Lead Machine Sewing Counselor - NJ

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.

Guided by our core values of Compassion, Trust, Growth, and Creativity, we foster an environment where learning, discovery, and personal development thrive. Our vision is to inspire generations of resilient, compassionate, and confident individuals who contribute positively to their communities and the world.

We operate across DC, MD, NJ, PA, and VA, offering all-inclusive programs that make summer exciting for children and easy for families. Learn more: DEAN Adventure Camps.

What You’ll Do

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

• Teaching campers a range of sewing projects  from beginner-friendly items like pillows and tote bags to more advanced garments, patterns, and layered designs.
• Adapting instruction to a wide age range (ages 9–16), ensuring that younger campers learn at a safe, steady pace while older campers are given opportunities for independence and creativity.
• Guiding campers in reading and interpreting sewing patterns, measuring and cutting fabric, and troubleshooting machine issues.
• Fostering creativity by encouraging campers to customize their projects with fabric choices, embellishments, and design ideas.
• Reinforcing sewing safety and workshop etiquette, including machine setup, needle safety, and clean-up routines.
• Supporting the Site Director in operating your designated program, such as: attendance reporting, supply management, and documenting incidents.
• Executing lesson plans according to DEAN Adventure Camps' set curricula.
• Fostering a welcoming space that celebrates diversity and inclusion.
• Managing groups with enthusiasm, patience, and creativity.

What Makes You a Great Fit

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

• Machine Sewing 
  • Proficiency in Machine Sewing – Skilled in using a variety of sewing machines (mechanical and electronic), threading, tension adjustment, and troubleshooting.
  • Fabric Knowledge – Understanding of different fabrics (woven, knit, specialty) and how they interact with machines.
  • Pattern Reading & Interpretation – Ability to read, interpret, and teach sewing patterns; confident in guiding campers through pinning, cutting, and adjustments.
• Adaptable Teacher – Experienced in working with a broad age range (9–16), skilled at scaffolding instruction so younger campers feel supported while older campers are challenged.
• Creative Mentor – Excels at blending technical instruction with creative freedom, encouraging campers to personalize and problem-solve.
• Youth Experience – Comfortable managing groups of children and teens with patience, enthusiasm, and a strong focus on safety.
• Problem-Solver – You think on your feet, helping counselors and campers overcome obstacles quickly and calmly.
• Team Player – You excel at mentoring Assistant and Junior Counselors through strong leadership and communication. You are comfortable managing CITs.

Schedule and Requirements

• Full on-site availability during the summer: June–August, Monday–Friday
  • Hours: camp operates 7am–6pm, leads typically work 35 hours per week within this timeframe, generally 8am-4pm
  • Ability to commute to: 2500 Main St, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
• Must be at least 21 years old.
• Must be up to date on all immunizations and willing to provide emergency health information upon hire.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs, respond quickly to emergencies, and work in an active, outdoor environment.
• Must have valid First Aid & CPR certification.

Perks and Benefits

• Pay range: $20-25/hr – exact rate is determined by state minimum and experience.
• FLSA Status: This is a seasonal full-time, exempt position under the FLSA.

• Paid training: remote training on: including safety, DEI, classroom management, and more + in-person staff training the weekend prior to camp; please note that training is paid at state minimum wage, or $12/hr, whichever is higher.

• All required background checks and certifications fully reimbursed.
• Summer Bonus: Earn an additional $40 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 snacks, coffee, and parking + Monday breakfast.
• Employee discounts on camp rates for family members, 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.

Join our team and make a difference this summer! Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis — apply early to secure your spot.