Summer Camp Assistant Director of Operations

Who we are

Ethical Culture Fieldston School is a progressive PreK-12 independent school that has been serving students from throughout New York City and the surrounding suburbs since 1878. ECFS offers a rich curriculum in the arts, sciences, and humanities. A co-ed, nonsectarian school, it serves an inclusive community of about 1,700 students on two campuses - one in the Riverdale section of the Bronx and the other in Manhattan.

What is essential about working at our school

The Ethical Culture Fieldston School has a long history of inclusion and belonging deeply rooted in our mission and the educational philosophy of our founder, Felix Adler. We embrace all aspects of an individual, including their ancestry, family, identity, culture, and beliefs. We affirm both our differences and commonalities and strive to balance individuality and community. In keeping with our progressive tradition, we are dedicated to increasing our students’ cultural literacy to help them understand multiple perspectives and see the world beyond the self. 

We expect members of our community to engage in open dialogue about living and learning in an inclusive environment inside and outside the classroom. We see this work, with its creative tensions, as a catalyst for individual and collective growth. On a daily basis, we are committed to making this vision of a democratic, pluralistic, and progressive school a reality. 

Summer at ECFS 
Summer at ECFS is a six-week summer day camp for rising PreK through 8th grade children. Both morning and afternoon sessions specifically cater to each camper’s interests. Each week focuses on a new student-designed theme, which encourages campers to build, play, and learn through a unique and engaging lens. Students grow, learn, imagine, and collaborate across disciplines, while building bonds in a joyful, inclusive community.

Position Summary
The Summer at ECFS Assistant Director is an important part of our camp leadership and will be essential to upholding the camp mission while supporting the implementation of stellar, safe summer programs. The Assistant Director of Operations will play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the summer camp, primarily focusing on managing logistics and various aspects of daily camp operations.

The AD of Operations position is from May 15 to July 31, 2026. The AD of Operations must also be available to attend the following mandatory training dates: May 31st, June 13th, and June 14th.

The hiring salary is $10,000. When determining the rate, ECFS considers factors including, but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, internal peer equity, key skills required for the role, the candidate’s work experience, education, and training, as well as market and organizational considerations.

Please note that this is an on-site role and is not performed remotely. Ethical Culture Fieldston School retains its right to modify job duties in accordance with changing operational needs.

Responsibilities

The responsibilities of the Assistant Director of Operations  will be:

• Coordinating all aspects of field trips for campers, including transportation, activities, and any necessary documentation;

• Collaborating with the Camp Director, Assistant Directors, and all members of camp staff, and counselors to ensure field trips align with the overall camp program;

• Partnering with vendors, transportation providers, and other external partners to ensure that all logistical elements are in place;

• Working closely with the camp office administrator to maintain a daily attendance record for all campers and staff;

• Collaborating with the camp director and counselors to develop and manage the daily schedule, ensuring a balance of educational and recreational activities;

• Communicating important information, updates, and changes in schedules promptly through proper channels;

• Supporting the coordination of special events within the camp, such as weekly theme days and vendors, and ensuring that they integrate seamlessly into the camp program.

• Managing camp resources, including supplies, equipment, and facilities, while working with the camp office administrator to ensure timely procurement of necessary materials for daily activities;

• Serving as a model for best practices by offering coaching and guidance, contributing to both formal and informal program and performance evaluation, and recruiting, hiring, and assisting with the orientation of new camp staff;

• Overseeing the operations of specialty areas, including the sports fields and pool;

• Working in tandem with the nurse and director to ensure all health and safety protocols align with Department of Health codes and standards;

• Reviewing, updating, and creating risk mitigation policies for emergency action plans, maintaining accurate documentation and managing incident and accident reports while monitoring the supervision and safety of campers and staff;

• Ensuring the confidentiality of student information as necessary;

• Maintaining compliance with all school policies, state regulations and educational standards; and

• Performing other related projects and duties as needed and assigned.

Requirements

The successful incumbent will possess:

• A Bachelor’s Degree or some college-level coursework; 

• At least 3 years of previous leadership experience working in a summer camp, academic, or enrichment program for elementary and middle school aged children, including managing the daily operations of a camp or similar educational/ recreational program;

• The ability to collaborate and build strong relationships with faculty, administrators, students, parents, and the overall community; 

• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make effective decisions in dynamic situations;

• A commitment to cultural competency and to fostering an inclusive environment that supports students of all backgrounds;

• Proficiency in MS Office, G-Suite and database applications;

• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills;

• The ability to manage time effectively, stay organized, and prioritize required tasks with a strong attention to detail; 

• Able to manage physical and emotional risk and safety for all campers and staff;

• A self-starter who is able to work independently and is able to shift priorities when necessary;

• Maintain confidentiality in matters of sensitivity;

• Ability to effectively communicate camp procedures and guidelines and feedback to staff and campers;.

• A positive attitude and the ability to listen effectively and be receptive to feedback; 

• CPR and First Aid Certification or willing to obtain;

• Reliability, punctuality, and consistent attendance; and

• Cultivate a welcoming culture in which all members of our community feel valued and appreciated.

To Apply:
All candidates should visit our employment page at www.ecfs.org to apply. Please submit a resume along with an email and phone contact information of three professional references.

EEO
ECFS is an equal opportunity employer. We seek to be a welcoming community of professionals that broadly reflects the people of the metropolitan New York City area, our students, and families. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion or religious practices, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, citizenship status, national origin, age, ability status, military status, unemployment status or any other category protected by applicable local, state, or federal laws. We are committed to hiring practices that ensure all candidates are given fair consideration in alignment with our institutional mission and goals.