[2026] Farm Director, Fresh Air Camps

Hudson Valley, NY
Seasonal
Entry Level

FARM DIRECTOR
Fresh Air Camps | Hudson Valley, NY | June 11 – August 15, 2026 

Since its founding in 1877, The Fresh Air Fund, a not-for-profit youth development organization, has
provided free life-changing summer experiences in the outdoors to more than 1.8 million children from
New York City’s underserved communities. Young people also participate in year-round leadership,
career exploration, and educational programs. For more information, visit www.FreshAir.org.
The Fresh Air Fund also owns and operates the Sharpe Reservation, which houses five of the six Fresh
Air Camps, the Sharpe Reservation Environmental Center, which serves over 18,000 visitors each year.
The Fresh Aid Fund also operates Camp Junior, a camp for young people from the Bronx in Harriman
State Park.

Life as a Farm Director:

The Farm Director plays a key role in the overall management of the farm, helping to ensure smooth day-to-day operations, staff supervision, and a positive camper experience while upholding Fresh Air Fund camps' policies and protocols. The Farm Director will work closely with farmer educators to provide quality agricultural education programming at our model farm in the summer for all camps.
 

This position requires living on-site at camp from June 11 to August 15, 2026. Semi-private adult housing and meals provided. Compensation for this role is $3,300 to $3,800 for the summer.    

The Farm Director reports to the Deputy Director of Sharpe Reservation.  


Responsibilities:

  1. Responsible for the overall implementation and supervision of the Farm and Nutrition Program with Farm staff.
  2. Responsible for orienting the general camp staff to the philosophy of the Fresh Air Fund’s Model Farm and enforcing safety procedures with Fresh Air Fund campers and staff.
  3. Understand that campers come first and decisions should be made in the best interest of campers
  4. Invest time with campers to meet their needs, challenge their capabilities, and serve as a role model during their time at camp.
  5. Manage the daily schedule for Farmer educators.
  6. Supervise, support, and evaluate Farmer Educators.
  7. Submit evaluations and inventories that are required.
  8. Strive to work cooperatively with fellow staff to achieve the program's goals.
  9. Be totally familiar with emergency procedures and follow them when necessary.
  10. Address stressful situations appropriately in a fast-paced, interactive environment.
  11. Oversee daily morning breakfast programs and occasional dinner programs.
  12. 12. Assume responsibility for the use and care of camp equipment and facilities
  13. Maintain the daily well-being of domestic livestock and the routine upkeep of the garden.
  14. Obtain a current First Aid and CPR certification (training is provided).
  15. Additional responsibilities as needed and assigned.


What We’re Looking For:

  1. Must be at least 21 years of age by the start of camp. ( June 29, 2026)
  2. Valid driver’s license preferred.
  3. At least three years of college education or equivalent work experience is preferred. College graduates are strongly preferred.
  4. ServSafe Food Handler's certification preferred
  5. Passionate about working with children and fostering a positive camp community.
  6. Having teaching experience in this area is preferred.
  7. Basic knowledge of animal care and nutrition.
  8. Knowledgeable about Agricultural equipment and practices. 
  9. Interested in working and living outdoors for the summer.
  10. Emotionally mature with a willingness to work as a team player.
  11. Prior supervisory or leadership experience required.
  12. Positive attitude and willingness to take initiative and adapt to changing circumstances.
  13. Able to regularly lift and/or move equipment and supplies weighing 20+ pounds.
  14. Comfortable with being exposed to wet, humid, and hot conditions.
  15. Available for 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 $3,300 - $3,800 for the summer season, commensurate with experience.  

  • All meals and housing are 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 a Farm 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.

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