Lead Fellowship 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 Lead DEAN Fellowship Counselor, you’ll serve as a mentor, facilitator, and leadership coach for high school–aged Fellows participating in DEAN’s immersive leadership and professional development program. Responsibilities include:

• Guiding Fellows through a three-week rotational experience, supporting them as they shadow instructors, assist with camp operations, and engage in hands-on leadership opportunities.
• Facilitating daily leadership workshops and discussions focused on collaboration, communication, entrepreneurship, creative problem-solving, and adaptive leadership.
• Coaching Fellows as they take on increasing responsibility working with younger campers and adult staff, offering real-time feedback and reflection.
• Supporting Fellows in planning, executing, and presenting an independent capstone project, from concept development through final presentation.
• Leading structured reflection sessions that help Fellows connect camp experiences to real-world skills and future goals.
• Modeling professionalism, accountability, and positive leadership behaviors in all interactions.
• Collaborating closely with camp leadership to ensure program alignment and strong communication.
• Supporting community-building through shared meals, team challenges, group reflections, and social connection.
• Ensuring a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment where Fellows feel empowered to take risks, learn from challenges, and grow as leaders.

What Makes You a Great Fit

You’re a thoughtful mentor who enjoys helping teens step into leadership with confidence and purpose.

• Teen Leadership Experience – Experience mentoring, coaching, or teaching high school–aged students in leadership, education, camp, or youth development settings.
• Facilitation Skills – Comfortable leading workshops, group discussions, and reflective conversations that encourage insight and participation.
• Leadership Coach Mindset – Skilled at balancing guidance with independence, helping Fellows take ownership of their work and decisions.
• Strong Communicator – Clear, supportive communicator who provides constructive feedback and encourages thoughtful dialogue.
• Professional Role Model – Models accountability, integrity, organization, and positive workplace behaviors.
• Project-Based Learning Experience – Comfortable supporting students through planning, time management, problem-solving, and execution of longer-term projects.
• Collaborative Team Member – Works effectively with camp leadership, instructors, and operations staff.
• Supportive & Inclusive – Creates a welcoming environment that values youth voice, reflection, and diverse perspectives.
• Adaptable & Organized – Thrives in a fast-paced environment while keeping structure, expectations, and follow-through clear.

Schedule and Requirements

• Full on-site availability during the summer: June–August, Monday–Friday
  • Hours: Monday–Friday 8:30am–3:30pm daily, *8am Mondays 
  • Ability to commute to both:
    • 1301 Potomac School Rd, McLean, VA 22101
    • 3229 Sleepy Hollow Rd, Falls Church, VA 22042
• 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: $21-24/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.