[2026] Program Specialist, Fresh Air Camps

[2026] Program Specialist, Fresh Air Camps PROGRAM SPECIALIST Fresh Air Camps | Hudson Valley, NY | June 17– August 15, 2026 Discover Fresh Air Camps Since 1877, Fresh Air Fund Camps have offered transformative summer programs and year‑round leadership opportunities. Our six residential camps are located in the beautiful Hudson Valley, providing a natural setting for exploration and growth. Each camp offers unique programming tailored to different age groups and interests, from outdoor adventure to arts and sciences. Life as a Program Specialist Program Specialists deliver high‑quality programming and ensure a safe, engaging camp experience. Each specialist leads a specific activity area, developing lesson plans and teaching four to six one‑hour periods daily. They supervise, instruct, encourage campers, and foster skill development, creativity, and teamwork. When not teaching or during prep, they serve as General Counselors in an assigned village, living with campers and overseeing safety, well‑being, and positive group dynamics. This position requires living onsite at camp from June 17 to August 15, 2026. Compensation is $2,600 for the summer. Shared housing and meals are provided. Program Specialists report to the Director of Specialists. What You’ll Do Plan and teach four to six one‑hour classes daily, ensuring lessons are engaging, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate inline with FAF curriculum. Provide supervision and guidance to campers during activities, promoting participation, teamwork, and skill growth. Supervise and collaborate with staff assigned to the activity area. Maintain program equipment and supplies; may involve lifting and moving materials. Prepare and submit lesson plans, supply requests, inventories, and other reports as requested by the Director of Specialists. Serve as a General Counselor during non‑teaching or prep periods, living in cabins with campers and co‑counselors. Provide 24‑hour supervision, leadership, and care to campers, including activity transitions, cabin time, meals, and behavior management. Foster a supportive, inclusive environment where all campers feel valued and safe. Prioritize camper needs when making decisions and uphold a camper‑first philosophy. Participate actively in the camp community – campfires, overnights, hikes, swimming, village meetings. Some lifting or physical activity may be required. Communicate, model, and uphold camp policies, traditions, and community standards. Ensure the safety, supervision, and well‑being of all campers at all times. Demonstrate professionalism and approachability, maintaining healthy boundaries. Serve as a role model for campers and staff by showing enthusiasm, empathy, and commitment to camp values. Live and work in a communal camp environment – shared cabins, limited privacy, group dining. Time off during each session will be scheduled by the supervisor. Care for and responsibly use camp facilities, property, and equipment. Follow all emergency and safety procedures. Perform other duties as assigned to support the success of the camp community. What We’re Looking For At least 18 years old by the start of camp. At least two years of college or equivalent is preferred. Minimum of one year’s experience working with children. One year of teaching experience in a specialty area is highly preferred. Interested in working and living outdoors for the summer. Emotionally mature, willing to work as a team player with a positive attitude. Flexible and willing to accept challenges and step outside one’s comfort zone. Available for the entire duration of the summer program. Compensation & Benefits Compensation: $2,600 for the summer. All meals and housing provided. Opportunities to gain leadership, communication, and teamwork experience. As part of our commitment to a safe workplace, all camp staff must meet applicable vaccination requirements in accordance with federal, state, and local laws, and be fully vaccinated against polio, MMR, Tdap, varicella (and Hepatitis B for health care staff). Proof of vaccination or an approved exemption is required for employment. The Fresh Air Fund is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to inclusive hiring, and dedicated to diversity in its work and staff. We strongly encourage candidates of all identities to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr