2027 DC Assistant Camp Director - Engagement Focused

DEAN Adventure Camps • Washington, DC

2d • Onsite

About The Position

At DEAN 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.

Requirements

• 2 years of experience working in summer camp leadership, education, recreation, or youth development, supporting programs serving 200+ children per week with a focus on mentoring peers, resolving conflicts, and building strong team morale among 40+ team members.
• Support, manage, and coach counselors, in tandem with the director, throughout the day
• Help identify performance concerns and provide real-time feedback, redirection, and support
• Reinforce DEAN expectations, procedures, culture, and standards
• Support SD to delegate responsibilities and keep the team moving effectively
• Support campers who need additional behavioral or emotional support
• Program coverage when needed (transitions, lunch/recess, arrival, breaks, dismissal, absences, or other areas based on daily needs)
• Balance structured programming with flexibility, ensuring both team members and campers feel supported.
• Comfortable with technology tools, such as Slack, Google Workspace and Airtable, to foster clear and uplifting communication across teams.
• Thrive in fast-paced environments and solve challenges with ease, without waiting to be asked.
• Bring a positive and motivating attitude. You are people-focused, motivating, and thrive on building connections. You inspire team members and campers to bring their best selves every day.
• Lead with empathy, patience, and clarity. You excel at conflict resolution, giving and accepting constructive feedback, and creating a supportive team culture.
• Adept at jumping into various hands-on activities during unforeseen circumstances/absences or team member breaks, including, but not limited to: STEAM: innovation labs, woodworking, sewing, fiber arts, and cooking.
• Engaging with our youngest “Discoverer” campers (aged 4–5) in STEAM, baking, and dance movement.
• 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.

Responsibilities

• Creating a positive camp culture that fosters a kind, inclusive team environment, ensuring strong morale and growth, plus effective collaboration to create a team that leaves camp stronger than they arrived.
• Lead themed weeks and engagement events like Friday showcase, scavenger hunts, and team-building activities — bringing each week’s theme to life with decorations, music, and engaging camper activities.
• Support morning assemblies by setting the tone for the day with cheers, team member spotlights, and camper recognition moments that reflect DEAN’s values of compassion, trust, growth, and creativity.
• Support team member development by mentoring team members, mediating conflicts, and modeling calm, confident, and inclusive leadership.
• Communicate clearly with 40+ seasonal team members, ensuring collaboration and consistency between departments and programs, as well as addressing parent needs as directed by the Site Director.
• Engage directly with campers across activities — assisting with transitions, supporting groups as needed, and maintaining a safe, positive environment.
• Oversee carpool and parent interactions to ensure a smooth, welcoming, and memorable experience that reflects DEAN’s reputation for care and excellence, being sure to assign energetic team members, keep an upbeat environment, and especially make Fridays shine with costumes, ice pops, and music.

Benefits

• Pay range: $1,175-1,225 per week
• Paid training: Pre-Summer remote training on: leadership, operations, and DEIB, plus in-person team and logistics training during the week of June 7th.
• All required background checks and certifications fully reimbursed.
• Referral Bonus : Earn $50 per hired referral , with no referral limits.
• Daily perks: Lunch, 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
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed