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Program Assistant for CAP

The Fresh Air Fund

New York, NY 10017-6706 • $17.00 to $20.00 / hr • 9/26/2026

Professional

Job Description

Job Description

CAP PROGRAM ASSISTANT ROLE DESCRIPTION (PART-TIME)

Since 1877, The Fresh Air Fund (Fresh Air) has been a leading youth development organization providing transformative opportunities for children and young adults from New York City's underserved communities. Rooted in the belief that access to nature and outdoor experiences can change lives, Fresh Air connects young people to the outdoors while providing opportunities for personal growth, leadership development and exploration. Through free summer camp and year-round leadership development, educational enrichment and career exploration programs, Fresh Air helps young people develop the skills, confidence and connections they need to thrive.

Serving more than 1.8 million children throughout its history, Fresh Air remains committed to expanding access to life-changing experiences that empower young people to reach their full potential. At Fresh Air, employees are driven by purpose, collaboration and a shared commitment to creating opportunities that help young people succeed.

Role Summary: The Program Assistant supports the Career Awareness Program team with the day-to-day coordination and implementation of program activities, including administrative tasks, participant and volunteer communication, program logistics, and hands-on support during program sessions. The Program Assistant will help create a positive, safe, and engaging experience for youth while contributing to the successful delivery of Career Awareness Program. This is a part-time “at-will” position for the period September through May.

Responsibilities:

  • Lead and support engaging, age-appropriate activities during program sessions.
  • Build positive relationships with youth, create a safe and welcoming program environment.
  • Encourage youth participation and engagement and help create a positive group dynamic during program sessions.
  • Provide support and encouragement to youth and serve as a positive role model.
  • Share observations and feedback with the Program Coordinator to help strengthen programming and the participant experience.
  • Support participants with check-in/check-out, attendance, and overall program experience.
  • Communicate with youth, families, and volunteers by phone, email, and in person.
  • Chaperone youth on Fresh Air buses and/or public transportation.
  • Assist with program preparation, logistics, and administrative tasks, including data entry.
  • Work collaboratively with the Career Awareness Program Team and other Fresh Air staff.
  • Attend assigned after-school and weekend program sessions.
  • Attend and actively participate in required staff meetings, trainings, and professional development.
  • Support the Programs Team with other tasks as needed.
  • Additional responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications/Requirements:

  • Aged 18 years or older
  • Afterschool and weekend Availabilities
  • Seasonal position which runs from September through May
  • Desire to work with children and excitement for the outdoors in NYC
  • At least one year of college or equivalent work experience
  • Experience working with The Fresh Air Fund or another youth development organization
  • Previous work and/or volunteer experience with children
  • Comfortable with using technology (Microsoft Suite, Google Workspace, Canva, etc.)
  • Comfortable traveling via public transportation in NYC
  • Bilingual a plus (Spanish, Mandarin)
  • As part of our commitment to maintaining a safe and healthy workplace, The Fresh Air Fund requires all employees to meet applicable vaccination requirements in accordance with federal, state, and local laws. As new public health issues arise, Fresh Air may require additional vaccinations. Proof of vaccination or an approved exemption will be required as a condition of employment, if applicable.

This role will primarily be in the NYC Office and in NYC, with occasional remote work.

It will be In-Person Tuesdays & Thursdays from 4:00 to 8:30 pm and select weekends.

Hours per Week: Approximately 5-10 hours/week, from September through May

Compensation: $17 - $20/hour

Employment Status: Part-Time, Non-Exempt, “at-will”

Benefits: None

Application Instructions: To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter. 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.