Job Description

Lead ‘You’ve Got Talent’ Counselor

Who We Are

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 .

What You’ll Do

As a Lead Performance Arts Counselor for the You’ve Got Talent program, you’ll lead campers ages 6–15 through playful, confidence-building performance experiences. You’ve Got Talent blends performance, character work, movement, and creative design – introducing campers to stage presence, self-expression, and age-appropriate visual storytelling. This role supports sites where one Lead teaches different age groups in separate weeks, requiring thoughtful adaptation of activities and group management. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Facilitating performance-based activities such as face paint or SFX makeup, improv games, movement and dance, character creation, simple magic, and performance challenges.
• Adjusting instruction so younger campers focus on imaginative play and participation, while older campers explore performance structure, stage presence, and collaboration.
• Creating a supportive, low-pressure environment where campers feel safe taking creative risks and expressing themselves.
• Leading rehearsals and preparation for weekly showcases or Friday Finales, adapted to each age group’s comfort level.
• Teaching foundational performance skills such as projection, movement, expression, and teamwork in age-appropriate ways.
• Modeling encouragement, confidence, and respect, reinforcing that performance is about effort and expression—not perfection.
• Managing transitions, energy levels, and group dynamics across varied ages.
• Supporting assistants and CITs in maintaining a positive, inclusive group experience.

What Makes You a Great Fit

This role is ideal for an energetic leader who loves performance arts and can engage both younger children and teens with confidence and care. You are:

• Experienced or interested in performance arts , such as face paint or SFX makeup, theater, improv, dance, music, or creative movement.
• Comfortable working with ages 6–15 , adapting tone, structure, and expectations to meet developmental needs.
• Strong in group management , able to lead energetic activities while maintaining emotional safety and inclusion.
• An encouraging communicator , helping campers build confidence and celebrate one another’s efforts.
• Flexible and creative , able to modify activities for different comfort levels, abilities, and group sizes.
• A positive role model , modeling courage, kindness, and collaboration.

• A team-oriented leader , supporting assistants and helping maintain a joyful, organized program flow.

Schedule and 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 .

Perks and 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.

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

DEAN Adventure Camps is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from diverse candidates. Hiring decisions are based on a candidate’s qualifications as they relate to the position’s requirements and are made without regard to race, sex, national origin, color, age, disability, veteran status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, religion, or any other category protected by applicable law.

Join our team and make a difference this summer! Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis — apply early to secure your spot.

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