School Programs Group Leader

Job Description

Job Description

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.

Group Leader

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.

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