Safari Camp Instructor

Detroit Zoological Society•Royal Oak, MI

8d•Onsite

About The Position

As a member of the Education Team, the seasonal full-time Safari Camp Instructor will work to lead groups of campers in the Safari Camp program as part of the Camp Staff. Day camps run between June 17 and August 18, Monday through Friday most weeks. Camp staff is expected to be available for at least eight weeks of camp plus training dates. Anticipated date conflicts within the camp season should be shared at time of interview. All candidates are required to attend paid team training dates: Thursday, May 21 5-9 p.m. Wednesday, May 27 5-9 p.m. Saturday, May 30 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday, June 10 5-9 p.m. Sunday, June 14 9-5 p.m. Monday/Tuesday, June 15-16 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. During training, camp staff will learn to facilitate programs by reviewing and practicing from shared schedules, lesson plans and program materials.

Requirements

Must be 18 years or older as of June 1, 2026
Completion of a Bachelor’s degree in Education, General Science, Zoology, Biology, or other related field OR completion of a High School Diploma or equivalent with four years of experience in a zoological institution or a youth organization preferred
Experience working with youth in formal or informal learning environments
Familiar with concepts of biology, environmental science, or animal welfare 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, flexible and use common sense to make sound decisions
Must have the ability to think quickly and identify solutions to participant, caregiver or guest issues before they escalate and report issues and challenges to supervisors and camp directors
Work collaboratively with camp directors, supervisors and camp team and be open and flexible to trying and sharing new ideas and feedback
Must be professional and have a positive, friendly, social disposition
Must clear a background check before hire

Responsibilities

Lead groups of 10-14 youth in grades K-12 for weeklong and two-day daytime camps throughout the Zoo on hikes, hands-on activities, art projects, games, and singing
Work collaboratively as the main facilitator for a group with an assigned Camp Aide partner
Provide mentorship and support task direction to a Counselor-in-Training (CIT) teen volunteer
Demonstrate flexibility and a willingness to work with any grade-level group as assigned during the season
Greet guests, caregivers and program participants with enthusiasm and provide information to enhance each person’s Zoo experience and provide campers with a positive and memorable camp program
Actively engage with campers as a group and individually to create a welcoming and inclusive community amongst the group during activities and free play
Be familiar with all facets of the Zoo in order to answer questions properly
Contribute to a positive, energetic, and safe experience for campers, colleagues and guests
Must be available for a weekday work schedule, usually 8 a.m.- 4:30 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.)
Assist with program setup and breakdown
All other responsibilities and tasks as assigned