certification (asset).
- Standard First Aid & CPR-C certification (required).
- Minimum 18 years of age (required).
- Ability to pass a Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening (required).
Work Environment:
- Live-in role during camp sessions with weekends off.
- Outdoor, dynamic, and fast-paced setting requiring flexibility and high energy.
- Active participation in both waterfront supervision and general camp activities.
- Joining Zajac Ranch as a Lifeguard Ranger (Activity Specialist) offers the opportunity to develop leadership skills, gain valuable aquatic experience, and make a lasting impact on the lives of children and young adults with medical needs and disabilities — all while working in a supportive and fun camp community.
How to Apply:
Interested parties should submit a resume by following the link below. Only applicants that meet the requirements will be contacted. No phone calls please.
Zajac Ranch for is an equal opportunity employer. If you require accommodation at any point in the application process, please contact us and we will do our best to accommodate your needs. We thank all interested parties, however only those invited for an interview will be contacted.