Lee County Parks & Rec now hiring counselors, lifeguards for summer camps
Lee County Parks & Recreation is hiring about 40 summer camp counselors and 20 lifeguards for temporary positions.
These positions will be available from June 14 to July 29 at various Lee County pools and recreation centers. Camp counselors must have experience working with youth ages 6 to 15 and lifeguards must have current certification. Starting pay is $9.25 an hour.
At the North Fort Myers Recreation Center, about six counselors will be needed for the traditional camp, with two more needed for the teen camp.
Turnover tends to be high. However, according to Colleen Via, supervisor at the rec center, she expects four of the counselors from last year to return, one of which will be head counselor under the direction of James Pittro.
“We’ve had more than 35 people apply countywide. We need people with at least a high school diploma and at least two summers of working with children,” Via said. “A lot of teachers come looking for work and they’re a perfect applicant. We also take people who work at churches, youth groups and day cares.”
“When candidates put in their resumes and fill out the application, they do ask what preference you have, and most of them get what they want,” said Tiffany Vance, who will run the teen camp. “A lot of people from Estero applied, so they wanted to go there, but everyone can’t.”
Camp counselors will assist with leading youth groups in various activities, entertainment and education programs. Lifeguards are responsible for patrolling the pool to protect swimmers and maintain order. Both jobs will be carefully screened.
“You really have to show you have experience to take on this job. You have these kids all day, and it’s a hard job. But it can be very satisfying,” Vance said.
Those hired will also perform other duties as assigned. Work could involve odd and irregular work schedules that include weekends and holidays. Employees will have extensive contact with children and the public.
The breakdown of counselors is one for every 15 kids. Vance said since North isn’t the biggest camp, the teen camp maxes out at 40, with the traditional limit being 90.
The campers will take two or three large field trips per year (The Naples Zoo, Sun & Fun Lagoon and, tentatively, The Shell Factory), as well as smaller trips to the pool, roller rink or other places.
To apply and view the minimum qualifications for these positions please visit www.leegov.com or for more information, please call Lee County Parks & Recreation at 239-533-7275.
“We need to get the word out to get these people to apply for these jobs. Give it a go,” Via said.