Camp Counselor
About The Position
Nashville Zoo is seeking upbeat, positive individuals to lead the summer camp program, voted best camp in Nashville. Nashville Zoo offers a wide variety of camp programs designed for animal enthusiasts in grades kindergarten through high school. While animals are a big focus of our camp programs, we strive for a balance between animals and nature while encouraging other interests, passions and activities youth might have, for example PikaZoo Camp (Pokémon themed). Whether a child’s favorite animal is a leopard, they love to play sports, sing, or enjoy art, there is something for them at Nashville Zoo camp and we are looking for camp counselors who will be just as excited to explore and learn along with them! Camp Counselors are responsible for facilitating age-appropriate lessons, activities, crafts, and games that focus on animals, conservation, and the environment. Ideal candidates possess an enthusiasm for working with and empowering youth. There is no camp on Memorial Day, Juneteenth or July 4th. Applicants must be available Monday through Friday, May 12 through August 5, 2025 (Tuesday following conclusion of camp), which includes 2 weeks of training, 10 weeks of camp programming and 2 additional days for camp wrap-up. Camp counselors are allowed up to one week of unpaid vacation during the duration of the position (must be pre-approved by hiring manager). Visit: Zoo Camps (nashvillezoo.org) to learn about the different camp programs at Nashville Zoo this summer.
Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- Desire to work with children
- Demonstrated excellent interpersonal communication skills and be able to collaborate effectively with other zoo departments
- Excellent written and oral communication skills to represent the zoo
- Ability to work well independently without direct supervision
- Excellent multitasking, time management and creative problem-solving skills
- Ability to respond to emergency situations calmly and follow protocols
- Submit to a criminal background check and drug screen
- Provide proof of a negative TB test
- Ability to move items up to 25 pounds
- Ability to work outdoors in temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit
- Ability to move around zoo grounds for extended periods of time
Nice To Haves
- Degree earned, or working towards, in Biology, Zoology, Environmental Education/Interpretation, Education, or related field
- Knowledge of basic teaching methods as well as non-traditional techniques for early childhood development
- Computer experience, including use of Microsoft Office and digital media
- Previous experience teaching or working in a camp setting
- First Aid and CPR certificates
Responsibilities
- Guide campers through different themed programs, utilizing age-appropriate lessons, activities, arts, and games
- Create a positive environment that encourages active learning for campers
- Motivate and assist campers in learning new skills, while exploring the zoo
- Communicate with other educators, Education Department staff, teen volunteers, and Zoo staff
- Communicate with camp management on supplies and materials needed for activities
- Other duties as assigned
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
