Camp Guide

Houston Zoo•Houston, TX

20d•$17 - $18•Onsite

About The Position

The Houston Zoo Conservation Education department is seeking energetic and nature-loving individuals for our 2025 summer camp season. This position offers hands-on experience for professionals looking to spend their summer outdoors working with children in an informal, educational environment. We spend most of our time exploring animal exhibits, storytelling, and playing in natural green spaces around the Zoo. If you are a self-starter, love to be silly, and thrive in a high-energy space –this is the summer job for you! Camp Zoofari allows children ages 6-12 to explore the Zoo in-depth. Each week, campers learn about animals and the role of zoos and communities in helping to save them. They also connect with other like-minded campers and build new friendships. Camp Guides are responsible for fostering curiosity and creating memorable experiences through games, songs, stories, crafts, exhibit interpretation, and age-appropriate learning projects. They will also partner with full-time Zoo staff for special live animal presentations and back-of-house opportunities. Camper comfort and safety are a top priority, and a substantial portion of a Guide’s day-to-day is group management. We strive to create a camp experience for all that encompasses the needs and interests of each child attending Camp Zoofari. Our Mission: Houston Zoo connects communities with animals, inspiring action to save wildlife. Our Vision: Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife.

Requirements

An ideal candidate will be working towards or holding a degree in a science, education, or related field and have a demonstrated affinity and skill for working with children either in a formal or informal setting.
Candidates should have clear writing and communication skills, a positive attitude, and enjoy time spent in nature.
Selected candidates must pass a background check and drug screening, provide documentation to work in the United States, and be able to attend all required training and scheduled shifts.

Responsibilities

Ensures that the health and safety of all campers in the assigned group is maintained throughout the day.
Learn and disseminate information about the zoo’s animals
Collaborate with Camp Guide peers, maintaining a respectful and inclusive workspace.
Facilitate age-appropriate hands-on activities, games, and crafts that are directly connected to the theme of the assigned camp for the day or week.
Independently supervise, guide, and teach children ages 6-12 on a rotating schedule.
Interact with caregivers, Zoo visitors, and other staff in a professional manner.
Mentor teen Zoo Crew program participants using constructive feedback and co-teaching methods.
Serve as a role model and leader for our campers, ensuring they have a safe and fun camp environment each day.
Engage campers through educational, animal-focused storytelling.
Support the Zoo’s mission and conservation initiatives by sharing and modeling environmentally conscious behaviors.