School Programs Group Leader

Group Leader In 1887, John Ames Mitchell, editor of Life magazine, raised $800 to send 266 children from New York City to the Life Fresh Air Farm in Branchville, Connecticut. Since that first summer, thousands of children and teens have participated in life-changing experiences at our nature-based summer camp and after-school programs in New York and New Jersey. We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to play, learn, and grow at camp. Trail Blazers is committed to creating diverse, equitable, and inclusive spaces where all children, families, and staff are valued, included, and empowered. Responsible to: Site Director and/or Team Supervisor Supervises: n/a This is a part-time, nonexempt, seasonal, hourly position. Summary of Position Group Leaders are responsible for direct oversight of their camper group within our After School program. They facilitate engaging, hands-on programs in an environment of kindness and support. Along with implementing structured environmental science projects and activities, they participate along with their campers in songs and active games, and create safe spaces for campers to engage in unstructured play. Group Leaders may be placed with a single group or may float between two or more groups. Essential Functions Facilitate hands-on workshops and activities for groups of 10 elementary school campers Actively participate in songs, games, and activities with camper group(s) Support campers’ social and emotional growth through daily goal setting, reflections, and coaching Promote positive group dynamics through activities, play, and one-on-one connections with campers Be receptive to ongoing feedback and coaching from Team Supervisors and/or Directors Adhere to health and safety codes and respond effectively to urgent safety concerns Perform other duties as assigned Job Specifications 18+ years old, with a minimum of 1 year experience working with elementary age youth Monday - Friday availability required Camp and after school experience preferred, but not required Successful completion of all required SACC and DOE background clearance processes, including fingerprinting, medical examination, and TB testing High levels of enthusiasm, kindness, patience, and flexibility Ability to be on your feet for 20 minutes at a time Ability to run, bend, and change directions while moving Ability to see and respond to dangerous situations Ability to safely ascend and descend stairs Willingness to work and play outdoors in all weather, including cold, rain, and snow Willingness to undergo background check requirements 2026-2027 School Program Information Program Dates: Mandatory Leadership Team Staff Training : September 1- September 4, 2026 Mandatory Staff Training: September 8- September 11, 2026 Program Start Date: September 14, 2026 Program End Date : June 18, 2026 Required in-season training will take place throughout the school year. Please see our full 2026-2027 School Programs Schedule here. Days and Hours: Full Monday-Friday availability from 1:30 PM-6:00 PM is required. Location: Programs are held on-site at designated school locations in Brooklyn. Our current school program locations include:

PS 118

PS 130 (Tuesdays only)

PS 241

PS 316

PS 399

PS 456

Click here for a map of our school sites. Please note: Site placement is determined based on program needs and staffing requirements at each location. Trail Blazers is an EEO employer. Applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, religion, color, sex, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy, age, national origin, ancestry, physical/mental disability, medical condition, military/veteran status, genetic information, marital status, ethnicity, alienage or any other protected classification, in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. By completing this application, you are seeking to join a team of hardworking professionals dedicated to consistently delivering outstanding programs and services to our campers and families. Applicants requiring accommodation to complete the application and/or interview process should contact us at jobs @trailblazers.org. #J-18808-Ljbffr Trail Blazers