Camp Programs Assistant

Zoo Educator (S)

The North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) takes care of the things that people love about North Carolina. DNCR manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. The Department's vision is to be the leader in using the state's natural and cultural resources to build the social, cultural, educational, and economic future of North Carolina. Everyone is welcome. For more information, please visit We encourage you to apply to become a part of our team!

The North Carolina Zoo has an exciting opportunity to join our team. We are seeking a dynamic, efficient, and enthusiastic individual to serve as a Camp Programs Assistant. In this role, the Camp Program Assistant will serve as a lead for camp programs, providing oversight, training, mentorship, and support to supplemental CES Educators and volunteers throughout the year. Additionally, the position will collaborate closely with the Camp Program Coordinator to develop, deliver, and evaluate year-round camp programming, as well as assist in the creation of virtual educational content.

Key Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Present and evaluate non-formal education programs and day camps, including virtual camps and KidZu Camp, which is tailored for children on the autism spectrum.
• Handle live animals and biofacts and tailor programs based on the needs of the audience.
• Transport live animals and biofacts around the Zoo, ensuring they remain safe and accounted for at all times.
• Help organize and facilitate all aspects of day camp programming.
• Assist with training, supervising, and supporting Seasonal CES Educators and volunteers in day camps.
• Create, prepare, and serve as lead counselor for day camps.
• Act as the primary contact for campers and ensure their safety during day camp activities.
• Create virtual content for various social media outlets.
• Assist with overnight Wildlife Science Camps.
• Maintain a working knowledge of all relevant Zoo and state policies and procedures.
• Support CES department programming needs, including but not limited to special events and pop-up programs.

Management Prefers

• Experience handling animal ambassadors as part of educational programming
• CIG (through NAI) certification
• First Aid and CPR certification

Position & Physical Requirements

• Must be available to work a diverse work schedule, Saturday-Friday from mid-January – mid-December. Will work weekends, holidays, and possibly some overnights.
• Knowledge of basic natural sciences such as zoology, biology, or ecology.
• Knowledge of basic educational and interpretive techniques.
• Must have public speaking experience with the ability to correctly answer questions and patiently explain difficult material.
• Experience working with all ages and providing age-appropriate programs.
• Strong communication, decision-making, and organizational skills with ability to work effectively in a team setting and alone.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to take initiative and work independently.
• Strong basic computer skills including, but not limited to, Microsoft Word, Excel, Publisher, PowerPoint, and Outlook (email and calendar).
• Strong basic video skills including, but not limited to, proper framing and maintaining focus while in motion.
• Must possess physical ability to stand and walk for long periods of time as well as move large boxes in varying weather conditions.
• Willingness and ability to train and handle animal ambassadors such as snakes, turtles, lizards, tarantulas, cockroaches, millipedes, salamanders, and frogs/toads.
• Must meet DNCR Fleet Safety Guidelines and have ability to obtain and maintain a valid driver's license issued from within the United States or be able to obtain one within 90 days of employment.
• Ability to drive a 17-passenger bus on Zoo grounds.

This position is located at:

4401 Zoo Parkway

Asheboro, NC 27205

Minimum Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in a natural science program from an appropriately accredited institution.

• Two years of experience in the development and presentation of natural science interpretive and educational programs.

Or

• An equivalent combination of education and experience.