Zoofari Summer Camp Instructor

The Staten Island Zoo is seeking energetic and responsible individuals to join our Zoofari Summer Camp team as Camp Instructors. Candidates will oversee one group of 10–15 participants for one-week sessions. Participants are divided into 5 groups by grade:  Pre-K; Kindergarten – 1st grade; 2nd – 3rd Grade; 4th – 5th Grade; and 6th – 8th Grade.  Instructors will supervise, guide, and inspire campers while ensuring a fun, safe, and engaging Zoofari experience.  The Staten Island Zoo’s message of conservation should be a core component in the lesson plans.

This position requires prep hours prior to sessions; one full day of prep for each week. Instructors are also required to attend an orientation prior to the start of camp.

Summer Camp Instructors report to the OST Coordinator. 

Schedule:  35 hours a week, Monday – Friday

Duration:  Summer 2025; June 30 – August 22; must commit to at least 2 weeks

Description of Duties:

• Curriculum Planning & Implementation; design and deliver a diverse range of engaging and age-appropriate activities for campers, including tours of the Zoo, arts and crafts, recreation, and animal/natural science lessons aligning with the weekly theme.
• Engage with campers, fostering a positive and inclusive environment. Act as a mentor and role model, promoting respect and responsibility, while fostering a positive and inclusive camp environment that encourages teamwork and friendship. Gain skills in group management, conflict resolution, and creating a supportive community atmosphere.
• Handle minor behavioral and disciplinary issues appropriately and report major concerns to camp leadership.
• Oversee volunteers, assigning tasks such as preparing crafts, helping with activities, and daily clean up.
• Understand and implement safety protocols and camp policies. Learn how to conduct risk assessments and ensure a secure environment for all participants at all times.
• Assist in collecting feedback from campers and staff to evaluate program effectiveness. Contribute to discussions on improvements and adjustments for future camp sessions.

Education and Experience: 

• Experience teaching/educating in a formal or informal setting.
• Understanding of inquiry-based learning theory and practice.
• Knowledge of biology, ecology, and/or zoology preferred.
• Animal handling experience not required but a plus.

Skills:

• Organization and planning skills.
• Ability to multi-task and juggle multiple projects; time management skills and flexibility.
• Able to adapt to new situations/experiences.
• Must possess strong communication skills; must communicate frequently and in a professional manner with supervisors, staff, and campers.
• Must work well with others and have the ability to work independently.
• Previous animal handling experience not required but a plus

Additional Qualifications: 

• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Successful completion of a background check
• Ability to work outdoors under various weather conditions.
• Must follow safety guidelines and always demonstrate safe working practices.
• Covid-19 Vaccination 2024 – 2025