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
We are looking for an energetic and enthusiastic Summer Camp Sports Coach to join our team for the 2026 season. The ideal candidate has experience working with children and a passion for coaching, mentorship, and active play. Coaches will be responsible for leading a variety of sports and physical activities that promote teamwork, skill-building, and fun in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Candidates should be comfortable engaging with campers of varying ages and skill levels, creating a positive, safe space where all participants can thrive. The ability to adapt games, provide encouragement, and foster sportsmanship is essential.

This is a full-time role beginning June 22, 2026 through July 31, 2026. All coaches must also be available to attend the following mandatory training dates: May 31st, June 13th, and June 14th.

The hiring range for this position is $25.00-$30.00 per hour. 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

Responsibilities of the Summer Camp Sports Coach will be:

• Planning and leading age-appropriate sports activities and games for campers ages 5–13, ensuring activities are engaging, organized, and developmentally appropriate;

• Teaching fundamental sports skills, rules, teamwork, and sportsmanship while maintaining a safe and positive environment;

• Organizing structured games, drills, and practice sessions that encourage participation and skill development;

• Appropriately addressing student behavioral issues and other challenges that may arise in order to maintain a safe environment and a sense of calm in such situations;

• Communicating with campers to build confidence, encourage goal-setting, and support personal improvement;

• Supporting campers in overcoming challenges and building resilience through sports and physical activity;

• Recognizing individual strengths and helping campers apply them during team activities and games.

• Monitoring camper progress and providing feedback to support skill development.

• Maintaining clear expectations for behavior and sportsmanship during activities and games;

• Organizing, distributing, and maintaining sports equipment and materials;

• Keeping basic records and maintaining compliance with all school policies, state regulations, and educational standards; and

• Performing other projects, initiatives, and duties as needed and assigned.

Requirements

The successful incumbent will possess:

• A Bachelor's Degree;

• Prior experience playing the sport or coaching is preferred;

• Prior experience working with students in grades K-8;

• The ability to adhere to school, team, and sports league policies, regulations, and standards;

• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills to be able to effectively evaluate and interact with student athletes, parents, and stakeholders;

• Excellent organizational and problem-solving ability;

• The ability to work evenings and weekends if necessary for orientations.

• Ability to inspire and motivate;

• The ability to be a team player with the ability, flexibility and willingness to work with adolescents, staff, and families;

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

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

• The ability to inspire through creativity and be able to bring these talents to the campers;

• Reliability, punctuality, and consistent attendance; and

• The ability to 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.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/protected veterans