Summer Camp Counselor for Creative and Outdoor Programming
If you believe a job is to inspire and create, smiles are a part of the uniform, and you don't mind occasionally getting tangled in the thread, performing a kickflip, or playing a rousing game of Ga-Ga, we need to talk!
Who We Are
At DEAN Adventure Camps, we create more than just summer memories—we inspire the next generation of resilient, curious, and confident kids. Designed for campers from Pre-K to age 15, our camps provide transformative experiences through our unique approach: "Learn by Making," "Learn by Doing," and "Learn by Playing."
Every day at DEAN is an adventure filled with opportunities to discover passions, explore new skills, achieve greatness, and navigate challenges with confidence. From thrilling activities like skateboarding and parkour to creative pursuits like machine sewing and team-building challenges, we empower kids to uncover their potential in a safe, supportive environment.
Our mission is clear: to help every camper Discover strengths, Explore endless possibilities, Achieve goals, and Navigate exciting adventures. Guided by our core values—building Trust, delivering Care, fostering Education, and inspiring Creativity—we create an enriching and dynamic experience for all.
Operating at seven premier locations across DC, MD, NJ, PA, and VA, DEAN Adventure Camps are a hub for connection, growth, and creativity. Whether you’re a parent seeking a transformative summer experience for your child or a passionate individual looking to join a dynamic team, DEAN Adventure Camps is the place to shine. Let’s make the summer unforgettable—for campers, your team, and your career!
For more information, check out our programs: https://dean2025schedule.softr.app/
A Great DEAN Adventure Camps Counselor is
- Passionate about our mission: You value experiential education, project-based learning, and creating safe, inclusive spaces.
- Experienced with youth: At least 1 year of experience working with kids (e.g., babysitting, summer camps, teaching).
- Versatile leader: Confident in resolving parent concerns, mentoring Counselors in Training, managing camper conflicts, and embracing fun themes like Superhero Day.
- Flexible and resourceful: Adaptable to changes and skilled at finding creative solutions.
- Strong communicator: Effective at working independently and collaboratively while meeting goals and deadlines.
- Problem-solver: Thrives on ensuring camp is safe, fun, and organized.
- Growth-oriented: Open to feedback, committed to learning, and dedicated to personal and professional growth.
- Organized: Able to maintain order in a creative, fast-paced environment.
- Willing to learn: Excited to explore and teach hands-on skills in areas like:
- Learn by Making: Sewing, building, baking, cooking, woodworking, coding, etc.
- Learn by Doing: Biking, skateboarding, parkour, sports, exploration, etc.
- Learn by Playing: Creative activities with young kids (3-5 years old), including STEAM, cooking, and movement.
- Tech-savvy: Comfortable using tools like Google Workspace, Slack, and other digital platforms.
- Availability: Committed to the camp schedule (June–August, Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM, ~36-40 hours per week).
Comfortable and capable of the following physical demands of this position with reasonable accommodation:
- Vaccinated against COVID-19, up to date on all other immunizations, and willing to provide proof.
- Willing to submit a health form if a partnership location requires it.
- Lift and carry 35 lbs independently. With or without reasonable accommodation.
- Identify and quickly respond to emergencies.
- Stand, walk, run, and climb stairs to respond to various situations quickly.
- Sit for long periods and maintain mental and physical alertness.
- Ability to maintain high energy and tolerance to environments with high activity and noise levels.
- Ability to maintain composure, keep calm, and collect in high-energy environments.
- Withstand daily exposure to weather and the elements (especially June-August).
- Work 7-8 hour days during the months of June-August.
Full Lead Counselor job description here: https://bit.ly/3NrekA1
Full Assistant Counselor job description here: https://bit.ly/3Ri1LZ5
Full Junior Counselor job description here: https://bit.ly/3T4dQmN
DEAN Adventure Camps Counselors Will Receive
- Comprehensive Training and Curriculum Provided:
- 18-20 hours of paid training.
- Leadership, classroom management, curriculum instruction, behavior management, and Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI).
- A fully developed curriculum.
- 18-20 hours of paid training.
- Full reimbursement for required background checks and certifications:
- This may include certifications such as CPR, First Aid, and FBI fingerprinting.
- Daily Perks:
- Breakfast is provided every Monday.
- Coffee, drinks, and snacks available daily.
- Free parking.
- Summer Commitment Bonus:
- Be eligible to earn an additional $50/week for working six or more weeks of camp and fulfilling your contracted schedule with no lateness or absences.
- Referral Bonus Program:
- Earn $50 for every direct hire you recommend who successfully completes their contract. No referral limits!
- Employee Discounts:
- Free or deeply discounted camp rates for your immediate dependents.
- Pro-deal and industry discounts on outdoor gear, art supplies, electronics, and more.
- Career Growth:
- Gain resume-building skills, support for educational goals, and personalized letters of recommendation.
- Premiere locations:
- Work at top educational institutions, such as Sidwell Friends Schools, The Potomac School, The Key School, Haverford College, and the Lawrenceville School.
- Consistent Summer Schedule:
- Predictable workweek with hours set Monday through Friday and no evening shifts. Exact schedules vary by location, but most positions offer 36–40 hours per week.
DEAN Adventure Camps is an equal-opportunity employer and welcomes applications from diverse candidates. Hiring decisions are based upon a candidate's qualifications as they relate to the requirements of the position under consideration 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.