Safari Camp Instructor

General Description
As a member of the Education Team, the seasonal full-time Safari Camp Instructor will work to lead groups of campers in the Safari Camp program as part of the Camp Staff.

Day camps run between June 17 and August 18, Monday through Friday most weeks. Camp staff is expected to be available for at least eight weeks of camp plus training dates. Anticipated date conflicts within the camp season should be shared at time of interview.

All candidates are required to attend paid team training dates:
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 from shared schedules, lesson plans and program materials.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead groups of 10-14 youth in grades K-12 for weeklong and two-day daytime camps throughout the Zoo on hikes, hands-on activities, art projects, games, and singing
• Work collaboratively as the main facilitator for a group with an assigned Camp Aide partner
• Provide mentorship and support task direction to a Counselor-in-Training (CIT) teen volunteer
• Demonstrate flexibility and a willingness to work with any grade-level group as assigned during the season
• 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
• Actively engage with campers as a group and individually to create a welcoming and inclusive community amongst the group during activities and free play
• 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 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

Qualifications
Education and Experience

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

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Familiar with concepts of biology, environmental science, or animal welfare and 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 participant, caregiver or guest issues before they escalate 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

Working Conditions
Shift schedules will be assigned for the season during training dates. Camp is held mainly outdoors in a variety of weather conditions through the summer.

Physical Requirements
This position requires sitting, standing, walking, bending, and stooping for extended periods. This position can expect employees to walk three to five miles a day. The noise level in the work environment is moderate. The employee must be able to lift and move 25-40 pounds. The individual 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.