Lead Woodworking Counselor

About DEAN Adventure Camps

DEAN Adventure Camps is dedicated to providing transformative experiences for young people, fostering their passions, exploring possibilities, achieving goals, and embarking on adventures. We aim to develop character and lifelong skills in an environment guided by compassion, trust, growth, and creativity. Our vision is to cultivate resilient, compassionate, and confident individuals who positively impact their communities. We operate across DC, MD, NJ, PA, and VA, offering comprehensive summer programs.

About the Role

As a Lead Woodworking Counselor, you will be responsible for guiding campers aged 7 to 16 through woodworking activities in a shared studio. You will adapt instruction to suit different age groups, enabling younger campers to build foundational skills and older campers to undertake more complex projects. This role requires a strong emphasis on safety, project management, and fostering camper independence and creativity.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead woodworking projects suitable for various age and skill levels, from simple builds for younger campers to more intricate designs for older ones.
• Instruct and enforce essential woodshop safety protocols, adjusting supervision based on camper age, skill, and tool usage.
• Assist campers in the planning, execution, and refinement of their woodworking projects, ensuring age-appropriate pacing.
• Encourage self-reliance in older campers while providing close support and motivation to younger participants.
• Cultivate an organized and focused workshop atmosphere that promotes creativity and collaboration.
• Contribute to general site operations, including managing attendance, organizing materials, and communicating with leadership.

What You'll Bring

• Proficiency in teaching woodworking techniques, including hand-tool operation, measurement, cutting, assembly, and finishing, adaptable to different skill levels.
• Experience in differentiating instruction for mixed-age groups (7-16), modifying projects and expectations accordingly.
• A strong commitment to safety, with a thorough understanding of age-appropriate tool usage and risk management in a workshop setting.
• Patience and the ability to structure lessons clearly, keeping younger campers engaged and focused.
• A mentor-like approach to leadership, encouraging older campers to demonstrate safe practices and craftsmanship.
• A proactive and creative problem-solving attitude to address challenges with project plans or materials.

Schedule and Requirements

• Full-time commitment required from June to August, Monday to Friday.
• Working hours are typically 8:30 am to 4:00 pm, with an earlier start on Mondays at 8:00 am.
• Must be able to commute to the Washington, DC location.
• Applicants must be at least 21 years old.
• Up-to-date immunization records and willingness to provide emergency health information are necessary.
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs and respond effectively in emergency situations.
• Valid First Aid & CPR certification is mandatory.

Perks and Benefits

• Competitive hourly wage ranging from $24 to $28, based on experience and state minimum wage.
• Paid training covering safety, DEI, and classroom management, plus in-person training before camp. Training is compensated at the higher of state minimum wage or $12/hr.
• Reimbursement for all required background checks and certifications.
• A summer bonus of $40 per week for working six or more weeks without absences.
• A referral bonus of $50 for each successful referral, with no limit.
• Daily amenities include complimentary snacks, coffee, and parking, with breakfast provided on Mondays.
• Employee discounts on camp fees for family members, as well as on outdoor gear, art supplies, and electronics.
• Opportunities for professional development, including resume enhancement, letters of recommendation, and networking.

Equal Opportunity Employment

DEAN Adventure Camps is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. All hiring decisions are based on qualifications and are made without regard to race, sex, national origin, color, age, disability, veteran status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, religion, or any other protected category.