Camp Counselor

Job Description

Position: Camp Counselor- Seasonal 

Full-Time (40-hour weeks) or Part-Time (25-hour weeks) available 

Reports to:  Lead Summer Camp Counselor, Camp Program Coordinator, and other full time Education Staff

Supervises: Summer Campers ages 3-12 and Junior Counselors 13+

Summary of Role:  
As a Camp Counselor, you will manage your own group of 10-15 campers for the 10 weeks of Zoo Camp. You will be assigned an age range to work with for the summer based on your experience and preferences. Our Part-Time Counselor opportunity works specifically with our 3-5 year-old half-day campers. Full-Time Counselors have the opportunity to work with our 6-7, 8-9, and 10-12 year old campers. 

Along with fellow camp staff, you will develop and implement a summer camp curriculum for the age range you’re responsible for. Zoo Camp focuses on educating our campers on wildlife conservation, zoo science, and expanding their love for animals and their environment. You will provide exceptional conservation education, supportive care, and a fun experience to campers. As a Camp Counselor you will work to build relationships with your campers directly and develop daily schedules for your group. A love of wildlife and conservation is highly recommended. 
 

EPZ Team Member Responsibilities:

• Assist the Zoo in fostering an appreciation of wildlife and their habitats that will inspire active participation in conservation
• Assist management in ensuring safety, cleanliness, and efficiency in all areas of operation 
• To treat with confidentiality all information entrusted or known by you regarding guests, animals, business, employees, volunteers, incidents and any other sensitive information and to discuss it only with the proper management representatives
• Be available as per business needs
• Follow and adhere to all policies, procedures, and safety protocols for the Education Department and Elmwood Park Zoo
• Use proper radio etiquette and adhere to proper dress attire at all time

Camp Counselor Specific Responsibilities:

• Build a fun group dynamic by creating bonds with your campers and learning their interests
• Coordinate with fellow camp staff to ensure Zoo spaces and materials are used properly
• Communicate with Lead Counselor and Camp Coordinator about any conflicts or injuries 
• Design and implement a daily schedule of activities for assigned age group based on weekly theme curriculum
• Maintain a safe Zoo Camp environment for all campers in your group
• Rely on Support Counselor or Junior Counselors for help throughout camp day or coverage

ZOO Camp Staff Duties:

• Attend all required training sessions
• Adhere to and implement planned programming based on age range you’re assigned to
• Bring energy and enthusiasm to the 10 weeks of camp 
• Capable of managing minor camper conflicts, needs, and minor injuries within group 
• Prepare and manage camp spaces including supplies required
• Work as a team and feel comfortable asking for support from fellow staff and Camp Coordinator

Minimum Qualification Requirements:

Education:

Minimum one-year completion of degree program in Environmental Science, Education, Biology, Zoology, Animal Science or related field or equivalent combination of education, skills, and experience

Work Experience: 

Previous experience caring for, teaching, or working with children

Previous experience working within a team dynamic

Required Knowledge and Skills:

• Ability to adapt to changing plans and handle multiple priorities
• Desire to teach wildlife, conservation, and ecological concepts
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Great punctuality and organizational skills
• Great teamwork and problem solving skills 

Preferred Skills:

First Aid/CPR Certification

Experience working within the special education field

Identification: 

Two forms of official valid identification are required 

Ability to pass background and child abuse clearances

Wage and Schedule:

Full Time: $16.00/ hr, 40 hrs/week Monday-Friday (7:45 am-4:15pm or 8:15am-4:45pm) 

Part Time: $16.00/ hr, 25 hrs/week Monday-Friday (8:00am-12:30pm)

Camp Counselors are expected to be present for at least 1 week of training and the full 10 weeks of camp. Time off can be requested in advance and given upon approval.