Junior Day Camp Counselor - Washington D.C.

The Position

At Headfirst, we design fun, intentional, and transformational camp experiences where every camper feels seen, known, and celebrated. Growth does not happen by accident—it happens by design. Through thoughtfully planned activities and trained staff, we create what we call Headfirst Moments when a camper tries something new, pushes through fear, and realizes, “I can do it.”

Headfirst Summer Camp Day & Junior Day Camp Counselors will lead campers in a pre‑written, theme‑based curriculum as our youngest campers try new things and experience camp through the power of play. We provide the training, curriculum and daily camp schedules along with all equipment for a successful day. You will bring camp to life with your enthusiasm, dedication and unmatched energy.

3‑6 years old

Art, story time, swimming, sports and games, music and movement, moon bounce, playground, STEM.

Animals, superheroes, insects, outer space.

• In‑season (late June through mid August): 7:45 am – 3:30 pm, Monday – Friday
• Pre‑season (early June): select weekends for training and site preparation

$17.95 / hour

• Bring Camp to Life & lead a group of 12–16 campers with a co‑counselor through a planned schedule.
• Teach pre‑written curriculum and engage campers during break times.
• Implement Headfirst’s safety protocols—supervision, bathrooms, emergency medications, and behavior management.
• Lead music and movement, story time, sports and games, moon bounce, bathroom & sunscreen breaks, transitions, lunch & snack.
• Support specialized staff during art, STEM, swim, morning and afternoon program meetings.
• Execute morning and afternoon carpool as a key player, welcoming each family by name with fantastic dance moves and coordinated procedures.
• Nurture physical, social & emotional safety by supporting campers in their development through hands‑on activities.
• Represent Headfirst for families & facility partners by being enthusiastic, helpful and uniformed.
• Be an active member of the camp team—arrive on time, communicate schedule changes, stay flexible, and support other programs.
• Handle curveballs with a “How can I help?” mentality, focusing on camper experience and team success.

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• If you are 16–17 years old, please apply for another role.

• Work around small children—including sitting, standing, running, climbing and stairs for the full day.
• Work in hot and outdoor environments while actively supervising campers and participating in dynamic activities for extended periods.
• Lift and carry up to 30 pounds occasionally.
• Adhere to the Cell‑Phone Free policy—putting away phones in a locked pouch during your shift.

Headfirst Summer Camps is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and inclusivity across our Headfirst community, and we strongly encourage individuals from under‑represented groups and those who might need reasonable accommodation to apply.

Headfirst delivers thoughtfully designed, high‑quality summer and youth experiences built to elevate potential and exceed expectations. For over 25 years we partner with families, schools and organizations to create environments where kids feel supported, challenged and confident trying new things. Headfirst’s programs are intentionally structured, and staff are trained to spot, create and celebrate breakthrough moments—Headfirst Moments when a camper pushes past fear, tries something new or surprises themselves.

We believe great experiences are built on relationships, genuine connection and thoughtful details, and our professional headquarters team supports seasonal staff with training, systems and clear expectations so camps run smoothly.

When you join Headfirst, you’re part of a team that takes pride in delivering meaningful work, high standards and unforgettable summers.