Camp Guide

Dallas Zoo Management•Dallas, TX

13d•$15•Onsite

About The Position

This is a seasonal entry-level position beginning in May 2026. Camp Guides are responsible for facilitating mission-driven programming on and off the Dallas Zoo campus. These individuals will actively engage audiences through educational programming, including weeklong summer camps for elementary-aged children. They must also be comfortable interpreting any topic relevant to zoo and wildlife conservation to a wide variety of audiences. This is a variable hour/temporary position which will be 40 hours per week when Camps are taking place but otherwise up to a maximum of 29 hours per week. This position is budgeted for $15.00 per hour and there are nine (5) openings.

Requirements

Excellent presentation and public engagement skills required;
Excellent natural history and wildlife conservation knowledge required with attention to scientific accuracy;
Must maintain a high level of enthusiasm, energy, and creativity while performing interpretive programs on a regular basis;
Must be comfortable working with and handling live animals;
Must be a flexible, efficient, self-motivated team player and be solutions-oriented finding creative solutions to complex challenges;
Must be able to establish and maintain an effective rapport with all levels of management, employees, interns, volunteers, and guests;
Ability to represent the Dallas Zoo in a professional manner at all times;
Ability to exercise sound judgment in emergency situations and to respond with appropriate action;
Must be able to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above head, pull bend, climb stairs and ladders and carry up to 50 lbs.;
Must be able to work holidays and weekends, both regular and irregular hours as required;
Regular, reliable, and punctual attendance is an essential function of this position;
Must be able to actively work outdoors in hot, cold, or inclement weather;
Successful candidates must complete a pre-employment drug screening and background check;
Must have a valid driver’s license to operate zoo vehicles, and reliable transportation.

Nice To Haves

An Associate’s degree in any field related to interpretation, biology, education, or conservation is required; A Bachelor’s degree in any field related to interpretation, biology, education, or conservation is preferred;
One year of experience in interpretation or education related to science, natural history, outdoor, environmental, or related field is preferred;
Bilingual speaking and writing skills are preferred;

Responsibilities

Deliver engaging, mission-driven experiences that inspire conservation action on behalf of wildlife:
Reinforce and encourage interest in wildlife through age-appropriate, positive engagement with guests via programming focused on wildlife conservation;
Actively encourage interest in wildlife through positive interactions with guests via interpretive presentations focused on Dallas Zoo conservation priorities;
Keep current on wildlife conservation issues, interpretive techniques, and conservation psychology/community-based social marketing best practices;
Interact positively and professionally with Dallas Zoo staff, interns, guests, and volunteers;
Participate in and support zoo-wide initiatives, committees, and work groups;
Understand and support Dallas Zoo’s Strategic and Master Plans and departmental goals;
Follow all safety protocols and understand the position’s role in emergency procedures. Respond to emergencies as required;
Instruct and mentor volunteers and interns: ensure compliance with Dallas Zoo’s interpretive practices and protocols;
Assist with the beautification of our park by removing trash and debris whenever you see;
Assist with and raise awareness for AZA SAFE programs and Dallas Zoo conservation efforts;
Perform other duties as assigned.