Department: Education
Direct Supervisor: Director of Education & Visitor Studies
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Working Hours: Up to 40 hours per week Monday- Friday from late June-August, with limited hours for training in May and June.
JOB SUMMARY
Camp counselors lead educational and engaging camp programs for children ages 3-12. Successful applicants will have experience working with children ages 3-12 and a very strong interest in engaging campers in learning about the natural world and inspiring them to become advocates for wildlife and wild places. They will demonstrate excellent guest relations and public speaking skills, have passion for environmental education, and be knowledgeable about best practices in teaching and learning.
DUTIES
- Facilitate camp experiences for children ages 3-12, including creative projects, science activities, games, guided Zoo explorations, and animal-related experiences.
- Prepare and organize creative projects and other activities for camp.
- Complete check in/out procedures, interact with parents, and facilitate relationships among campers.
- Participate in training and professional development opportunities.
- Maintain good working relationships with teammates and other Zoo staff.
- Communicate clearly and efficiently, in person, on the radio, and through writing.
- Assist coordinators with other duties, as assigned.
TECHNOLOGY/EQUIPMENT/TOOLS
- Presentation and audio-visual equipment
- Radios
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
This position requires walking, standing, speaking, hearing, seeing, interacting with the general public, children, parents/guardians, guests, and staff. Some lifting and carrying up to 30 pounds.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Work is performed both indoors and outdoors. Leading outdoors activities and walking to various locations throughout Seneca Park Zoo will require exposure to outdoor elements, including a range of temperatures and a variety of weather conditions.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Working toward or completed degree in education, environmental science, or related field.
- Possession of a valid NYS driver’s license is required.
- Must be at least 17 years old.
- High school diploma required.
- Teaching certification is a plus.
EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
- Teaching experience with a variety of ages, preferably in an informal setting.
- Knowledgeable about best practices in teaching and learning.
- Demonstrates a willingness to be a team player and easily collaborate with others.
- Must be energetic, flexible, punctual, organized, and exhibit a professional demeanor.
SKILLS AND COMPETENCEIES REQUIREMENTS
- Fluent Spanish speaker.
- Excellent customer service and problem-solving skills.
- Demonstrates strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.
- Ability to work well with team members and switch tasks as needs require.
Seneca Park Zoo Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
