Assistant Camp Director | Culture Catalyst | Washington, DC

DEAN Adventure Camps • Washington, DC

1d • Onsite

About The Position

DEAN Camps is hiring an Assistant Site Director of Culture & Engagement for its Washington, DC camp. Working closely with the Site Director, this role helps create a positive, inclusive camp culture where team members feel supported and campers enjoy creative, caring, and engaging experiences. The position supports team morale and development, camp-wide events, daily operations, and communication among seasonal staff, campers, and families.

This is a full-time, on-site seasonal position running June 14 through August 13. Camp operates from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The role requires commuting to 3825 Wisconsin Ave, Washington, DC 20016, working in an active outdoor environment, lifting up to 50 pounds, and responding quickly to emergencies. Candidates must be current on immunizations, provide emergency health information upon hire, and hold valid First Aid and CPR certifications.

Requirements

• At least 2 years of experience in summer camp leadership, education, recreation, or youth development.
• Experience supporting programs serving more than 200 children per week and working with teams of more than 40 members, with an emphasis on mentoring peers, resolving conflicts, and building team morale.
• Valid First Aid and CPR certification.
• Must be up to date on immunizations and willing to provide emergency health information upon hire.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds, respond quickly to emergencies, and work in an active outdoor environment.
• Ability to commute to 3825 Wisconsin Ave, Washington, DC 20016.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including empathy, patience, clarity, conflict resolution, and giving and receiving constructive feedback.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-energy environment and adapt quickly to changing needs.
• Comfort using technology tools such as Slack, Google Workspace, and Airtable.

Nice To Haves

• Experience as a camp program director, recreation director, youth program leader, social worker, guidance counselor, or behavioral specialist.
• Ability to lead or support hands-on STEAM activities such as innovation labs, woodworking, sewing, fiber arts, and cooking.
• Ability to engage young campers aged 4–5 in STEAM, baking, and dance movement.

Responsibilities

• Create and foster a kind, inclusive camp culture that supports team morale, growth, and effective collaboration.
• Lead themed weeks and engagement events, including Friday showcases, scavenger hunts, and team-building activities; use decorations, music, and camper activities to bring themes to life.
• Support morning assemblies with cheers, team member spotlights, and camper recognition that reflects DEAN’s values.
• Mentor team members, mediate conflicts, and model calm, confident, and inclusive leadership.
• Communicate with seasonal team members to promote collaboration and consistency across departments and programs, and address parent needs as directed by the Site Director.
• Engage directly with campers, assist with transitions, support groups, and maintain a safe, positive environment.
• Oversee carpool and parent interactions, assigning energetic team members and maintaining a welcoming atmosphere; make Fridays especially engaging with costumes, ice pops, and music.
• Support, manage, and coach counselors in partnership with the Site Director throughout the day.
• Help identify performance concerns and provide real-time feedback, redirection, and support.
• Reinforce DEAN expectations, procedures, culture, and standards.
• Support the Site Director in delegating responsibilities and keeping the team moving effectively.
• Support campers who need additional behavioral or emotional assistance.
• Provide program coverage for transitions, lunch or recess, arrival, breaks, dismissal, absences, and other daily needs.
• Lead hands-on activities when needed, including STEAM, creative play, and activities for Discoverer campers aged 4–5.

Benefits

• Paid pre-summer remote training on leadership, operations, and DEIB, plus in-person team and logistics training during the week of June 7.
• Reimbursement for all required background checks and certifications.
• $50 bonus for each hired referral, with no referral limit.
• Daily lunch, snacks, coffee, and parking, plus Monday breakfast.
• Employee discounts on camp rates for family members, outdoor gear, art supplies, electronics, and more.
• Resume-building experience, letters of recommendation, and networking opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed