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

• Leading creative projects that combine writing and art, such as illustrated stories, comic strips, short plays, and collaborative murals.
• Teaching art techniques (drawing, illustration, perspective, shading, mixed media) in an age-appropriate, engaging way.
• Guiding storytelling and writing exercises that build literacy and confidence, including character creation, poetry, and group storytelling.
• Encouraging personal expression while reinforcing respect for peers’ ideas and creations.
• Designing lessons that balance daily progress with camper excitement, ensuring projects are completed within a week and aligned with DEAN curricula.
• Supporting the Site Director in operating your designated program, such as: attendance reporting, supply management, and documenting incidents.
• 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 Art & Lit Counselor, you must be able to teach and display technical knowledge associated with the following subject:

• Art & Lit
  • Creative Writing & Storytelling – Knowledge of age-appropriate writing techniques, including plot, character development, and dialogue.
  • Drawing & Illustration – Ability to teach artistic styles such as shading, perspective, and character design.
  • Mixed Media Projects – Comfortable blending visual and written arts to create multidimensional projects that keep campers engaged.
• Adaptable Teacher – Skilled at keeping elementary-age campers (7–11) engaged with structured lessons balanced by opportunities for imagination. Patient and encouraging, turning mistakes into learning moments.
• Youth Experience – Experienced in group management, with the ability to keep projects on track while supporting different skill levels. Comfortable leading discussions, offering constructive feedback, and celebrating camper creativity.
• Mentor & Role Model – You bring energy, professionalism, and creativity that inspire campers and staff alike.
• 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: 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.