[2026] Assistant Director, Fresh Air Camps

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR 
Fresh Air Camps | Hudson Valley, NY | June 8 to August 15, 2026 

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: 

The Assistant Director plays a key role in the overall management of camp, helping to ensure smooth day-to-day operations, staff supervision, and a positive camper experience. This position is ideal for individuals with prior camp experience who are ready to deepen their leadership skills and gain insight into the inner workings of a camp program. 

This position requires living onsite at camp from June 8 to August 15, 2026. Semi-private adult housing and meals provided. Compensation for this role is $3,800 to $4,800 for the summer.   

The Assistant Director reports to the Camp Director. 

What You’ll Do: 

• Serve as acting Camp Director in their absence, ensuring all operations continue safely and effectively. 
• Support the Camp Director in planning and leading staff orientation, in-service training, and professional development. 
• Manage interpersonal and operational conflicts amongst campers, staff, promoting positive resolution and teamwork. 
• Supervise administrative staff by providing daily guidance, feedback, and ongoing evaluations throughout the summer. 
• Support staff and camper evaluation processes, including maintaining accurate records and documentation. 
• Oversee vehicle usage, maintenance checks, and transportation logs. 
• Manage inventory, ordering, and control of general camp supplies and equipment. 
• Supervise Dining Hall operations and maintain open communication with the Chef Manager to ensure a smooth meal service. 
• Collaborate closely with the Program Director and other leadership staff to coordinate schedules and ensure quality programming.
• Address challenges calmly and professionally in a fast-paced, community-oriented environment.
• 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 by the start of camp (June 29, 2026). 
• At least three years of college or equivalent is preferred. College graduates are strongly preferred. 
• Extensive experience as a counselor or staff member in a residential camp setting. 
• Prior supervisory or leadership experience required. 
• Ability to lead and supervise with fairness, empathy, and professionalism. 
• Passion for working with children and fostering a positive camp community. 
• Comfortable living and working outdoors in a residential setting. 
• Emotionally mature, flexible, and team-oriented. 
• Positive attitude and willingness to take initiative and adapt to changing circumstances. 
• Valid driver’s license preferred. 
• Available for the full duration of the summer season. 

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 $3,800 - $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.