Lead Velocity Adventure 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 Velocity Adventure Counselor youll help create a safe exciting and high-energy environment where campers (ages 611) build confidence and skills through biking skateboarding climbing and outdoor exploration. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Teaching foundational and intermediate skills in biking skateboarding and obstacle course navigation with a focus on safety progression and fun.
• Leading geocaching adventures guiding campers in map reading compass basics and GPS use to develop teamwork problem-solving and outdoor navigation skills.
• Supervising climbing and obstacle course challenges encouraging campers to test limits while staying safe.
• Reinforcing proper equipment use and safety checks (helmets pads bike/skate maintenance climbing gear).
• Structuring activities so younger campers feel supported while older campers are challenged to push their skills further.
• Encouraging resilience and teamwork by framing activities as confidence-building adventures.
• Executing lesson plans according to DEAN Adventure Camps set curricula while fostering creativity by encouraging campers to explore set goals and celebrate progress.

• Supporting the Site Director in operating your designated program such as: attendance reporting supply management and documenting incidents.
• Fostering a welcoming space that celebrates diversity and inclusion.
• Managing groups with enthusiasm patience and creativity.

What Makes You a Great Fit

As a Lead Velocity Adventure Counselor you must be able to teach and display technical knowledge associated with adventure-based activities:

• Velocity Adventure
  • Biking & Skateboarding Knowledge of safe riding techniques balance stopping/turning and progressive skill development.
  • Obstacle Course & Climbing Ability to guide campers through challenges with proper spotting safety instruction and encouragement.
  • Geocaching & Outdoor Navigation Experience with map reading compasses and GPS-based scavenger hunts. Skilled at turning navigation into an engaging adventure for children.
• Safety-First Mindset Strong awareness of risk management equipment checks and teaching proper technique to prevent injury.
• Adaptable Teacher Skilled at turning outdoor adventures into fun challenges that build life skills like perseverance and teamwork.
• Youth Experience Experienced at motivating younger campers (6-11 years) with encouragement and play while challenging older campers to grow in confidence and independence.
• Mentor & Role Model You bring energy professionalism and creativity that inspire campers and staff alike.
• Problem-Solver You think on your feet helping counselors and campers overcome obstacles quickly and calmly.
• Team Player You excel at mentoring Assistant and Junior Counselors through strong leadership and communication. You are comfortable managing CITs.

Schedule and Requirements

• Full on-site availability during the summer: JuneAugust MondayFriday
  • Hours: MondayFriday 8:30am3:30pm 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: $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.