Assistant Director, Fresh Air Camps

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR
Fresh Air Camps | Hudson Valley, NY | June 5, 2025-August 16, 2025

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 an Assistant Director:

Assistant Directors help in the overall management of camp by directing the day-to-day operations of camp, supervising staff, coordinating camp schedules, and assisting with administrative work. This position is for applicants who have prior experience working at a camp and are looking for an opportunity to learn more about the inner workings of a camp program.

The Assistant Director reports to the Camp Director.

What You’ll Do:

• Assume the duties and responsibilities of the Camp Director during his/her absence.
• Assist the Camp Director in planning and carrying out staff orientation and in-service staff training.
• Explain and enforce the policies, traditions, and rules of the camp.
• Manage interpersonal and operational conflicts amongst campers, counselors, and other camp community members.
• Assume responsibility for the safety and well-being of campers.
• Directly supervise administrative staff, which includes providing daily guidance and support and evaluating them throughout the summer.
• Assist in the evaluation and record keeping of staff and campers.
• Oversee vehicle performance checks and daily usage logs.
• Oversee the ordering and control of general camp equipment and supplies.
• Supervise the Dining Hall area and maintain open communication with the Chef Manager.
• Coordinate with the Program Director on matters that are of mutual responsibility.
• Address stressful situations appropriately in a fast-paced, interactive environment.
• Understand that campers come first, and decisions should be made in the best interest of the campers.
• Be an active member of the camp community by participating in camp programming including camp-wide events, overnights, hikes, swimming, activities, and village meetings. At times, lifting heavy objects may be necessary.
• Demonstrate a caring, supportive, and professional demeanor, including avoiding fraternizing with general staff while on/off duty.
• Strive to work cooperatively with fellow staff to achieve the goals of the program.
• Invest time with campers and staff to meet their needs, challenge their capabilities, and serve as a role model during their time at camp.
• Understand that the position involves living in cabins with little to no privacy and eating all meals with campers in a large, noisy dining room. Time off during each encampment will be arranged by a supervisor.
• Assume responsibility for using and caring for camp equipment and facilities.
• Be familiar with emergency procedures and follow them when necessary.
• Additional responsibilities as needed and assigned.

What We’re Looking For:

• Must be at least 18 years old by the start of camp.
• 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. Prior supervisory experience is required.
• Must be able to supervise in a fair and diplomatic manner.
• Passionate about working with children.
• Interested in working and living in the outdoors for the summer.
• Emotionally mature with a willingness to work as a team player.
• Flexible and willing to accept challenges and step outside comfort zone.
• Able to maintain a positive attitude.
• Driver’s license preferred.
• Available for the entire duration of the summer program.

Compensation & Perks:

• Compensation for this position is $3,800 - $4,800 for the summer season, 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.

Ready to Join Us?

To apply, please submit an Assistant Director 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.

Diversity & Inclusion Statement
The Fresh Air Fund is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer committed to inclusive hiring and fostering a diverse staff. We strongly encourage candidates of all identities, experiences, orientations, and communities to apply.