CAMP COUNSELOR ZOO
The Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden (MPZBG) is seeking an energetic, experienced professional to be part of the Zoo team. Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden is the number one family tourist attraction in Evansville and is a significant cultural institution for our community. MPZBG provides enjoyable educational experiences to help others understand, appreciate and care for our natural world, and to promote conservation and sustainability in the region. MPZBG has an opening for a Camp Counselor for the Camp ZOOfari summer day camp.
Position: Camp Counselor
Organization: Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden, City of Evansville
Classification: Seasonal Part-time, Non-Exempt
Schedule: Flexible hours, up to 39 hours/week
Reports to: Conservation Education Curator
JOB DESCRIPTION:
The Camp Counselor will assist with the execution of the MPZBG Camp ZOOfari summer day camp, ensuring that Zoo campers have an enjoyable, educational, and safe experience. The Camp Counselor will supervise campers and volunteers during the implementation of Zoo Camp activities. Specifically, the Camp Counselor will take lead on managing children in camper groups as they complete camp activities. The chosen applicant will gain hands-on experience and professional growth in environmental education, youth management, volunteer coordination, and camp curriculum and operations.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
· Assist staff with Camp ZOOfari summer day camp operations.
· Supervise campers and ZooTeen volunteers in the execution of camp-related duties.
· Assist with all camp curriculum planning, including preparation and distribution of activity supplies.
· Implement all camp curriculum through activities, lessons, and tours.
· Assist with logistics for camp group movements within the daily camp agenda.
· Assist campers with their physical, social, emotional, and behavioral needs.
· Model, emphasize and enforce camp policies and procedures to all camp staff and campers.
· Perform other duties as assigned by the Education Curator.
POSITION CRITERIA:
Education/Experience/Knowledge/Skills -
- Must be at least 18 years of age and have a valid driver license.
- High school diploma or equivalent is required, some college course work preferred.
- Must be experienced working with children in a leadership or educational role.
- Experience with the Mesker Park Zoo camp or a similar day camp program preferred.
- Experience in education, environmental education, camp administration, and/ or childcare preferred.
- Must be able to communicate effectively and professionally with staff, volunteers, and the public.
- Ability to maintain a friendly and professional demeanor and appearance.
- Ability to work independently and cooperatively as part of a team.
- Flexibility to serve as needed based on educational and operational demands.
- Demonstrates self-motivation, ambition, and enthusiasm in work ethic.
- Demonstrates integrity, dependability, and professionalism in personal conduct.
- Must have excellent oral & written communication skills.
- Must be thorough, organized and detail oriented.
Physical Requirements & Work Environment -
- Must be willing to work up to 39 hours per week, M-F between 7:30am & 5:30pm.
- Must be available for Camp Training May 26-29.
- Must be available to work most of the 8 camp sessions from June 1 – July 31.
- Involves activity indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions.
- Must be able to stand, walk on uneven terrain, and remain on feet for extended periods of time.
- Able to lift moderate to heavy items (up to 50 pounds).
Position : 3111973
Code : 1-28
Type : INTERNAL & EXTERNAL
Location : MESKER PARK ZOO
Posting Start : 02/25/2026
Posting End : 12/31/9999
