[2026] Junior Camp Staff Coordinator , Fresh Air Camps

JUNIOR CAMP STAFF COORDINATOR  
Fresh Air Camps | Hudson Valley, NY | June 11 – August 15, 2026 

About Fresh Air Camps

Since 1877, Fresh Air Fund Camps have opened new doors for over 1.8 million children, offering transformative summer programs and year-round leadership opportunities. Our six residential camps are located in the beautiful Hudson Valley, offering a stunning natural setting for exploration and growth. Each camp provides unique programming tailored to different age groups and interests, from outdoor adventure to arts and sciences, creating an enriching environment for both campers and staff. Learn more about Fresh Air Camps: www.freshair.org/learn-about-our-camps/ 

Life as a Junior Camp Staff Coordinator  

The Junior Camp Staff Coordinator plays a key role in developing and supporting the Junior Camp Staff (JCS) Program across 5 camps.  The JCS Program is the second year of our leadership training pathway and serves as a bridge between the Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program and future camp employment. 

The Coordinator oversees the Junior Camp Staff schedule, ensuring a balance of meaningful work assignments, leadership development opportunities, coaching, and rest time. This position focuses on fostering growth, professionalism, and teamwork among Junior Camp Staff, age 17, as they expand their group management, behavior management, and program facilitation skills. Through hands-on mentorship and intentional training, the Coordinator helps prepare Junior Camp Staff to become successful future counselors or program specialists.  

This position requires living onsite at camp from June 11 to August 15, 2026, semi-private adult housing and meals provided. Compensation for this role is $3,000 to $3,300 for the summer.   

The Junior Camp Staff Coordinator reports to the Assistant Director, or Camp Director or Senior Director of Camping. 

What You’ll Do:  

• Supervise, coach, and support the development and overall experience of all Junior Camp Staff. 
• Plan and implement a leadership and skill development curriculum tailed to the needs of the Junior Camp Staff.   
• Document the program curriculum and submit at the end of the summer. 
• Lead weekly group coaching and development sessions focused on leadership, communication, and camper care.   
• Conduct regular one-on-one check-ins with Junior Camp Staff and facilitate nightly reflection sessions. 
• Have a presence at all 5 camps to support all JCS.  
• Collaborate daily with members of the summer leadership team for feedback and address any concerns promptly and productively.   
• Complete midsummer and end-of-summer evaluations for each Junior Camp Staff.   
• Plan and facilitate team-building activities that enhance the community and provide exposure to different aspects of camp.  
• Guide Junior Camp Staff during their time off, setting expectations and checking in on their well-being and experience.   
• Support Junior Camp Staff in managing camper behavior, navigating conflict, and modeling positive leadership and teamwork. 
• Prioritize camper needs when making decisions and uphold a camper-first philosophy. 
• Participate actively in the camp community — including campfires, overnights, hikes, swimming, and 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, and avoiding fraternization with general staff while on/off duty. 
• 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 — including shared cabins, limited privacy, and group dining. Time off during each session will be scheduled by the supervisor. 
• Care for and responsibly use camp facilities, property, and equipment. 
• Be familiar with and follow all emergency and safety procedures. 
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the success of the camp community. 

What We’re Looking For: 

• Must be at least 18 years old.   
• At least three years of college or equivalent is preferred. College graduates are strongly preferred.   
• Should have extensive experience as a general counselor or staff member in a residential camp setting. Some administrative and/or supervisory experience is preferred.  
• Prior experience working with children is required. Staff must be passionate about working with children.   
• Must be able to supervise in a fair and diplomatic manner.    
• Interested in working and living in the outdoors for the summer.   
• Emotionally mature with a willingness to work as a team player and to maintain a positive attitude.   
• Flexible and willing to accept challenges and step outside the comfort zone.    
• Available for the entire duration of the summer program.  

As part of our commitment to maintaining a safe and healthy workplace and to protecting the participants we serve, The Fresh Air Fund requires all camp staff to meet applicable vaccination requirements in accordance with federal, state, and local laws, and to be fully vaccinated against polio and MMR. As new public health issues arise, The Fresh Air Fund may require additional vaccinations. Proof of vaccination or an approved exemption will be required as a condition of employment. 

Compensation & Perks: 

• Compensation for this position is $3,000 – $3,300 for the summer, commensurate with experience 
• All meals and housing provided during camp. 
• The opportunity to gain valuable experiences in leadership, communication, and teamwork that will stand out on any resume. 

Application Instructions  

To apply, please submit a Junior Camp Staff Coordinator application. We are hiring on a rolling basis and encourage interested applicants to apply as early as possible. No calls or recruiters, please.   

The Fresh Air Fund is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to inclusive hiring, and dedicated to diversity in its work and on its staff. We strongly encourage candidates of all identities, experiences, orientations, and communities to apply.