Fresh Air
[2026] Director of Specialists, Fresh Air Camps
Director of Specialists, Fresh Air Camps
Fresh Air Camps | Hudson Valley, NY | June 11 to August 15, 2026
Discover 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 Director of Specialists:
The Director of Specialists plays a key role in the overall management of camp by overseeing daily programming, supervising Program Staff (Specialists), coordinating camp schedules, and supporting administrative operations. This position ensures that every camper experiences high‑quality, engaging, and educational activities throughout their time at camp.
This role is ideal for applicants with prior camp experience who are ready to step into a leadership position and gain deeper insight into program development and management.
This position requires living onsite at camp from June 11 to August 15, 2026, with semi‑private adult housing and meals provided. Compensation for this role is $3,000 to $3,800 for the summer. The Director of Specialists will report to either the Camp Director or Assistant Director.
What You’ll Do:
Ensure that each program area delivers meaningful, hands‑on, and experiential learning opportunities for campers.
Directly supervise, mentor, and evaluate a team of 10–18 Program Staff (Specialists).
Conduct regular evaluations of program areas and instructors, offering feedback and support to maintain high standards of quality and safety.
Assist the Camp Director in planning and leading pre‑camp and in‑service training sessions.
Develop and facilitate a specialized orientation program for Program Staff, in addition to supporting the overall camp‑wide orientation.
Oversee inventory, ordering, and maintenance of supplies and equipment for all program areas.
Provide coverage and step into an activity leadership role as needed when a staff member is absent.
Observe activities regularly to ensure consistent program delivery and offer on‑the‑ground support to staff.
Coordinate and support volunteer groups participating in camp programs, ensuring meaningful engagement and smooth operations.
Collaborate closely with leadership staff to maintain a cohesive, camper‑centered approach to scheduling, programming, and daily camp life.
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.
At least three years of college or equivalent is preferred; college graduates are strongly preferred.
Extensive experience as a general counselor or staff member in a residential camp setting—prior supervisory experience preferred.
Ability to supervise fairly and diplomatically.
Passionate about working with children.
Interest in working and living outdoors for the summer.
Emotionally mature with a willingness to work as a team player.
Flexibility and willingness to accept challenges and step outside comfort zone.
Driver’s license preferred.
Available for the entire duration of the summer program.
Vaccination Requirement:
To maintain a safe and healthy workplace, all camp staff must meet applicable vaccination requirements in accordance with federal, state, and local laws, and be fully vaccinated against polio and MMR. Proof of vaccination or an approved exemption will be required as a condition of employment.
Ready to Join Us? Apply now to become a Director of Specialists and help us create magical summer moments. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and interviews are held virtually by our Camp Directors.
Diversity & Inclusion Statement The Fresh Air Fund is a proud 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.
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Discover 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 Director of Specialists:
The Director of Specialists plays a key role in the overall management of camp by overseeing daily programming, supervising Program Staff (Specialists), coordinating camp schedules, and supporting administrative operations. This position ensures that every camper experiences high‑quality, engaging, and educational activities throughout their time at camp.
This role is ideal for applicants with prior camp experience who are ready to step into a leadership position and gain deeper insight into program development and management.
This position requires living onsite at camp from June 11 to August 15, 2026, with semi‑private adult housing and meals provided. Compensation for this role is $3,000 to $3,800 for the summer. The Director of Specialists will report to either the Camp Director or Assistant Director.
What You’ll Do:
Ensure that each program area delivers meaningful, hands‑on, and experiential learning opportunities for campers.
Directly supervise, mentor, and evaluate a team of 10–18 Program Staff (Specialists).
Conduct regular evaluations of program areas and instructors, offering feedback and support to maintain high standards of quality and safety.
Assist the Camp Director in planning and leading pre‑camp and in‑service training sessions.
Develop and facilitate a specialized orientation program for Program Staff, in addition to supporting the overall camp‑wide orientation.
Oversee inventory, ordering, and maintenance of supplies and equipment for all program areas.
Provide coverage and step into an activity leadership role as needed when a staff member is absent.
Observe activities regularly to ensure consistent program delivery and offer on‑the‑ground support to staff.
Coordinate and support volunteer groups participating in camp programs, ensuring meaningful engagement and smooth operations.
Collaborate closely with leadership staff to maintain a cohesive, camper‑centered approach to scheduling, programming, and daily camp life.
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.
At least three years of college or equivalent is preferred; college graduates are strongly preferred.
Extensive experience as a general counselor or staff member in a residential camp setting—prior supervisory experience preferred.
Ability to supervise fairly and diplomatically.
Passionate about working with children.
Interest in working and living outdoors for the summer.
Emotionally mature with a willingness to work as a team player.
Flexibility and willingness to accept challenges and step outside comfort zone.
Driver’s license preferred.
Available for the entire duration of the summer program.
Vaccination Requirement:
To maintain a safe and healthy workplace, all camp staff must meet applicable vaccination requirements in accordance with federal, state, and local laws, and be fully vaccinated against polio and MMR. Proof of vaccination or an approved exemption will be required as a condition of employment.
Ready to Join Us? Apply now to become a Director of Specialists and help us create magical summer moments. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and interviews are held virtually by our Camp Directors.
Diversity & Inclusion Statement The Fresh Air Fund is a proud 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.
#J-18808-Ljbffr