DescriptionGENERAL PURPOSE
This seasonal position lasting from April 2026 - August 2026, is responsible for actively engaging Zoo campers and other guests to foster an appreciation for and understanding of animals and nature through animal interactions and observations, games, crafts, and other activities. This job supports the mission and vision of the Fresno’s Chaffee Zoo Corporation (FCZC) by supporting educational programs that inspire a connection to the natural world using the Zoo’s resources and exhibits.
We are pleased to offer this part-time position an Employee Assistance Program, 401k, Paid CA Sick time on an accrued basis. The pay range for this position is $17.78 - $20.29 per hour. Offers will be based on the successful candidate's experience.
ESSENTIAL ACCOUNTABILITIES
· Maintains a safe and healthy environment for all our campers, ranging in age from 3-17.
· Implements weekly lesson plans including games, activities and crafts that correlate with the program’s overall theme and goals.
· Presents lesson plan components in a professional, fun, energetic manner. Maintains a positive, patient attitude throughout each program session.
· Maintains an organized flow of class time to accomplish planned activities.
· Gathers all supplies and materials needed for daily activities and informs coordinators of needed items.
· Provides feedback on lesson plans and resources.
· Provides effective age-appropriate management of student behavior to ensure an educational, enjoyable time for all participants. Requests assistance from managers as appropriate.
· Supports teen volunteers working in assigned class.
· Perform additional responsibilities as assigned to support team and organizational goals.
QualificationsEDUCATION AND JOB QUALIFICATIONS
· High School Diploma or equivalent (GED) degree required.
· Minimum of six (6) months paid or unpaid experience working with children is required (camp counselor, tutor, nanny, Zoo Educator/CI).
· Completion of 60 credit hours towards a degree in Education, Child Development, Biology, Ecology, or another related field highly preferred.
· Strong verbal and written English communications skills required. Bilingual (Spanish or Hmong) communication skills a plus.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
These are the physical and mental requirements of the position as it is typically performed. Inability to meet one or more of these physical or mental requirements will not automatically disqualify a candidate or employee from the position. Upon request for reasonable accommodation, the Zoo may be able to adjust or excuse one or more of these requirements, depending on the requirement, the essential functions to which it relates, and the proposed accommodation.
· Close visual acuity to perform activities such as reviewing lessons, analyzing charts, viewing a computer terminal, and extensive reading. Color perception is also required.
· Ability to receive detailed information through oral communication (in person and via telephone) at normal speaking levels with or without correction.
· Hand and finger dexterity sufficient for typing and other administrative tasks.
· Must be able to lift, push, pull or carry up to 40 lbs.
· Must be able to walk 3 miles regularly and up to 8 miles occasionally per day.
· Must be able to bend, kneel, and stoop occasionally.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
· This position functions both indoors and outdoors, with possible exposure to heat, cold, inclement weather, Zoo environments, and external events.
· The employee may be exposed to environmental substances such as dust/dirt from Zoo grounds.
· The position works in close proximity to Zoo animals.
· This position works in close proximity with children and students of all ages at the Zoo and in classroom settings.
· Ability to work overtime, evenings, weekdays, weekends, and holidays.
