Junior Counselor

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 Junior Counselor, you’ll learn leadership skills while assisting Lead and Assistant Counselors in creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment for campers. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Helping with camper supervision during transitions, pool time, and free play.
• Supporting group activities, games, and projects.
• Building strong camper relationships by encouraging participation and inclusion.
• Assisting with de-escalation of small conflicts and modeling positive behavior.
• Showing enthusiasm and teamwork in all activities.

What Makes You a Great Fit

• This role is ideal for enthusiastic youth leaders who thrive as key support team members, balancing flexibility, camper engagement, and teamwork in a high-energy camp setting.
• Excited to work with kids – You enjoy engaging with campers and helping them succeed and you want to gain youth work experience.
• Flexible Team Player – You follow direction well and are open to moving between groups as needed.
• Positive role model – Younger campers look up to you, and you set a good example. You bring positivity, energy, and enthusiasm to every camp day.

Schedule and Requirements

• Full on-site availability during the summer: June–August
  • Hours: 8:30am - 3:45pm, Monday–Friday
  • Ability to commute to & from Haverford College daily
• Must be 16-17 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.

Perks and Benefits

• Pay range: $13/hour
• FLSA Status: This is a seasonal full-time, non-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 employment opportunity employer. We value diversity and inclusion and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. Hiring decisions are based on job-related qualifications and business needs and are made without regard to race, sex, national origin, color, age, disability, veteran status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, religion, or any other characteristic 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.