Culinary Lead Camp Counselor - MD

Lead Culinary Counselor (ages 6-15)Who We AreAt 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 DoAs 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. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:Leading culinary programming for both younger and older campers, typically ages 6–15, with one age group per weekAdapting 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 levelsGuiding campers through multi-step recipes and collaborative cooking experiences tied to weekly themesEncouraging creativity by allowing age-appropriate customization, experimentation, and presentationStructuring projects to fit the weekly camp arc, ensuring successful completion and camper prideManaging supplies, maintaining a clean workspace, and preparing materials in advanceCollaborating with leadership to support smooth transitions and positive camper experiencesWhat Makes You a Great FitThis role is ideal for a culinary educator who enjoys teaching across developmental stages and creating inclusive, confidence-building kitchen experiences.You are:An adaptable instructor — comfortable teaching campers ages 7–16, adjusting tools, language, and expectations accordinglySafety-driven — confident teaching kitchen safety, food handling, and age-appropriate knife skillsOrganized and prepared — able to plan recipes, prep materials, and manage shared kitchen spacesEncouraging and patient — skilled at supporting beginners while challenging more experienced campersA clear communicator — calm, positive, and effective at giving step-by-step guidanceA collaborative team member — works closely with co-counselors and leadershipExperience in culinary education, camps, teaching kitchens, or youth programsFamiliarity with dietary accommodations or food allergy awarenessSchedule and RequirementsFull on-site availability during the summer: June–August, Monday–FridayHours: camp operates 8:30am–3:30pm daily *8am MondaysAbility to commute to: 5100 Edgemoor Lane, Bethesda, MD 20814Must be at least 21 years oldMust be up to date on all immunizations and willing to provide emergency health information upon hireAbility to lift 50 lbs, respond quickly to emergencies, and work in an active, outdoor environmentMust have valid First Aid & CPR certificationPerks and BenefitsPay range: $21-24/hr – exact rate is determined by state minimum and experienceFLSA Status: This is a seasonal full-time, exempt position under the FLSAPaid 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 higherAll required background checks and certifications fully reimbursedSummer Bonus: Earn an additional $40 per week for working six or more weeks with no absencesReferral Bonus: Earn $50 per hired referral, with no referral limitsDaily perks: Free snacks, coffee, and parking + Monday breakfastEmployee discounts on camp rates for family members, outdoor gear, art supplies, electronics, and moreCareer growth: Gain resume-building experience, letters of recommendation, and networking opportunitiesEqual Opportunity Employment StatementDEAN 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.Powered by JazzHR650odZV3VY