Lead Woodworking Counselor

About DEAN Adventure Camps

DEAN Adventure Camps offers transformative experiences for youth aged 7 to 16, fostering passion discovery, skill development, and character building through engaging summer programs. Founded on values of Compassion, Trust, Growth, and Creativity, the camp aims to nurture resilient, empathetic, and confident young individuals across multiple states including DC, MD, NJ, PA, and VA.

Role Overview

As the Lead Woodworking Counselor, you will oversee and deliver age-appropriate woodworking programs for campers between 7 and 16 years old within a collaborative studio setting. Your role involves creating tiered projects tailored to various skill levels, ensuring safety, and guiding campers through all phases of project creation from design to finish.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and manage woodworking projects ranging from simple builds like small boxes and toys for younger campers to complex creations such as stools and shelves for older participants.
• Implement and enforce workshop safety protocols, adapting supervision according to each camper's age and skills.
• Assist campers with planning, measuring, constructing, evaluating, and refining their projects at suitable learning paces.
• Encourage self-reliance in older campers while offering supportive, hands-on guidance to younger children.
• Maintain an organized, calm, and creative studio environment that facilitates collaboration and focus.
• Contribute to broader site functions including attendance tracking, management of materials, and communication with camp leadership.

Candidate Qualifications

• Proficient in hand-tool use, measuring, cutting, sanding, assembly, and finishing techniques with the ability to teach varying skill levels.
• Experienced in differentiated instruction for a wide age range (7-16 years), capable of modifying lessons and supervision accordingly.
• Committed to safety with a thorough understanding of age-appropriate tool use and risk management within a woodshop context.
• Patient and structured in teaching, able to simplify complex tasks and maintain engagement among younger campers.
• Strong leadership skills to mentor older campers in safe practices, independence, and craftsmanship.
• Resourceful and calm problem solver able to adapt plans when faced with material shortages or unexpected challenges.

Work Schedule and Requirements

• Full-time on-site work from June through August, Monday to Friday.
• Operational hours are 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM daily with 8:00 AM start on Mondays.
• Must be able to commute to the camp location at 3825 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC.
• Applicants must be at least 21 years old.
• Up-to-date immunizations required, with provision of emergency health details upon hire.
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds, promptly respond in emergency situations, and work outdoors actively.
• Possession of valid First Aid and CPR certifications is mandatory.

Compensation and Benefits

• The hourly wage ranges from $24 to $26, dependent on state minimums and the candidate's experience.
• This is a seasonal, full-time position classified as exempt under FLSA.
• Remote training is provided on safety, diversity, equity, inclusion, and management, plus in-person staff training before camp start; training pay is at least state minimum wage or $12 per hour.
• All background verification and required certifications will be reimbursed fully.
• A summer bonus of $20 per week is available for those who work six or more weeks without absences.
• Referral bonuses of $50 for each hired referral with no limit on number of referrals.
• Daily amenities include free snacks, coffee, and parking, plus Monday morning breakfast.
• Employee discounts apply to camp rates for family and various goods including outdoor gear, art supplies, and electronics.
• Opportunities for career development through resume building, recommendations, and networking within the organization.

Equal Opportunity Employer

DEAN Adventure Camps is committed to equal opportunity and values diversity in its workforce. Hiring choices are made solely based on qualifications relevant to the role, ensuring non-discrimination on grounds including race, gender, age, disability, or any legally protected status.

Application Notes

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis; early application is advised to secure a position for the summer season.