Zoo Camp Operations Lead

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.