Summer Camp: Assistant Canoe Instructor

Staff / Full-Time
Annual Salary Range: $4,600 – $5,500

Concord Academy, Concord, MA

Concord Academy Summer Camp is seeking a patient, energetic, and safety-conscious individual to assist the lead canoe instructor in leading canoeing activities for campers ages 3-15. This role helps facilitate on-water activities, ensures adherence to safety protocols, and contributes to a positive and inclusive camp environment. Candidate must be available to work the majority of our 8-week season. This is a full-time seasonal position.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Experience working with children in either an educational or recreational setting
  • Strong canoeing/paddling skills and confidence in teaching beginners
  • Must be Lifeguard Certified (or willing to obtain prior to camp start date)
  • Must complete Paddlesports Safety Online Course (free 20-minute online certification course)
  • Desire and ability to work with children and adults in a busy camp setting
  • Ability to accept guidance and supervision
  • Good character, integrity and adaptability
  • Strong leadership and organizational skills
  • Enthusiasm, patience, self-control and sense of humor
  • Must pass a criminal background check
  • Responsible to: Lead Canoe Instructor, Specialist Unit Leader, Director & Assistant Director of Summer Programs

Specific Responsibilities:

  • Lead safe and engaging canoeing sessions for campers in age-appropriate groupings (3-5, 6-9, 10-15)
  • Be punctual and prepared for your daily activities
  • Assist with supervision of campers during canoe trips
  • Support campers in developing intermediate paddling skills, water safety awareness, and teamwork
  • Ensure a safe and engaging learning environment by supervising children and maintaining proper safety protocols
  • Ensure proper use, maintenance, and storage of canoes, paddles, life jackets, and related equipment
  • Conduct safety checks of equipment and waterfront areas before and after activities
  • Provide clear instruction on paddling, balance, entry/exit, and water safety basics
  • Provide encouragement and positive behavior support to campers
  • Collaborate with staff to assist younger campers with personal floatation devices and boat entry
  • Prepare and maintain equipment daily, report damages or safety concerns
  • Enforce waterfront safety rules and emergency procedures at all times
  • Communicate with campers and staff in a positive and professional manner
  • Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and camp-wide events

Essential Functions:

  • Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental and other hazards
  • Occasional lifting, bending, and climbing stairs
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 40-50 lbs.
  • Ability to work comfortably in outdoor conditions, including rain, heat and humidity

Job Requirements:

  • Available 8:00am-4:15pm on Mondays and 8:15am-4:15pm, Tuesday – Friday
  • Must hold a current Lifeguard Certification
  • Some high-level activity which may include running, dancing, swimming, and jumping
  • Occasional lifting, bending, and climbing stairs
  • Frequent talking, listening, walking, sitting, and standing
  • Submit all required paperwork on time.
  • Attend all pre-camp trainings and orientation
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Dates of Employment:

  • Staff Training: June 15 – 18 and June 20, 2026
  • Summer Camp: June 22 – August 14, 2026
  • Camp Clean-up: August 15, 2026
  • Salary Range: $4,600 – $5,500; based on experience

Concord Academy

Concord, MA
High School
Boarding, Day
All Gender