Summer Camp Team Lead

Are you looking for a fun and meaningful work experience? Join the Conservation Education team at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo as a Summer Camp Team Lead! As a Summer Camp Team Lead, you will be responsible for assisting with the implementation of the summer camp program, focused on assisting the Youth Program Coordinator and camp leaders in daily activities. Be part of inspiring the next generation of conservationists by joining our Conservation Education team!

Contract:

• Start Date: Late April 2025
• End Date: August 22, 2025

What you will do:

Staff Assistance

• Assist with developing and delivering training activities, sessions, tours and team builders during the two weeks of staff training
• Deliver weekly orientation sessions to camp volunteers. Provide mentorship and coaching to volunteers in addition to coordinating their camp assignments and weekly debrief.
• Assist with daily staff meetings as required and communication between camp staff and other members of the department.
• Oversee the morning check-in with camp leaders (including before care leaders) and monitoring client communications. Make any changes to schedule assignments as staffing needs warrant.
• Provide day to day support for camp staff, including conducting formal and informal observations and contributing feedback alongside the Youth Program Coordinator for seasonal evaluations.
• Act as key point of contact for internal departments, assist leaders with any client communication needs and camper support, troubleshoot schedule adjustments.
• Contribute building and maintaining team unity through team builders and other activities throughout the season.

Program Development

• Assist with the development and evaluation of outcome-based themes, age appropriate conservation and educational content for youth ages 4-14.

Administration

• Assist with client communication, weekly report generation and data entry for internal booking needs.
• Support the delivery of evaluations and surveys for participants and caregivers.
• Maintain camp inventory and assist with purchasing and budget monitoring.
• Assist with and coordinate camp clean-up.

What you will bring:

• At least 2 years background in natural history, zoology, biology, recreation/leisure and/or education acquired via university, college or equivalent work experience
• Experience leading, mentoring and/or coaching staff or volunteers is an asset
• Experience working with children/youth 5-14 years old; preferably in a camp setting
• Valid Standard First Aid Certificate
• The ability to present information about nature and nature conservation in an entertaining and educational manner
• A background in any of the following is an additional asset: leading tours, storytelling, leading sing-a-longs, leading games and activities, and/or presenting zoo education programs
• Knowledge of the natural history of Alberta is an asset
• Knowledge related to the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo and its collection is an asset
• Demonstrable engaging oral and written communication skills
• Demonstrable commitment to providing exceptional customer service

Additional Requirements:

• Successful candidate must provide a Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search

Working Conditions:

• Requires considerable on-grounds mobility where there are long periods of time spent on foot indoors and outdoors in all weather
• Pulling a wagon of educational resources on grounds to classrooms
• Some lifting up to 30 lbs may be required
• This seasonal position has very limited flexibility for multiple days off due to the condensed nature of the program

The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is an outdoor facility and all staff working at the zoo must be comfortable working in a large variety of outdoor conditions. The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo follows the advice of Environment Canada when responding to temperature and air quality issues.

What the Zoo Offers:

• Discounts on food, beverage, and merchandise
• A complimentary annual pass for you and your immediate family members
• A welcoming and fun work environment where you can bring your authentic self to work each day

Are you ready to join one of Canada's leaders in wildlife conservation? If this position suits your skills, experience and personal attributes, we want to talk to you.