Who We Are

At DEAN Adventure Camps, we create life-changing opportunities for young people to discover their passions, explore endless possibilities, achieve meaningful goals, and navigate thrilling adventures—all while developing character and skills that last a lifetime. As a Lead Counselor, you’ll play a key role in delivering this mission by fostering a safe, engaging, and inclusive camp environment.

This job is ideal for teachers, coaches, youth program leaders, and childcare professionals who excel in structured, high-energy environments and have a passion for mentoring kids. We operate across DC, MD, NJ, PA, and VA, offering all-inclusive programs that make summer exciting for kids and easy for families. Learn more: DEAN Adventure Camps.

What You’ll Do

As a Lead Specialty Counselor, you’ll help create a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment where kids thrive. Your responsibilities include:

• Leading hands-on activities like skateboarding, robotics, woodworking, parkour, or creative arts.
• Supporting the Site Director in operating your designated camp location, including but not limited to: attendance reporting, supply management, and documenting incidents.
• Executing lesson plans according to DEAN Adventure Camps' set curricula.
• Supporting team-building challenges and outdoor adventures.
• Fostering a welcoming space that celebrates diversity and inclusion.
• Managing groups with enthusiasm, patience, and creativity.
• Acting as a mentor and role model for campers and junior staff.

Teaching an Area of Specialty

As a Lead Specialty Counselor, you should be able to teach and display technical knowledge associated with the following subject:

• Design & Build
  • Creative Problem-Solving & Prototyping – Ability to guide students in iterative design processes and testing structures.
  • Model-Making & Scale Interpretation – Knowledge of how to create small-scale models representing real-world designs.
  • Structural Engineering Basics – Understanding of balance, load distribution, and architectural design principles.

What Makes You a Great Fit

• At least 21 years of age.
• At least 1 year’s experience working with kids in a group setting (camps, teaching, coaching, babysitting, etc.).
• Adaptability and problem-solving skills—you think on your feet.
• Strong leadership and communication—you engage, inspire, and guide.
• Tech-savviness (Google Workspace, Slack, etc.).
• Ability to meet the physical demands of a high-energy camp setting.
• Comfortable and capable of managing Assistant Counselor(s) and Counselor(s) in Training (CITs).

Schedule and Requirements

• June–August (exact dates vary by location)
• Monday–Friday, 36–40 hours per week
• Must be fully vaccinated and up to date on all immunizations.
• Ability to lift 35 lbs, respond quickly to emergencies, and work in an active, outdoor environment.

Perks and Benefits

• Pay rate $25-30/hr – Biweekly Pay Schedule. The exact pay rate is determined by state minimum wages and experience.
• Paid training at state minimum wage (18–20 hours, including leadership, classroom management, and DEI).
• All required background checks and certifications fully reimbursed.
• Summer Commitment Bonus: Earn an additional $50 per week for working six or more weeks with no absences.
• Referral Bonus: Earn $50 per hired referral, with no referral limits.
• Daily perks: Free Monday breakfast, snacks, coffee, and parking.
• Employee discounts on camp rates, outdoor gear, art supplies, electronics, and more.
• Career growth: Gain resume-building experience, letters of recommendation, and networking opportunities.

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

DEAN Adventure Camps is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from diverse candidates. Hiring decisions are based on a candidate’s qualifications as they relate to the position’s requirements and are made without regard to race, sex, national origin, color, age, disability, veteran status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, religion, or any other category protected by applicable law.

Apply today and make this summer unforgettable for kids and yourself