Safari Camp Aide

General Description

The seasonal full‑time Safari Camp Instructor leads groups of campers in the Safari Camp program as part of the Camp Staff. Days run June 17–August 18, Monday through Friday, most weeks. Camp staff must be available for at least eight weeks of camp plus training dates. Anticipated date conflicts within the camp season should be shared at the time of interview.

All candidates are required to attend paid team training dates outlined below.

• Thursday, May 21 5‑9 p.m.
• Wednesday, May 27 5‑9 p.m.
• Saturday, May 30 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
• Wednesday, June 10 5‑9 p.m.
• Sunday, June 14 9‑5 p.m.
• Monday/Tuesday, June 15–16 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

During training, camp staff will learn to facilitate programs by reviewing and practicing shared schedules, lesson plans, and program materials.

• Work collaboratively with a Camp Instructor to support leading groups of 10‑14 youth in grades K‑12 for weeklong and two‑day camps throughout the Zoo on hikes, hands‑on activities, art, games and singing.
• Greet guests, caregivers and program participants with enthusiasm and provide information to enhance each person’s Zoo experience and provide campers with a positive and memorable camp program.
• Facilitate community building with campers and help create a welcoming and inclusive environment amongst the group by being actively engaged with campers throughout activities and free play.
• Provide mentorship and support task direction to a Counselor‑in‑Training (CIT) teen volunteer.
• Be familiar with all facets of the Zoo in order to answer questions properly.
• Contribute to a positive, energetic, and safe experience for campers, colleagues, and guests.
• Must be available for a weekday work schedule, usually 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
• Staff may also be scheduled to cover up to two weeks of extended care (shifts either 7:15 a.m.–3:45 p.m. or 9:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.).
• Assist with program setup and breakdown.
• All other responsibilities and tasks as assigned.

• Must be 18 years or older as of June 1, 2026.
• Completion of a High School Diploma or equivalent with two years of experience in a zoological institution or a youth organization, or enrollment in or completion of a Bachelor’s degree in Education, General Science, Zoology, Biology, or other related fields.
• Experience working with youth in formal or informal learning environments preferred.

• Familiarity with biology, environmental science, and animal welfare concepts or a willingness to learn more.
• Must learn to use a computer, printer, two‑way radio, and iPad.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Must be reasonable, flexible and use common sense to make sound decisions.
• Must have the ability to think quickly and identify solutions to address issues before they escalated and report issues and challenges to supervisors and camp directors.
• Work collaboratively with camp directors, supervisors and camp team and be open and flexible to trying and sharing new ideas and feedback.
• Must be professional and have a positive, friendly, social disposition.
• Must clear a background check before hire.

Schedule that will include mainly weekday shifts and the potential for occasional evening shifts. Camp is held mainly outdoors in a variety of weather conditions through the summer.

This position requires sitting, standing, walking, bending, and stooping for extended periods. The employee must walk three to five miles a day and lift and move 25‑40 pounds. The noise level in the work environment is moderate. The employee must be able to perform the job’s essential functions satisfactorily, with or without accommodations. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.

Just as we value and celebrate biodiversity, the DZS celebrates the diversity of our human community. We are committed to ensuring that our programs and facilities are fully accessible to create a welcoming and inclusive workplace for all.