New York Job Adventures

In Camphill, you will grow faster than you imagine possible, build deep, lasting relationships, and develop practical and creative skills that opendoors for the rest of your life.
In Camphill, you will grow faster than you imagine possible, build deep, lasting relationships, and develop practical and creative skills that open doors for the rest of your life.
Summer Jobs, Seasonal Jobs, Internships and Volunteer Work in the U.S. & Abroad



Camphill Association of North America

Camphill Communities

Live-in Volunteer Program

Camphill Communities are dedicated to creating communities where the recognition of each individual's gifts and contributions offer a model of renewal for the wider society. Camphill Volunteers live with and engage alongside children, youth and adults with developmental and other disabilities in one of fifteen sustainable communities throughout the U.S. (California, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania and Vermont) and Canada (British Columbia).

Program in the Spotlight Spend a year developing yourself—discover your deeper purpose and share your life and gifts in a thriving intentional community with Camphill. Live-in Volunteers grow faster than they imagine possible, build deep, lasting relationships, and develop practical and creative skills that open doors for the rest of their lives. This is a great chance to master new skills and carry them forward into your future. Biodynamic farming. Artisan baking. Woodworking. Leadership and cooperative collaboration. Mindfulness. Through a mix of structured training and hands-on practice under the guidance of mentors, you dive right in, and by the end of your year, you're not only comfortable with them, but you’re also leading others in learning. In addition to college loan support program, each community ensures that every volunteer's basic living needs are covered. This means you'll receive a monthly stipend, a private room in a beautiful environment, wholesome, mostly organic meals, medical coverage, and other essentials—from toiletries to use of community cars.

Camphill Is Actively Welcoming Live-In Volunteers!
More to explore!Apply for one of the 125 volunteer spots with start dates throughout the year and share your gifts in one of Camphill's 15 sustainable communities. Learn more about the volunteer experience and explore current positions here.

Explore open positions at Camphill Communities in New York:
Camphill Village USA
Camphill Hudson
Triform Camphill Community (Hudson)
Camphill Ghent (Chatham)

Unpause Your Life. A one minute peak into Camphill life.

Mary Wildfeuer
Regional Coordinator
Camphill Association of North America
2542 Route 66
Chatham, NY 12037
volunteer@camphill.org
Camphill.org
Backdoorjobs.com/Camphill.html

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Frost Valley YMCA is a values-driven organization that fosters youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility through outdoor educational and recreational programs for all.

Frost Valley YMCA Summer Adventure Camp

Summer Adventure Trip Leaders & Survival Camp Counselors

Frost Valley YMCA is located just 2½ hours north of New York City in the heart of the Catskill Mountains. Off-site adventure programs take campers on trips throughout Maine, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania and Vermont as they learn how to trust in themselves and each other, and work together to explore, problem solve, and achieve common goals.

YMCA Job ListingFrost Valley YMCA is a camp, retreat destination, and environmental education center offering people of all ages and abilities enriching outdoor experiences, adventure, and fun.

Adventure Trip Leaders along with a co-leader supervise and care for campers as they engage in service elements and/or backpack, climb, hike, kayak, canoe, whitewater raft and sail throughout natural spaces over a two-week period. Responsibilities include preparing food and gear logistics for each assigned trip, teaching backcountry cooking skills, fire building, campsite selection and maintenance, Leave No Trace seven principles, and fostering an environment where campers can gain confidence, leadership skills, conflict resolution skills, and other interpersonal skills.
Adventure Trip Logistics Coordinators assist in creating a successful pack-out, return and safety of all off-site overnight trips, mentor trip leaders, directly oversee the food and/or gear room, and keep the Trip Center in outstanding running condition.
Adventure Village Counselors oversee camper day-to-day needs and provide safe, fun entertainment and wholesome activities. Counselors run programming specifically for kids interested in adventure activities at camp and lead 3-5 day hiking, climbing, and canoeing trips closer to camp.

2026 summer camp runs from mid-June to mid-August. Compensation ranges from $475-$720/week plus room, board, and the opportunity to explore the Northeast. Adventure applicants must be at least 21 years of age, have a clean driving record, minimum WFR certification, and experience working with kids ages 10-17 in an outdoor setting, or a strong desire to gain experience in such an environment. View all current summer job openings and apply online.

Whether on an adventure trip to beautiful and awe-inspiring places in New York or on a service learning trip, Frost Valley YMCA's adventure programs are all about character building, challenging yourself, making lasting friendships, and experiencing first hand the difference you can make. View the Frost Valley Y adventure camp experience »

Kiara Mitchell
HR Specialist
Frost Valley YMCA
2000 Frost Valley Rd.
Claryville, NY 12725

(845) 985-2291 ext. 209
hr@frostvalley.org
FrostValley.org

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Frost Valley YMCA is a values-driven organization that fosters youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility through outdoor educational and recreational programs for all.

Frost Valley YMCA

Outdoor Instructors

Located on 6,000 acres of gorgeous forest surrounded by thousands of acres of state owned Forever Wild land, Frost Valley provides the opportunity to work with youth, families and adult groups from all backgrounds and diverse communities across New York City, Long Island, Northern New Jersey and Upstate New York. The campus is in the heart of the Catskill Mountains, just 2½ hours north of New York City and a short drive to Phoenicia, Woodstock, New Paltz, and Ellenville. Some of the best hikes in the Catskills are minutes from their doorstep, as well as some of the best fishing locations in the country. If you love being outdoors and in the mountains, Frost Valley could be the perfect place for you.

YMCA Job ListingReady to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Catskill Mountains? Frost Valley YMCA is seeking vibrant and passionate individuals to be a part of their dynamic team! Explore the great outdoors, inspire young minds, and create unforgettable memories at one of the most exciting outdoor education centers.

As an Outdoor Instructor (20+ openings!), you’ll dive into thrilling outdoor experiences that ignite a love for learning and foster deeper connections. Through environmental education, team building, and group & family retreats programs, you’ll lead guided hikes, ecological lessons, team building activities, adventure education, and even conquer exhilarating high and low ropes elements. Rain or shine, you’ll engage with students and guests of all ages—bringing the magic of nature to life. Positions are available during the spring (late March to mid-June), fall (late August through November), and a full academic year (late August to mid-June). Compensation starts at $16/hour, with benefits that include a private room in shared housing, meals when guests are on property, basic groceries, WiFi access, professional conference and training opportunities, pro-deal purchases, 3 paid floating holidays, relocation reimbursement, and full medical benefits (after 60 days) for academic year positions. Applicants must have previous experience working with children and adults (in the classroom, nature centers, outdoor schools, or camp setting), effective leadership, teaching, facilitation and communication skills, and a commitment to providing exceptional guest service and warm hospitality to guests from diverse backgrounds. A Bachelor's degree (preferably in education, environmental studies, outdoor recreation, or related field) or equivalent life experience is preferred. If you have a deep passion for the outdoors, fueled by awe and wonder, check out all current year-round job openings here.

Fall Season & Academic Year Job Openings
Frost Valley YMCA is currently seeking Outdoor Instructors for the fall season (August 19th to November 22nd, 2026) or the full academic year spanning through June 18th, 2027. Two weeks of paid training kicks off the season for both positions.

As a camp, retreat destination, and environmental education center, Frost Valley provides year-round access to nature, adventure, growth, and fun! View the experience »

Kiara Mitchell
HR Specialist
Frost Valley YMCA
2000 Frost Valley Rd.
Claryville, NY 12725

(845) 985-2291 ext. 209
hr@frostvalley.org
FrostValley.org

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NYC Outward Bound Schools: Transforming Schools, Changing Lives!

NYC Outward Bound Schools

Outdoor Adventure Lead Instructors & Instructors

NYC Outward Bound Schools provides students with opportunities to engage in educational experiences outside of their classroom and local community, aimed at helping them prepare for future roles in community, higher education, and professional settings.

NYC Outward Bound Schools staff members share a deep belief that every individual is capable of great achievement with the right mix of challenge and support. Seeking mission-aligned individuals from diverse backgrounds who embody the core values of community, courage, equity, integrity, and learning in all aspects of their work.

Now Hiring Instructors for the Spring Season (March 18th to June 17th)
Lead Outdoor Adventure Instructor (Seasonal)—positions filled
Outdoor Adventure Instructor (Per Diem)—still hiring!

All Instructors lead students on outdoor adventure courses including hiking, low ropes courses, belaying support on rock climbing walls, and team-building programs at a remote location in Fishkill, NY and various sites across the five boroughs in NYC. During overnight and single day programs, Instructors plan components of outdoor adventure courses, facilitate adventurous learning experiences, adapt activities based on students’ needs, and ensure a safe and exciting learning environment for all participating youth. Compensation ranges from $159.65-$188.50/day, with perks that include housing, meals during overnight programs, and access to local climbing gyms. Comprehensive training and onboarding is also provided, including instruction in experiential facilitation, course structure, youth development, safety protocols, and best practices to prepare instructors to work effectively with students. While prior experience in outdoor adventure or climbing is beneficial, the key requirement is an enthusiasm for working with NYC youth and expanding their perspectives of the world. Positions open until filled.

Vicki Raines (she/her)
Director of HR
NYC Outward Bound Schools
2946 Northern Blvd
Long Island City, NY 11101

(917) 772-3478
vraines@nycoutwardbound.org
NYCOutwardBound.org

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At the heart of Ramapo's work is the conviction that all children seek the same things: to learn, feel valued, and experience success. Ramapo helps young people learn to align their behaviors with their aspirations.

Ramapo for Children

RamaYear Launch Year Program

Through direct service youth programs and highly regarded training programs for adults, Ramapo serves children and young adults with social, emotional and learning differences, ADHD and/or autism spectrum disorders—enabling them to succeed in the classroom, at home and in life.

RamaYear offers recent college graduates an opportunity to dedicate 12–15 months of their early careers to a comprehensive and transformative work experience focused on leadership and service. Participants will reside on Ramapo’s 240-acre campus in Rhinebeck, NY, receive extensive training in the Ramapo Approach, and serve a diverse group of young individuals and adults annually. RamaYears work in one of two tracks:

More exploration!Retreats Facilitator Track RamaYears work with groups of youth and educators on outdoor adventure-based activities designed to enhance teamwork, communication, social-emotional development, and relationship-building skills. Responsibilities include leading icebreakers, facilitating ropes courses, building campfires, and guiding participants through leadership development exercises.

More exploration!Direct Support Professional Track RamaYears work closely with staff assistants (young adults with social, emotional and learning differences) to facilitate programming, support participants in vocational training, and provide ongoing coaching.

Compensation includes a $27,000/year salary, semi-private housing, meals, fitness area, access to Ramapo's beautiful 250-acre campus (with hiking trails, fields, and corral with sheep, goats, and chickens), health, dental, vision, and life insurance, 401k (matching) after 1 year of employment, education reimbursement, professional development, and vacation, holiday, and sick time. Ideal applicants are looking to join a community of passionate, caring people, all while gaining invaluable professional experience in education, social work, and human services. Applications are reviewed and accepted on a rolling basis or contact Sophie Yolowitz for more information.

View Matthew's RamaYear story »

Sophie Yolowitz
Director of Staffing
Ramapo for Children
22 Camp Ramapo Rd
Rhinebeck, NY 12572

(845) 876-8423
staffing@ramapoforchildren.org
RamapoforChildren.org

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Hawthorne Valley Farm Camp

Overnight & Day Camp Counselors and Camp Cooks

The Place Based Learning Center at Hawthorne Valley Farm Camp offers young campers ages 8-16 the opportunity to spend their summer in a no-tech, nature-based, Waldorf-inspired camp on a beautiful 900-acre working organic and Biodynamic farm. Awakening to the daily rhythms of nature and farm life, children rediscover the joys of learning, working, and playing together while creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Come join the Hawthorne Valley Farm Camp summer team and make a difference!

Overnight & Day Camp Counselors support, co-create and lead activities like gardening, farming, swimming, animal care, arts & crafts, and cooking. While being a counselor can be challenging, it’s also highly rewarding. The schedule is busy and camp life is quite different from a typical routine. Overnight Counselors work six days each week, whereas Day Camp Counselors have five-day weeks (8am–4pm) with weekends off.
Camp Cooks prepare meals that are primarily vegetarian, organic, and locally sourced for up to 80 staff and campers. A varied 6-8 hour shift six days/week is a typical work schedule.

Applicants must make a commitment from June 15th to August 8th, 2026. All staff members receive compensation ranging for $2,800-$4,800 (dependent on position/qualifications), shared staff accommodations, and delicious, home-cooked meals created from food produced on the farm and other Hudson Valley organic growers. If you’re passionate about working with kids, love the outdoors, positive and adaptable, hardworking and ready for a challenge, interested in sustainability and nature, and committed to creating an inclusive, safe, and welcoming environment for campers and fellow counselors alike, fill out the online application.

Hear counselors and campers reflect on their transformative experience at Hawthorne Valley Farm Camp — where children connect deeply with nature, community, and themselves through hands-on farm work, screen-free living, and shared care for one another.

Joe Harris
Director
Hawthorne Valley Farm Summer Camp
327 County Rt 21C
Ghent, NY 12075

(518) 672-4790 ext. 204
jharris@hawthornevalley.org
Camp.HawthorneValley.org

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St. Lawrence University is a coeducational, private, independent liberal arts institution of about 2,000 students.

St. Lawrence University Outdoor Program

Outdoor Program Assistant Director

Located in Canton, NY, St. Lawrence University is a coeducational, private, independent liberal arts institution of about 2,000 students. The Outdoor Program provides professional outdoor recreational and educational programming to the campus community, locally in the Adirondack Mountains, throughout North America, and internationally. Instruction and guiding are done with Outdoor Program professional staff and trained student guides unless outside guide services are required. Its mission is to create a safe yet challenging space for students to build leadership skills and promote responsible environmental and wilderness ethics.

Now seeking an Assistant Director for the Outdoor Program!
The Assistant Director will teach two courses with outdoor related themes (one in the fall semester and one in the spring), team-teach the Outdoor Leadership Course (Guide Training) during the spring, manage two campus facilities (indoor climbing wall, rental equipment, canoe livery), supervise, manage and provide continued development of a technical skill program (climbing, paddling, skiing, biking), and collaborate with and mentor graduate assistants. This is a permanent, 10-month position from August 1st to May 31st. Compensation includes a salary of $51,961.67 plus a comprehensive benefits package. Applicants must have a Bachelor's degree (Master's preferred), WFR/CPR certification, experience leading and instructing multi-day technical trips, extended wilderness trips, and outdoor leadership. In addition, candidates should be able to teach and lead technical outdoor courses in climbing, paddling, skiing or other technical skill sets. Professional experience with organizations such as NOLS, Outward Bound, or similar programs is preferred. Interested applicants must apply online (a cover letter, resume, three reference letters, and copies of certifications are required). Download a detailed job description here; questions may be sent to Anna Carpenter. Review of applications will begin immediately with priority review by May 15, 2026.

View a slideshow of the Outdoor Program.

Anna Carpenter
Outdoor Program Assistant Director
St. Lawrence University
Newell Field House L29D
23 Romoda Dr.
Canton, NY 13617

(315) 229-5018
acarpenter@stlawu.edu
StLawU.edu/Outdoor

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