What are the responsibilities and job description for the Safari Camp Aide position at Detroit Zoological Society?
General Description
As a member of the Education Team, the seasonal part-time Safari Camp Aide will work with an instructor to guide groups of campers in the Safari Camp program as part of the Camp Staff.
Day camps run between June 19-August 20, Monday-Friday most weeks. Evening camps are offered on select dates during the camp season. Camp staff is expected to be available for at least eight weeks of camp.
As a member of the Education Team, the seasonal part-time Safari Camp Aide will work with an instructor to guide groups of campers in the Safari Camp program as part of the Camp Staff.
Day camps run between June 19-August 20, Monday-Friday most weeks. Evening camps are offered on select dates during the camp season. Camp staff is expected to be available for at least eight weeks of camp.
All candidates must attend training prior to the start of work:
- June 8
- June 10 (evening)
- June 17-20
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
- Support Camp Instructor with groups of 10-14 youth in grades K-9 for weeklong and three-day day camps throughout the Zoo on hikes, in hands-on activities, art, games, and singing
- Greet guests, caregivers and program participants with enthusiasm and provide information to enhance each person’s Zoo experience and provide campers a positive and memorable camp program
- Be familiar with all facets of the Zoo in order to answer questions properly
- Contribute to a positive, high energy, entertaining experience and atmosphere
- Must be available for a weekday work schedule, usually 8:15 a.m.- 4:45 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.) and evening camps (1:00 p.m.-9:30 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
- Completion of a High School Diploma or equivalent with experience in a zoological institution or youth organization OR enrollment in a Bachelor’s degree program in Education, General Science, Zoology, Biology or other related field
- Experience working with people of all ages, especially children
- Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Familiar with concepts of biology, environmental science or animal welfare concepts, 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, diplomatic and use common sense to make sound decisions
- Must have the ability to think quickly and identify solutions to address issues before they escalate
- Must be professional and have a positive, friendly, social disposition
- Before hire, must clear a background check
Working Conditions:
Schedule that will include weekday shifts and potential for occasional evening shifts. Camp is held mainly outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
Physical Requirements:
This position requires sitting, standing, walking, bending and stooping for extended periods. The noise level in the work environment is moderate. The employee must be able to lift and move 25-40 pounds and have the ability to perform the essential functions of the job 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.