Come join us for the summer at the Great Plains Zoo as a Seasonal Educator – JZK Supervisor! This position helps continue our organization’s mission by supervising and guiding Junior ZooKeeper participants. You will be working with teens ages 13-18 as they care for the animals in the Farm, handle ambassador animals in daily Creature Features, and provide guest interaction throughout the zoo.
Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Providing day-to-day care, cleaning and diets for Farm animals and their exhibits by supervising and working alongside JZK participants, in a manner that meets the standards held by the Animal Care staff.
- Handling ambassador animals safely and correctly as needed, and coaching JZKs in handling and presenting ambassador animals for daily Creature Feature presentations.
- Supporting JZK participants as they present daily Bookworms storybook programs.
- Overseeing teens as they present informal education opportunities on zoo grounds, including artifact carts and conservation activities.
- Maintaining appropriate supervision and safety for all program participants and guests.
- Providing outstanding guest service to JZKs, their parents, and zoo visitors.
- Communicating professionally and positively with guests, staff, volunteers, and others.
Time Commitment
JZK Supervisors will be scheduled 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Sunday-Saturday. Specific weekly schedules will vary. JZK Supervisors must commit to 10 days of training on weekdays in May and must be available to work for most of the program (June 3 – Aug. 11).
Qualifications include, but are not limited to:
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Must be willing and able to work the schedule listed above.
- Previous experience working with animals is preferred.
- Previous experience working with teens is preferred.
- The ability to work well alone and as part of a team.
- Maturity, sound judgment and good decision-making skills.
- Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions, be able to lift 50 lbs., and be able to stand for long periods of time.
- Must successfully pass a criminal background check.
- Must provide proof of a negative TB test.
We are hiring to fill three openings of this position.