Lead Woodworking Counselor (ages 7-16)

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 Woodworking Counselor, you’ll guide campers ages 7–16 through developmentally appropriate woodworking experiences within a shared studio environment. You’ll differentiate instruction so younger campers build confidence with foundational skills while older campers take on more complex, multi-step projects. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Design and lead tiered woodworking projects, offering simpler builds (e.g., small boxes, signage, toy builds) for younger campers and more advanced constructions (e.g., stools, shelves, keepsake boxes) for older campers.
• Teach and reinforce woodshop safety practices, adjusting supervision levels based on age, skill, and tool use.
• Support campers in planning, measuring, building, testing, and refining their projects at an age-appropriate pace.
• Foster independence in older campers while providing close guidance and encouragement for younger builders.
• Maintain a calm, organized workshop environment that supports focus, creativity, and collaboration.
• Support site operations as needed, including attendance, materials management, and communication with leadership.

What Makes You a Great Fit

You’re confident teaching a wide age range and skilled at differentiating instruction so all campers feel challenged, supported, and successful.

• Woodworking Expertise – Comfortable teaching hand-tool use, measuring, cutting, sanding, assembly, and finishing techniques across varying skill levels.
• Differentiated Instruction – Experienced in working with mixed-age groups, adapting projects, expectations, and supervision for campers ages 7–16.
• Safety-First Mindset – Strong understanding of age-appropriate tool use, shop setup, and risk management.
• Patient & Structured Educator – Able to break complex skills into clear steps while keeping younger campers engaged and focused.
• Mentor-Style Leadership – Encourages older campers to model safe practices, independence, and craftsmanship.
• Problem-Solver – Calm and creative when plans shift, materials run low, or projects need re-thinking.

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 $20 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.