Woodworking Lead Camp Counselor

DEAN Adventure Camps • McLean, VA

18h • $21 - $24 • Onsite

About The Position

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.

Requirements

• 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.
• Full on-site availability during the summer: June–August, Monday–Friday
• Hours: Monday–Friday 8:30am–3:30pm daily, 8am Mondays
• Ability to commute to both: 1301 Potomac School Rd, McLean, VA 22101 3229 Sleepy Hollow Rd, Falls Church, VA 22042
• 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Benefits

• Pay range: $ 21-24/hr – exact rate is determined by state minimum and experience.
• 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
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed