The Assistant Camp Instructor assists the Zoo's education department by enthusiastically delivering hands-on, educational programming to children in kindergarten through fifth (5th) grade. This position is responsible for administering high-quality curriculum that aligns with the theme and the goal of the camp, ensuring the safety of all campers in their care, and supporting the mission of the Zoo "to enrich lives through firsthand interaction with living things." Assistant instructors are responsible for maintaining a positive culture within their group by directly interacting with campers in games and activities, organizing materials and supplies, and aiding the lead instructor. Camp will be held over the Lincoln Public School district's two-day fall break from October 15-16, 2026. Camp hours are from 8:15am to 4:15pm, with instructors' contract hours somewhere between 7:30am and 5:00pm. A typical day of camp includes approximately two hours of interactive, STEM-based lessons, lunch and free-play time, crafting, snack time, and a series of activities throughout the zoo including scavenger hunts, zookeeper chats and animal demos, and various science and nature exploration activities. While curriculum is provided, instructors are expected to be able to work collaboratively and with exceptional creativity, knowing that working with children creates its own unique challenges and things do not always go according to plan. A sense of humor and flexibility is a must, as well as the ability to actively and independently problem-solve when issues arise. The Lincoln Children's Zoo is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization and is home to over 400 animals, including giraffes, cheetahs, tigers, giant anteaters, red pandas, Humboldt penguins, ring-tailed lemurs, and Galapagos tortoises. As a member of our staff, you will be expected to represent the Zoo well by maintaining a positive attitude and delivering exceptional customer service to guests and the children in your care while respecting our animals and their habitats. This position involves communication and collaboration with staff from various departments in the zoo, including animal care, guest experience, horticulture, and more. Essential Job Functions Work directly with children of varying ages and abilities Responsible for the safety and well-being of campers Actively contribute to positive guest experiences Deliver STEM-based, educational programs to summer campers Introduce program participants to a variety of animal species through lessons, activities, and games Serve as a team player and work collaboratively with your co-teacher Communicate with families before and after camp All other duties as assigned Preferred Talents and Qualifications Age 18 years or older strongly preferred, but younger applicants with significant experience may be considered Experience facilitating or teaching youth in an education setting or related experience strongly preferred Must be able to pass a background check CPR and First Aid certifications preferred Ability to work collaboratively and with creativity Enthusiasm for nature and wildlife Superior organization and time management skills Demonstrated ability to work independently with little supervision Ability to supervise children with a kind yet firm authority

Pay:

$17.00 per hour

Work Location:

In person