Lead Velocity Adventure 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 Velocity Adventure Counselor, you’ll help create a safe, exciting, and high-energy environment where campers (ages 6–11) build confidence and skills through biking, skateboarding, climbing, and outdoor exploration. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Teaching foundational and intermediate skills in biking, skateboarding, and obstacle course navigation with a focus on safety, progression, and fun.
• Leading geocaching adventures, guiding campers in map reading, compass basics, and GPS use to develop teamwork, problem-solving, and outdoor navigation skills.
• Supervising climbing and obstacle course challenges, encouraging campers to test limits while staying safe.
• Reinforcing proper equipment use and safety checks (helmets, pads, bike/skate maintenance, climbing gear).
• Structuring activities so younger campers feel supported while older campers are challenged to push their skills further.
• Encouraging resilience and teamwork by framing activities as confidence-building adventures.
• Executing lesson plans according to DEAN Adventure Camps’ set curricula, while fostering creativity by encouraging campers to explore, set goals, and celebrate progress.

• 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 Velocity Adventure Counselor, you must be able to teach and display technical knowledge associated with adventure-based activities:

• Velocity Adventure
  • Biking & Skateboarding – Knowledge of safe riding techniques, balance, stopping/turning, and progressive skill development.
  • Obstacle Course & Climbing – Ability to guide campers through challenges with proper spotting, safety instruction, and encouragement.
  • Geocaching & Outdoor Navigation – Experience with map reading, compasses, and GPS-based scavenger hunts. Skilled at turning navigation into an engaging adventure for children.
• Safety-First Mindset – Strong awareness of risk management, equipment checks, and teaching proper technique to prevent injury.
• Adaptable Teacher – Skilled at turning outdoor adventures into fun challenges that build life skills like perseverance and teamwork.
• Youth Experience – Experienced at motivating younger campers (6-11 years) with encouragement and play while challenging older campers to grow in confidence and independence.
• 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: camp operates 7am–6pm, leads typically work 35 hours per week within this timeframe, generally 8am-4pm
  • Ability to commute to: 370 Lancaster Ave, Haverford, PA 19041
• 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.