Camp Counselor

Position/Title: Camp Counselor (Temporary)

Department: Education

Supervisor: Family Programs Manager

Nashville Zoo Mission:

Nashville Zoo is dedicated to inspiring a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural world through conservation, innovation, and leadership. With a diverse collection of animals and a commitment to wildlife preservation, we provide engaging experiences for visitors of all ages.

Description: Nashville Zoo is seeking upbeat, positive individuals to lead the summer camp program, voted best camp in Nashville. Nashville Zoo offers a wide variety of camp programs designed for animal enthusiasts in grades kindergarten through high school. While animals are a big focus of our camp programs, we strive for a balance between animals and nature while encouraging other interests, passions and activities youth might have. Whether a child’s favorite animal is a leopard, they love to play sports, sing, or enjoy art, there is something for them at Nashville Zoo camp and we are looking for camp counselors who will be just as excited to explore and learn along with them! Camp Counselors are responsible for facilitating age-appropriate lessons, activities, crafts, and games that focus on animals, conservation, and the environment. Ideal candidates possess an enthusiasm for working with and empowering youth.

Applicants must be available Monday through Friday, May 11 through August 3, 2026 (Monday following conclusion of camp), which includes 2 weeks of training, 10 weeks of camp programming and 1 additional day for camp wrap-up. Camp counselors are allowed up to one week of unpaid vacation during the duration of the position (must be pre-approved by hiring manager). Counselors will work between 32 and 40 hours per week with exception of holiday weeks when there isn't camp on Memorial Day or Juneteenth.

Visit: Zoo Camps (nashvillezoo.org) to learn about the different camp programs at Nashville Zoo this summer.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Guide campers through different themed programs, utilizing age-appropriate lessons, activities, arts, and games
• Create a positive environment that encourages active learning for campers
• Motivate and assist campers in learning new skills, while exploring the zoo
• Communicate with other educators, Education Department staff, teen volunteers, and Zoo staff
• Communicate with camp management on supplies and materials needed for activities
• Other duties as assigned

Job Requirements

Minimum Requirements:

• Must be at least 18 years of age
• High school diploma or GED equivalent

Required Skills:

The successful candidate must have:

• Desire to work with children
• Demonstrated excellent interpersonal communication skills and be able to collaborate effectively with other zoo departments
• Excellent written and oral communication skills to represent the zoo
• Ability to work well independently without direct supervision
• Excellent multitasking, time management and creative problem-solving skills

• Ability to respond to emergency situations calmly and follow protocols

Desired Skills:

The following skills and experience are desired and are considered a plus:

• Degree earned, or working towards, in Biology, Zoology, Environmental Education/Interpretation, Education, or related field

• Knowledge of basic teaching methods as well as non-traditional techniques for early childhood development

• Computer experience, including use of Microsoft Office and digital media

• Previous experience teaching or working in a camp setting
• First Aid and CPR certificates

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to move items up to 25 pounds
• Ability to work outdoors in temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit
• Ability to move around zoo grounds for extended periods of time

Employee Requirements:

Prior to hire, the successful candidate must:

• Submit to a criminal background check and drug screen
• Provide proof of a negative TB test