What are the responsibilities and job description for the ICC Summer Camp Counselor position at Zoological Society?
Position Title: Seasonal Summer Camp Counselor Job Code:
Department: Conservation Education Job Grade:
Reports To: Outdoor Programs Supervisor FLSA Status: Hourly, Non-Exempt
Purpose:
International Conservation Center Summer Camp Counselors are responsible for working cooperatively with other staff to create a fun and engaging experience for our campers. Responsibilities include interacting with campers ages 4-11, preparing daily activities, delivering daily lessons, facilitating games, activities, songs, and crafts, providing information about our animals, assisting with wagon tours and other animal talks, and supervising campers both in the classroom and outdoors at the International Conservation Center. Performs other duties as assigned and directed.
This is a seasonal 40-hour per week position. Successful candidates must be able to work Monday-Friday, 8:30-4:30 from May 12-August 15, 2025.
Essential Job Functions:
- Ensure camper safety by being knowledgeable on all camp policies and procedures and enforce camp rules to maintain a safe environment.
- Coordinate and supervise various camp activities and programs to ensure they are engaging, well-organized, and safe for all participants.
- Work directly with other staff to help maintain adult to child ratios.
- Address camper behavioral issues in a constructive and fair manner, fostering an inclusive, respectful camp culture that ensures camper, staff, and animal safety.
- Ensure that camp classrooms, outdoor spaces, and supplies are well-maintained, safe, and ready for use during all activities.
- Work with camp leadership to maintain open and positive communication with parents and guardians regarding camper experience, behavior, and any concerns that arise during the camp session.
- Foster a supportive and inclusive camp environment where all campers and staff feel valued, respected, and encouraged to grow and thrive.
- Work effectively as part of the education team with staff, volunteers, and interns in all departments.
- Contribute professionally to a collaborative, innovative, and energetic work environment.
Other Functions:
- Performs other related duties as required.
Performance Factors:
- Attendance and Dependability: The employee can be depended on to report to work at the scheduled time, including Saturdays, and is seldom absent from work. Employee can be depended upon to complete work in a timely, accurate and thorough manner and is conscientious about assignments.
- Communication and Contact: The employee communicates effectively both verbally and in writing with superiors, colleagues, and individuals inside and outside the Zoological Society.
- Relationships with Others: The employee works effectively and relates well with others including superiors, colleagues, and individuals inside and outside the Zoological Society. Exhibits a professional manner in dealing with others, and works to maintain constructive working relationships.
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Provides excellent customer service in the areas of guest relations and park beautification:
- Answers visitor inquiries or finds someone who can;
- Is knowledgeable of location of exhibits, restrooms, concessions, rentals, etc.
- Disposes of litter and waste throughout the park and zoo facilities.
Education/Experience/Knowledge/Skills:
- Must have earned or are currently pursuing a B.S. or B.A. degree in Education, Zoology, Biology, or a related field with previous experience working with children in a camp or informal education setting. Comparable experiences will be considered.
- Strong organizational, time management, classroom management, and interpersonal skills are required, along with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Must have strong knowledge of environmental education, conservation, biology, zoology, and/or related subjects.
- Demonstrated proficiency with presentation skills and attention to detail are required.
- Proven ability to successfully handle urgent and stressful situations and make safety-focused decisions quickly and efficiently.
- Must have the proven ability to work independently and with an in person team members to create and deliver programming while fostering a positive and collaborative team environment.
- Experience working in environmental education preferred.
- First Aid and CPR certification preferred.
- Department of Human Services Child Abuse History Clearance, Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Records Check, and Federal Criminal History Record Information are required, along with a valid PA driver’s license.
Physical Requirements:
- Manual dexterity to operate office machinery such as personal computer, telephone, copier, calculator, etc.
- Position works indoors and outdoors equally and is exposed to all weather conditions.
- Position may be physically demanding, and requires the ability to walk on paved and off-road paths and trails, travel in and operate vehicles, and lift up to 50 pounds.
- Must be able to work evenings, weekends and holidays as needed.
- Occasional off grounds travel may be required.
