Job Description
[2026] Teen Program Director, Fresh Air Camps
TEEN PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Fresh Air Camps | Hudson Valley, NY | June 11 – August 15, 2026
Discover Fresh Air Camps
Since 1877, Fresh Air Fund Camps have opened new doors for over1.8 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:
Life as a Teen Program Director
Teen Program Directors oversee the Teen Leadership Program at their assigned camp. The Teen Leadership Program is for ages 13-17 at Camp ABC, Camp Tommy, Camp Hayden Marks and Camp Junior, and focuses on creating a supportive, engaging environment where youth can develop confidence and leadership skills. Through writing workshops, poetry slams, team building, and leadership workshops, participants strengthen social-emotional learning, cultural diversity, and personal growth. This program includes 4 levels: the 13-14 year olds, the Leaders in Training Program (LITs) for 15 year olds, Counselor in Training Program (CITs) for 16 year olds, and Junior Counselor programs.
The Teen Program Director ensures that curriculum and programming are delivered at a high level, coordinates staff training, and collaborates across camps to align teen programming with overall camp goals.
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 $3,300 to $3,800 for the summer.
The Teen Program Director will report to either the Assistant Director or Camp Director.
What You’ll Do
Coordinate with the Program Director to review the overall camp schedule and integrate Teen Leadership Program activities.
Plan and execute all aspects of the teen leadership curriculum, including training staff, scheduling workshops, assigning facilitators, and reserving locations.
Observe staff facilitation and provide guidance, feedback, and performance evaluations throughout the summer.
Ensure all supplies for the Teen Leadership Program are ordered, received, and managed effectively.
Coordinate with other camps to plan and execute multi-camp events and training opportunities.
Plan and oversee logistics for any off‑site trips, ensuring all safety and supervision protocols are met.
Work closely with village leaders to ensure camper and staff needs are supported within the teen program.
Review and edit curriculum throughout the season to incorporate feedback and continuous improvement.
Assist the Camp Director in staff orientation and in‑service training sessions.
Manage interpersonal and operational conflicts among campers, counselors, and staff in a timely and constructive manner.
Assist in staff and camper evaluations and maintain accurate records.
Collaborate with the Program Director on shared responsibilities to ensure smooth program operations.
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.
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 your comfort zone.
Driver’s license preferred.
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 for this role is $3,300— $3,800 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 Teen Program 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.
Will you be 18 years or older by June 29, 2026? Please note that all staff must be at least 18 by the time camp begins. If you are 16 or 17, please visit our website for more information about our programs for 16 and 17‑year‑olds.
Are you authorized to work lawfully in the United States?
(Note: If hired, a Form I‑9, Employment Eligibility Verification, must be completed at the start of employment.)
Do you require sponsorship to work in the United States? (now or in the future)
Are you able to commit to living and working at camp for the full summer, from June 11, 2026 – August 15, 2026?
What excites you most about working at camp?
Which Fresh Air Camp do you want to work at? Explore the 6 camps:
Have you been previously employed by The Fresh Air Fund before? If so, what was your position?
Did you participate in The Fresh Air Fund as a child (while you were under the age of 18)? If so, which programs did you participate in?
Please provide details on how you heard about The Fresh Air Fund (name of person or organization that referred you, which website, etc).
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Job Tags
Summer work, Live in, Local area, Visa sponsorship, Flexible hours, Night shift,