Wildlife and Nature Specialist

Reports to (title): Director, Day Camp 

JCC Chicago is seeking a passionate, engaging, and knowledgeable Wildlife & Nature Specialist to bring our Garoon Gateway to Science space to life this summer. This role is ideal for someone who loves working with children, has a curiosity for the natural world, and is excited to create hands-on, interactive learning experiences. 

The Wildlife & Nature Specialist will design and lead nature-based programming, care for a variety of reptiles and small animals, and inspire campers and Garoon Gateway visitors to develop a deeper appreciation for wildlife, biology, conservation, and the environment through interactive educational experiences. 

At JCC Chicago, we are focused on growing good kids, building communities, and educating ourselves about the past to make a difference for the future. The largest JCC in North America, JCC Chicago offers a life-affirming journey that builds on the richness and power of Jewish values and continues to reimagine them for a more connected, inspired community. 

Key Essential Job Duties 

• Develop and implement age-appropriate wildlife, nature, and biology curriculum for campers.  

• Lead engaging, hands-on activities in the Garoon Gateway to Science, including wildlife exploration, experiments, and live animal encounters.  

• Care for live animals, including reptiles and small animals (e.g., turtles, hermit crabs, bearded dragon), ensuring proper feeding, habitat maintenance, enrichment, and overall wellbeing.  

• Maintain and clean animal habitats, enclosures, and related equipment to ensure a safe and healthy environment.  

• Safely introduce and showcase animals to campers, creating meaningful educational experiences while promoting respect for wildlife.  

• Adapt programming to meet the developmental needs of diverse campers and age groups.  

• Collaborate with the JCC Chicago team to integrate wildlife and environmental education into broader camp programming.  

• Uphold all safety, health, animal care, and camp policies.  

Marginal Job Duties 

• Other duties as assigned. 

Essential Job Duties / Physical Requirements 

• Lift, carry, and safely handle small animals, including reptiles, mammals, and other educational program animals.  

• Demonstrate the physical stamina and mobility required to actively participate in camp programming.  

• Stand, walk, bend, and actively engage with children for extended periods.  

• React with physical and mental alertness in emergency situations.  

• Clearly communicate in a manner children understand.  

• Supervise children and animals by sight and sound.  

• Continuously scan the environment to ensure camper and animal safety.  

• Demonstrate, motivate, and communicate effectively with children, families, and staff.  

• Speak clearly and project voice during indoor and outdoor programming.  

• Maintain mental alertness and concentration throughout the workday.  

• Recognize and appropriately respond to camper and animal behaviors, redirecting or managing situations safely.  

Schedule: Days/Hours/% Travel: 

Start date: ASAP (year-round role)  

Monday-Friday, 20 hours per week; Hours may vary due to programmatic scheduling some weekends as needed 

Direct Reports (Titles and FTE%):  

N/A 

Indirect Reports (Titles and FTE%):  

N/A 

Hourly Rate: 

$22-$25 per hour 

Job Category:  

Seasonal, hourly 

Education Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree required in wildlife biology, zoology, biology, environmental science, ecology, education, or a closely related field.  

• Coursework or academic focus in animal science, ecology, conservation, or informal science education strongly preferred. 

Other Requirements 

• Minimum of 2–4 years of relevant professional experience in wildlife education, animal care, environmental education, conservation, zoological institutions, museums, nature centers, or related fields. 

• Work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, wind, and light precipitation. 

• Perform routine animal care tasks, including feeding, cleaning enclosures, and maintaining sanitary conditions. 

• Follow proper hygiene and safety protocols when handling animals to prevent injury or the spread of illness. 

• Must have reliable transportation, a valid driver's license, and proof of auto insurance (minimum $250,000 liability coverage). 

• Comfort and experience working with reptiles and small animals  

• Experience working with children in a camp, classroom, or informal education setting  

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to engage and excite campers  

• Flexible, organized, and able to adapt in a fast-paced camp environment  

• Passion for experiential learning and creating inclusive, supportive environments for all campers