About the Role
The Seasonal Zoo Camp Counsellor is responsible for leading Zoo Camp, an educational day camp for children ages 4-16. The role aims to provide fun through activities and nature-related engagement while maintaining educational value in a positive and friendly environment. This position will assist and provide support in implementing the Strategic Plan.
Responsibilities
- Plan and deliver Zoo Camp programming based on weekly themes under the guidance of the Learning & Engagement Coordinator.
- Provide a memorable and fun camp experience through positive interaction with children, including tours, behind-the-scenes visits, singing, activities, crafts, and nature exploration.
- Ensure camper safety and wellbeing by adhering to Toronto Zoo policies and procedures.
- Communicate with parents in collaboration with Group Leaders/Supervisors to ensure a positive camp experience.
- Complete reports, paperwork, and administrative duties, communicating essential information with Group Leaders/Supervisors.
- Share conservation messaging in an engaging way using interpretive methods.
- Inspire sustainability awareness and actions.
- Follow appropriate health & safety protocols, recognizing and reporting hazards/concerns.
- Maintain a clean work area, adhering to health and safety guidelines, including garbage pickup, surface wiping, and washroom cleaning.
- Follow all policies and standard operating procedures.
- Attend required training.
- Assist guests on-site and ensure excellent customer service.
- Perform other duties as assigned by Supervisor or their designate.
Requirements
- Must be enrolled in, or a recent graduate of, post-secondary education, preferably in the education and/or biology field, or possess equivalent training and experience.
- Experience working with children in a camp atmosphere.
- Experience leading educational programs is preferred.
- Ability to work well in a team.
- Demonstrate knowledge of animal, plant, and conservation issues.
- Experience and knowledge of interpretive teaching methods is an asset.
- Demonstrate an awareness of and commitment to sustainable practices.
- Familiarity with the Zoo and its exhibits is preferred.
- Standard First Aid & CPR “C” certification required.
- Must ensure all applicable licenses and certificates remain valid and in good standing.
- Well-developed interpersonal skills.
- Strong communication skills.
- Working knowledge of the Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act and WHMIS legislation is an asset.
- Knowledgeable in the use of computerized programs and systems.
- Must be able to work weekends, shifts, and holidays as scheduled.
- Must be able to deal with staff and public in a courteous and efficient manner.
- Must be capable of meeting the physical requirements of the position.
- Ability to communicate effectively in English, both written and verbal.
- The successful candidate may be required to provide a police reference check and/or driver’s abstract at their own expense.
- Candidates may be required to take a written and/or practical examination relevant to the position.
Skills
- Interpersonal skills
- Communication skills
- Interpretive teaching methods
- Sustainable practices awareness
- Computerized programs and systems knowledge
- Customer service
Location
- Toronto
Work Type
- Seasonal
- Up to 40 hours per week
- Non-Permanent
Experience Level
- Entry Level
Education Level
- Post-secondary education
Salary/Compensations
- $18.60 per hour
About the Company
- The Toronto Zoo is a dynamic organization committed to protecting wildlife.
- We prioritize animal well-being in all operations and show respect for all wildlife.
- We blend science and traditional knowledge to protect species and their habitats.
- We are a welcoming place to visit, volunteer, and work, united by a shared commitment to conservation, connection, and reconciliation.
Equal Opportunity
- The Toronto Zoo values the importance of inclusive recruitment practices and strives to create a workplace that reflects and celebrates the rich diversity of our city.
- We encourage applications from all qualified individuals who can contribute to our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
- Applications are especially encouraged from racialized persons/persons of colour, Indigenous/Aboriginal people of North America, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ2S+ persons, and women.
