Zoo Camp Operations Lead

The Santa Barbara Zoo is looking for a Zoo Camp Operations Lead to support our camp programs.

Position Status: Part-Time, Seasonal, Hourly, Non-Exempt

Schedule: Monday - Friday

Compensation: $20.00 - $22.00 per hour

To be considered, applicants must complete the Zoo's Official Employment Application on the next page.

Under the general direction of the Education Supervisor:
Formal Programs and Education Team, the Zoo Camp Operations Lead promotes the Zoo and its mission through the planning, coordination, and daily operation of Santa Barbara Zoo’s camp programs. This role works closely with the Camp Director to ensure high-quality, safe, and engaging educational experiences that inspire a love of wildlife, conservation, and the natural world. Leadership to camp staff, supports curriculum implementation, coordinates daily logistics, and serves as a key point of contact for zoo camp stakeholders.

• Assist with planning, organizing, and executing Zoo Camp programs for children of varying age groups.
• Support daily camp operations through scheduling assistance, supply management, and animal experiences.
• Step in to lead camp activities or supervise groups as needed to ensure smooth program delivery.
• Assist with critical program transitions and daily communication with families.
• Support the training and supervision of camp educators and teen volunteers.
• Model best practices in behavior management, child engagement, and outdoor education.
• Provide feedback, mentorship, and real-time coaching to camp staff and teen volunteers.
• Help foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative camp team culture.
• Serve as a professional and welcoming point of contact for campers, families, and zoo staff.

• Assist with inventory management, attendance tracking, incident reports, and program documentation.
• Support evaluation efforts by collecting feedback from staff, campers, and families.
• Assist with special events, extended care programs, or additional education initiatives as needed.

• Support implementation of age-appropriate, inquiry-based curriculum aligned with Santa Barbara Zoo’s conservation and education goals.
• Assist with adapting activities for different learning styles and abilities.
• Ensure educational content is accurate, engaging, and aligned with zoo messaging.

• Other duties as assigned to maintain efficient and quality Zoo operations.

• Greets every guest with a smile.
• Thanks guests for supporting/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, reporting unsafe or unsightly conditions.
• Associates with guests to assist and share information.
• Responds to all guest inquiries, complaints, and comments according to Zoo guest relations procedures.
• Maintains a clean neat appearance and adheres to the Zoo’s uniform dress code.
• Takes responsibility for staying informed about happenings at the Zoo, such as reading employee communications and attending meetings.
• Reflects the qualities outlined in the Guest Relations Statement, the Zoo’s Core Values, and the Employee Pledge.
• Applies and exemplifies “green” (sustainable) practices whenever possible.
• Other miscellaneous duties as required.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements and environmental characteristics described below are representative of the knowledge, skill, ability, and working and physical elements required of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Minimum 2 years of college coursework in life sciences, zoology, education, or environmental sciences, child development, or equivalent experience preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience working in youth camps, outdoor education, informal education, or similar settings.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and…