Zookambi Camp Teacher

The Potter Park Zoo Conservation, Engagement and Learning Department has six seasonal full-time openings for Zookambi Summer Camp Teachers. Teachers prepare and deliver pre-planned summer camp programming on a variety of zoo animal related topics to students in grades 1-7. Summer camp programming has been pre-planned by a full-time Curriculum Specialist who will train all seasonal staff appropriately. 

Essential Functions

1. Deliver age appropriate lesson plans relevant to the pre-determined class topic. These include hands-on activities, excursions on zoo grounds and games/Nature Play.
2. Demonstrate strong classroom management skills in an informal setting.
3. Manage camper behavior and communicate with zoo staff and parents if behavior issues arise.
4. Make sure supplies and materials for activities/projects are on hand or ordered by staff in a timely manner.
5. Maintain a tidy class space and storage room.
6. Be responsible for the health, safety and well-being of campers, including adhering to all zoo health and safety protocols. 
7. Evaluate and provide feedback for intern and zoo teen involvement in camp.
8. Attend meetings, work days or staff development as required.

Qualifications/Experience

1. Experience working with children in an education setting. Preference will be given to candidates with experience in informal education or at a zoo or nature center.
2. Have excellent communication skills and a positive, friendly attitude.
3. Must be self-motivated, energetic, adaptable and be able to work on a team.
4. Must be able to work inside and outside and tolerate summer weather conditions, most notably heat and humidity.
5. Must be available for work from June 1 – June 26 and July 13 – August 10. Note there is a break between units from June 27 to July 12.
6. Must pass a background check.
7. Must have at least 3 references to confirm resume experience. References will be contacted for all candidates. 

Further Comments

1. This position does not participate in animal husbandry, nor do they have contact with animals.
2. Hours during camp will generally be 8:30 AM-4:30 PM during weekdays, with a 60-minute lunch break.
3. The pay rate is $14 per hour. Uniform shirts are provided.
4. First Aid/CPR certification required. Training is provided if needed.
5. Applications due April 15th, or until positions are filled.

The Potter Park Zoological Society is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to a policy of non-discrimination in application and employment for any reason, including race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, age, disability or medical status including genetic information and/or veteran’s status. Reasonable accommodation for disabilities will be made if requested in advance.

If you need reasonable accommodations for any part of the application, interview or hiring process, please contact Stephanie Pentiuk at spentiuk@ingham.org.