About Job

ZooCrew Counselors will be responsible for a group of 15 – 20 participants between the ages of 4 – 12 years for six one-week long sessions. They are responsible for delivering daily programming that includes zoo tours, crafts, animal presentations, games, and recreation. Lessons include but are not limited to the topics of ecology, zoology, conservation, and biology.

Responsibilities Include:

Ensure the safety of all program participants, including during any potential emergency situations that arise
Build a good rapport with participants and parents
Facilitate fun, engaging summer programs to a wide range of ages that include games, activities, crafts, tours of the zoo, and animal encounters
Set up and break down classroom for programming
Supervise, mentor, and evaluate the Counselors-in-Training (CIT) volunteers (ages 13 – 17)
Provide excellent customer service and represent the Zoo professionally
Inventory, prepare, maintain, and put away program supplies
Communicate effectively with parents, CITs, other ZooCrew counselors, the ZooCrew Director, the Director of Education, and all other Zoo staff

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:

18 years old
Must be responsible, dependable, creative, flexible, and enthusiastic
Experience working with children
One or two year’s experience in environmental or informal education (camp experience preferred)
Customer service experience
An appreciation for inquiry-based, conservation education and an understanding of BPZOO’s mission
General knowledge of life sciences and conservation issues
Ability to adapt and think on your feet
Ability to work independently and with co-facilitators
Strong communication skills
Time management skills
First Aid/CPR certified (or willing to become certified)
Able to work outside in varying conditions
Successful candidates must pass background check

Please note that other appropriate, professional tasks and responsibilities may be assigned at the discretion of the Director of Education.

How to Apply:

Interested applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to CDoremus@bpzoo.org. Alternatively, a single package of requested elements may be submitted to Buttonwood Park Zoo, Attn: Sara Van Wormer, 425 Hawthorn St, New Bedford, MA 02740.

Job Type: Full-time, Seasonal

Pay: $15 per hour

Schedule: Monday-Friday: training from June 30 - July 2, ZooCrew running July 7-August 15th

Deadline: This is a rolling hiring process with decisions being made by May 31st, 2025.

Job Types: Full-time, Temporary

Pay: $15.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 – 45 per week

Schedule: