Assistant Camp Director | Culture Catalyst | Washington, DC

DEAN Adventure Camps • Washington, DC

2d • $1,175 - $1,225 • Onsite

About The Position

DEAN Camps is hiring an Assistant Site Director of Culture & Engagement for its Washington, DC summer camp. Working closely with the Site Director, this role helps create a supportive, energetic, inclusive camp culture for seasonal team members and campers. The Assistant Site Director strengthens team morale, supports staff development, coordinates camp-wide events, assists with daily programming, and helps ensure campers and families have a safe, welcoming experience.

The role involves coaching and supporting counselors, contributing to themed weeks and engagement events, supporting morning assemblies, communicating with seasonal staff, and helping with camper activities and transitions. It also includes overseeing carpool and parent interactions, and providing program coverage when needed. The position is full-time, on-site, and seasonal, running June 14 through August 13. Camp operates from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The role is based at 3825 Wisconsin Ave, Washington, DC 20016.

Requirements

• At least 2 years of experience in summer camp leadership, education, recreation, or youth development.
• Experience supporting programs serving 200 or more children per week, with a focus on mentoring peers, resolving conflicts, and building morale among teams of 40 or more.
• Valid First Aid and CPR certification.
• Must be up to date on all 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, people, and conflict-resolution skills, with the ability to give and accept constructive feedback.
• Ability to use technology tools such as Slack, Google Workspace, and Airtable.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-energy environment and adapt to changing needs.

Nice To Haves

• Experience as a camp program director, recreation director, youth program leader, social worker, guidance counselor, or behavioral specialist.
• Experience leading or participating in STEAM activities such as innovation labs, woodworking, sewing, fiber arts, and cooking.
• Experience engaging young children aged 4–5 in STEAM, baking, and dance movement.

Responsibilities

• Create a positive, inclusive camp culture that supports team morale, growth, and collaboration.
• Lead themed weeks and engagement events, including Friday showcases, scavenger hunts, and team-building activities.
• Bring weekly themes to life with decorations, music, and engaging camper activities.
• 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.
• Support, manage, and coach counselors in coordination with the Site Director.
• Identify performance concerns and provide real-time feedback, redirection, and support.
• Reinforce DEAN expectations, procedures, culture, and standards, and help the Site Director delegate responsibilities.
• Communicate with seasonal team members to support collaboration and consistency across departments and programs.
• Address parent needs as directed by the Site Director.
• Engage directly with campers, assist with transitions, support groups, and maintain a safe, positive environment.
• Provide program coverage as needed, including during arrival, lunch and recess, breaks, dismissal, transitions, absences, or other daily needs.
• Support campers who need additional behavioral or emotional support.
• Oversee carpool and parent interactions, assigning energetic team members and helping create an upbeat experience, especially on Fridays.
• Step into hands-on activities as needed, including STEAM activities and activities for Discoverer campers aged 4–5.

Benefits

• Paid pre-summer remote training in 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 per hired referral, with no referral limits.
• Daily lunch, snacks, coffee, and parking, plus Monday breakfast.
• Employee discounts on camp rates for family members, outdoor gear, art supplies, electronics, and more.
• Career growth opportunities, including 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