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: camp operates 8:30am-4pm with 8am Mondays
  • Ability to commute to: 5100 Edgemoor Ln, Bethesda, MD
• 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