Work With Us

TITLE: Water Safety Staff
LOCATION: Sliding Rock
REPORTS TO: Sliding Rock Operations Manager
JOB TYPE: Seasonal, May through Labor Day
SCHEDULE: Up to 40 hours per week, working weekends and holidays as needed.
COMPENSATION: $18.50/hour, plus end-of-season bonus (when full season is completed) and paid sick leave

POSITION SUMMARY

This position plays a critical role in ensuring guest safety at Sliding Rock, one of North Carolina's most iconic natural attractions in Pisgah National Forest. Water Staff monitor designated areas, respond to emergencies, enforce safety rules, and provide exceptional customer service to visitors. This position requires physical fitness, strong swimming ability, and the ability to remain calm and decisive during emergency situations. This seasonal position is essential to the success of Sliding Rock operations.

I. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position.

• Monitor designated areas throughout the day, rotating through assigned stations as directed

• Proactively educate guests about safety hazards and proper use of the natural slide

• Enforce safety rules and regulations per U.S. Forest Service guidelines in a friendly, respectful manner

• Respond immediately to emergency medical events and assist struggling swimmers

• Intervene when guests are engaging in unsafe behavior or violating rules

• Assist with restroom cleaning and maintenance throughout shifts

• Assure assigned areas are maintained in clean and presentable condition for guests

• Report maintenance needs or safety concerns to supervisors promptly

• Communicate effectively with team members about incidents, concerns, and guest needs

• Maintain professional appearance and positive attitude even during peak crowds and challenging situations

• Work cooperatively with Supervisors, Water/Gatehouse staff, and Operations Manager

• Step in to support other operational areas as needed during high-volume periods

• Adhere to all safety rules and regulations as a representative of Naventure •

• Other related duties as assigned

II. QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS:

Required:

• Must possess current Lifeguard certification by start date

• Ability to swim and perform water rescues

• Physical ability to stand, walk, and work outdoors for extended periods in varying weather conditions

• Must commit to full season (Memorial Day through Labor Day) to be eligible for end-of-season bonus

• Must attend mandatory training dates:

  • Friday May 8, 6pm-9:30pm

  • Saturday May 9, 8am-5pm

  • Sunday May 10, 8am-5pm

  • Saturday May 16, 9am-5pm

  • Sunday May17, 9am-5pm

Preferred:

• Previous experience in outdoor recreation or aquatics

• Strong communication and customer service skills

• Proven ability to remain calm and make quick decisions in emergency situations

III. WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Outdoor Work: The role involves working outdoors in all weather conditions in a high-volume natural recreation area for extended periods of time.

• Physical Demands: The role requires physical stamina and the ability to work on your feet for extended periods. Must be able to walk on uneven surfaces including rock, mud, leaves and wet surfaces, as well as bend, stoop, and lift as needed. Comfort working in and around water is essential.

• Work Hours/Schedule: Rotating shifts including weekends and holidays. Peak season can mean managing large crowds during hot summer days. Other duties and/or alternate schedules may be assigned depending on operational need.

WHY JOIN OUR TEAM?

• Be part of preserving and sharing one of North Carolina's most beloved natural attractions

• Gain valuable experience in outdoor recreation management and emergency response

• Work alongside a dedicated team committed to guest safety and exceptional experiences

• Build transferable skills in safety management, customer service, and crisis response

• Receive CPR and Wilderness First Aid certification (provided during training)

• End-of-season bonus rewards your full-season commitment

APPLICATION PROCESS:

Ready to spend your summer at Sliding Rock? We'd love to hear from you! Please submit your application with:

• Current resume

• Proof of Lifeguard certification (or timeline for obtaining certification prior to start date)

• Two references from previous employers or supervisors

PLEASE NOTE: Applications will be reviewed starting in mid-March, with interviews scheduled for early April.