Trailblazers Lead Camp Counselor

Lead Trailblazers 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 Trailblazers Counselor , you’ll guide rising 1st–4th graders through a dynamic, rotation-based day camp experience designed to spark curiosity, confidence, and connection. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Leading campers through four daily activity blocks —Outdoor Adventure, Innovation Lab, Art, and Culinary Arts—ensuring smooth transitions and consistent engagement throughout the day.
• Facilitating developmentally appropriate, hands-on activities that encourage exploration, creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving.
• Creating a warm, structured environment where campers feel supported trying new activities and discovering emerging interests.
• Modeling and reinforcing collaboration, kindness, care for the environment, and respect for peers.
• Adapting activities as needed to meet varying energy levels, interests, weather conditions, and camper needs.
• Supporting positive group management during transitions, meals, and movement across campus.
• Collaborating closely with co-counselors and program leaders to ensure consistency, safety, and alignment across rotations.
• Supporting the Site Director with attendance, supplies, and documentation as needed.
• Celebrating effort and growth , helping campers reflect on what they’ve tried and learned by the end of each session.

What Makes You a Great Fit

You’re an energetic, adaptable educator who enjoys variety and helping kids discover what lights them up. This role is ideal for counselors who enjoy variety, movement, and helping younger campers explore multiple interests in one joyful, structured program.

• Elementary Youth Experience – Experience working with children in grades 1–4, with an understanding of their developmental needs.
• Strong Group Leadership – Confident managing groups through frequent transitions while maintaining a positive, calm, and engaging tone.
• Hands-On Facilitator – Comfortable leading experiential activities across multiple domains, including outdoor play, creative arts, simple design challenges, and kid-friendly cooking.
• Adaptable & Flexible – Thrives in a rotating schedule and can pivot plans when weather, energy levels, or camper needs change.
• Clear Communicator – Models positive behavior, teamwork, and respectful communication for campers.
• Collaborative Team Member – Works effectively with co-counselors and program leaders to create a cohesive camper experience.
• Organized & Proactive – Keeps activities running smoothly with thoughtful preparation and follow-through.
• Patient & Encouraging – Supports campers as they try new things, build confidence, and develop resilience.
• Safety-Minded – Committed to camper well-being, supervision, and emotional safety at all times.

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.