Educator - Zoo Camp; Seasonal Consideration

Educator – Zoo Camp (Seasonal) [For Future Consideration]

We are looking for enthusiastic educators to join our team for seasonal camp programs. This role is fully outdoors, requiring walking on the zoo grounds in all weather conditions.

Position Status: Part‑time, seasonal, hourly, non‑exempt

Compensation: $18.00 per hour

Schedule: Seasonal position – up to 16‑40 hours per week during school breaks, varying during the school year

Camp Seasons:

• Spring Camp:
  March 24 – March 28
• Summer Camp:
  June 16 – August 15 (commit to a minimum of 6 of the 9 weeks)
• Fall Camp:
  November 24–26 & 28
• Winter Camp:
  December 22 – January 2 (no camp on Christmas Day 12/25 or New Year’s Day 1/1)

SUMMARY

Under the general direction of the Education Manager and the Education Team, the Zoo Camp Educator promotes the Zoo and its mission by implementing tour Zoo Camps.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Supervise groups of up to 15 children while delivering camp curriculum in an engaging, age‑appropriate manner for the 3‑13 age range.
• Lead environmental and animal science activities, such as hands‑on learning activities, games, crafts, stories, and songs.
• Supervise and ensure the safety and well‑being of the assigned group.

SECONDARY DUTIES

• Perform additional duties as assigned to maintain efficient and quality zoo operations.
• Greets all guests with a smile.
• Thanks guests for visiting the Zoo.
• Answers phone calls, voicemails, and e‑mails promptly.
• Ensures the Zoo’s presentation standards for cleanliness and maintenance are met by keeping work areas clean, picking up trash, and reporting unsafe or unsightly conditions.
• Assists guests by sharing information.
• Maintains a clean, neat appearance and adheres to the Zoo’s uniform dress code.
• Stays informed about happenings at the Zoo through employee communications and meetings.
• Reflects the qualities outlined in the Guest Relations Statement and the Employee Pledge.

POSITION CRITERIA

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and Experience

• Minimum 2 years of college coursework in life sciences, zoology, education, or environmental sciences, or equivalent experience (preferred).
• Minimum 6 months of experience in informal presentations.

License, Certification, or Preferred Qualifications

• Prefer experience in an environmental education setting.
• Successful completion of a Department of Justice background check.
• First Aid and CPR certification required.
• TB tests and tetanus vaccinations as necessary.
• Authorized to work in the United States.
• At this time, the Zoo does not sponsor employment or internship visas.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Basic knowledge of biology and zoology preferred.
• Ability to organize, plan, collaborate, and implement educational presentations.
• Skilled in improvisation.
• Energetic and engaging personality.
• Ability to present educational programs to diverse audiences and large groups.
• Ability to envision and implement innovative solutions and ideas.
• Ability to contribute to the creative process.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge of computer software including word processing and database programs.
• Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, and guests.
• Ability to exercise safe work habits.
• Awareness, sensitivity to, and empathy with animals.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Must be able to lift 50 pounds occasionally and 10 or fewer pounds frequently.
• Ability to exert a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly push, pull, or otherwise move objects.
• Ability to run, kneel, sit on the ground, squat, and stand for long periods.
• Ability to negotiate the zoo work environment, including behind‑the‑scenes, lawns, gravel, hilltop, and attic storage.
• Involves walking outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Must be physically able to operate a variety of machines and equipment, including electric carts, telephones, printers, two‑way radios, projectors, and copiers.
• Must be physically able to work outdoors most of the day.

Tools Used

• Two‑way radios
• Electric cart
• Personal computer and software (Word, Excel, Outlook)
• Printer
• Telephone system
• Bio Facts and various learning‑based materials
• Wagons

You must also complete the Zoo’s Official Employment Application on the next page to be considered for the position.

The Zoo reserves the right to revise this job description at any time. The job description does not constitute an employment contract and does not guarantee employment for any specified period. The job description does not in any way alter the at‑will employment relationship. At this time, the Zoo does not sponsor employment or internship visas.