Assistant Educator – Camp Staff

General Summary: As a member of the Conservation Education Department at The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, the Assistant Educator – Camp Staff is responsible for delivering engaging, mission-driven educational programs to a variety of audiences, with a primary focus on Zoo Camp participants. This role supports the Zoo’s mission by fostering curiosity, inspiring conservation action, and providing meaningful learning experiences for all guests. Additionally, the Assistant Educator will support the Zoo’s conservation, sustainability, education, and DEAI (Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion) goals.

Conservation Education Mission: To offer authentic, accessible learning experiences that spark curiosity, foster empathy for wildlife, and grow a diverse community of conservation advocates.

Work Dates and Schedule:

• Duration: June 9, 2025 – August 15, 2025 (Training built-in)
• Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM or 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM shift

Essential Functions

Primary Functions:

• Ensure that all programming is engaging, innovative, and effective, as evaluated and aligned with the mission of The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore and its Conservation Education Department.
• Assist with camp programs and other educational activities, including, but not limited to:
• Leading group games and activities.
• Helping participants complete crafts and projects.
• Leading participants on guided walks through the Zoo.
• Supporting office-related tasks as needed.
• Prioritize the safety and well-being of all participants under the guidance of the Conservation Education Leadership and/or Educators.
• Follow proper protocols and procedures for interactions with animals, visitors, and program participants.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Adhere to all policies and procedures of the Zoo.

Communication (Internal and External):

• Assist in preparing and presenting programs, including gathering and managing required materials.
• Provide extraordinary customer service to all Zoo guests and internal colleagues.

Management of Resources (Financial, Human Resources, Facilities):

• Demonstrate strong teamwork and collaboration skills.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

• Coursework or training in animal science, education, or a related field.

Experience/Training:

• Experience working with children aged 7–17.
• Prior roles as a camp counselor, educator, or classroom assistant.
• CPR/First Aid Certification (training available if not currently certified).
• Minimum age of 19 years.

Desirable Traits:

• Excellent oral communication skills.
• Self-motivated and detail-oriented.
• Able to work independently or collaboratively as part of a team.

Equipment:

• Must be able to operate a variety of machines and equipment including computer, telephone, scanner, copier, fax, two-way radio, golf cart, vehicles, hand tools, gardening/carpentry tools, computer, cash register and/or a computer-based point of sale system, etc.

Working Conditions:

• Standing (up to 8 hours per day), walking (6 hours per day), sitting (up to 8 hours per day);
• Must be able to walk large areas of the Zoo as needed;
• Must be able to exert up to 50 pounds of force to lift, push, pull, carry, or otherwise move objects;
• Ability to use senses to monitor animal health;
• Must be able to work for extended periods of time in an outdoor weather environment, in all seasons and weather, including heat/humidity, cold temperatures, and/or wet conditions;
• Daily contact with plants and animals including being subject to bites, stings and scrapes;
• Ability to travel (car/van) as needed - locally and/or state-wide;
• Ability to work a camp week schedule;
• Ability to drive golf cart and large cargo van with appropriate license; and,
• Clean background check, fingerprinting and driving record.

Disclaimer:

The statements above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification.  They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and/or skills required of all personnel so classified.  Therefore, management reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other or different tasks be performed when circumstances change.

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