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 adventuresall 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 Youll Do

As a Lead Trailblazers Counselor youll guide rising 1st4th 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 blocksOutdoor Adventure Innovation Lab Art and Culinary Artsensuring 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 theyve tried and learned by the end of each session.

What Makes You a Great Fit

Youre 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 14 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: JuneAugust MondayFriday
  • Hours: camp operates 7am6pm leads typically work 35 hours per week within this timeframe generally 8am-4pm
  • Ability to commute to: 2500 Main St Lawrenceville NJ 08648
• 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 candidates qualifications as they relate to the positions 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.