Culinary Lead Camp Counselor - MD

DEAN Adventure Camps • Bethesda, MD

2d • $21 - $24 • Onsite

About The Position

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 . As a Lead Culinary Counselor (Multi-Age) , you’ll facilitate hands-on culinary experiences for campers across multiple age groups, teaching different groups week-to-week based on site needs. You’ll adapt recipes, tools, and expectations to ensure campers of all ages feel safe, successful, and excited to cook.

Requirements

• Full on-site availability during the summer: June–August, Monday–Friday
• Hours: camp operates 8:30am–3:30pm daily 8am Mondays
• Ability to commute to: 5100 Edgemoor Lane, Bethesda, MD 20814
• 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 .

Nice To Haves

• Experience in culinary education, camps, teaching kitchens, or youth programs.
• Familiarity with dietary accommodations or food allergy awareness.

Responsibilities

• Leading culinary programming for both younger and older campers , typically ages 6–15, with one age group per week.
• Adapting recipes and techniques so younger campers focus on foundational skills (measuring, mixing, safety), while older campers engage in more complex cooking (knife skills, timing, presentation).
• Teaching and reinforcing kitchen safety, hygiene, and organization across all age levels.
• Guiding campers through multi-step recipes and collaborative cooking experiences tied to weekly themes.
• Encouraging creativity by allowing age-appropriate customization, experimentation, and presentation.
• Structuring projects to fit the weekly camp arc, ensuring successful completion and camper pride.
• Managing supplies, maintaining a clean workspace, and preparing materials in advance.
• Collaborating with leadership to support smooth transitions and positive camper experiences.

Benefits

• Pay range: $ 21-24/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.

What This Job Offers

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