The Santa Barbara Zoo is looking for a Zoo Camp Operations Lead to support our camp programs.
Position Status: Part-Time, Seasonal, Hourly, Non-Exempt
Schedule: Monday - Friday
Compensation: $20.00 - $22.00 per hour
*You must also complete the Zoo's Official Employment Application on the next page in order to be considered for the position*
SUMMARY:
Under the general direction of the Education Supervisor: Formal Programs and Education Team, the Zoo Camp Operations Lead promotes the Zoo and its mission through the planning, coordination, and daily operation of Santa Barbara Zoo’s camp programs. This role works closely with the Camp Director to ensure high-quality, safe, and engaging educational experiences that inspire a love of wildlife, conservation, and the natural world. leadership to camp staff, supports curriculum implementation, coordinates daily logistics, and serves as a key point of contact for zoo camp stakeholders.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
Program Operations & Support:
- Assist with planning, organizing, and executing Zoo Camp programs for children of varying agegroups.
- Support daily camp operations through scheduling assistance, supply management, and animal experiences.
- Step in to lead camp activities or supervise groups as needed to ensure smooth program delivery.
- Assist with critical program transitions and daily communication with families.
- Support the training, and supervision of camp educators, and teen volunteers.
- Model best practices in behavior management, child engagement, and outdoor education.
- Provide feedback, mentorship, and real-time coaching to camp staff and teen volunteers.
- Help foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative camp team culture.
- Serve as a professional and welcoming point of contact for campers, families, and zoo staff.
Administrative Support:
- Assist with inventory management, attendance tracking, incident reports, and program documentation.
- Support evaluation efforts by collecting feedback from staff, campers, and families.
- Assist with special events, extended care programs, or additional education initiatives as needed.
Curriculum & Education:
- Support implementation of age-appropriate, inquiry-based curriculum aligned with Santa Barbara Zoo’s conservation and education goals.
- Assist with adapting activities for different learning styles and abilities.
- Ensure educational content is accurate, engaging, and aligned with zoo messaging.
SECONDARY DUTIES:
- Other duties as assigned to maintain efficient and quality Zoo operations.
Guest Relations:
- Greets every guest with a smile
- Thanks guests for supporting/visiting the Zoo
- Answers phone calls, voice mails, and e-mails promptly
- Ensures the Zoo’s presentation standards for cleanliness and maintenance are met by keeping work areas clean, picking up trash, reporting unsafe or unsightly conditions
- Associates with guests to assist and share information
- Responds to all guest inquiries, complaints, and comments according to Zoo guest relations procedures
- Maintains a clean neat appearance and adheres to the Zoo’s uniform dress code
- Takes responsibility for staying informed about happenings at the Zoo, such as reading employee communications and attending meetings
- Reflects the qualities outlined in the Guest Relations Statement, the Zoo’s Core Values, and the Employee Pledge
- Applies and exemplifies “green” (sustainable) practices whenever possible
- Other miscellaneous duties as required
POSITION CRITERIA:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements and environmental characteristics described below are representative of the knowledge, skill, ability, and working and physical elements required of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Education & Experience:
- Minimum 2 years of college coursework in life sciences, zoology, education, or environmental sciences, child development, or equivalent experience preferred
- Minimum of 2 years of experience working in youth camps, outdoor education, informal education, or similar settings.
- Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and navigate a zoo environment.
License, Certification, or Preferred Qualifications:
- Prefer experience in an environmental education setting
- Successful completion of a Department of Justice background check
- First Aid and CPR certification required
- TB tests and Tetanus vaccinations as necessary
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:
- Basic knowledge of biology and zoology preferred
- Ability to organize, plan, collaborate, and implement educational presentations
- Skilled in improvisation
- Energetic and engaging personality
- Ability to present educational programs to diverse audiences and large groups of people
- Ability to envision and implement innovative solutions and ideas
- Ability to contribute to the creative process
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
- Knowledge of computer software, including word processing and database programs
- Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, and our guests
- Ability to exercise safe work habits
- Awareness of, sensitivity to, and empathy with animals
Physical Demands & Work Environment:
- Must be able to lift 50 pounds occasionally and 10 or fewer pounds frequently
- Ability to exert a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly push, pull, or otherwise move objects
- Ability to run, kneel, sit on the ground/floor, squat, and stand for long periods of time
- Ability to negotiate the Zoo work environment including behind-the-scenes, lawns, gravel, hilltop, and attic storage
- Must be available to work overnight
- Involves walking out-of-doors in all weather conditions
- Supportive and open employment culture
- Must be physically able to operate a variety of machines and equipment including, electric carts, telephones, printers, two-way radios, projectors, and copiers
Tools Used:
- Two-way radios
- Electric cart
- Personal computer and software (Word, Excel, and Outlook)
- Printer
- Telephone system
- Bio Facts and various learning-based materials
- Wagons
BENEFITS & PERKS:
- Great team, beautiful grounds, amazing animal collection, sunshine & ocean view almost year-round!
- Free parking, free guest passes, unlimited free tea/coffee every morning, 20% discounts on food services and retail purchases
- Access to the Collabornation learning platform, professional development, and lunch & learn opportunities
*You must also complete the Zoo's Official Employment Application on the next page in order to be considered for the position*
Please make sure to check your spam folder if you do not see an email response from the Zoo.
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive
consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex,
national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other
characteristic protected by law.
Do you love animals and working with people? Join the fun, caring, friendly, and energetic team at the Santa Barbara Zoo in our mission of preservation, conservation, and enhancement of the natural world and its living treasures through education, research, and recreation.
Once you apply, please make sure to check your spam folder if you do not see an email response from the Zoo.
The Santa Barbara Zoo is a private 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation and is a fully accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Known as one of the world’s most beautiful zoos, it is located on 30 acres of lush botanic gardens overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It is home to more than 146 animal species living in open, naturalistic habitats. Our wonderful collaborative team includes up to 220 employees and 50 volunteers.
