Seasonal Zoo Camp Instructor

The City of Atascadero is excited to open recruitment for a 

SEASONAL ZOO CAMP INSTRUCTOR! 

Become a member of an organization consisting of hardworking individuals who are passionate about making a positive impact through public service. The organizational environment encourages collaboration and productivity and is fostered by engaged management, all working for the betterment of the community.

The Central Coast Zoo is a small, 5-acre AZA accredited zoological facility managed by the City of Atascadero, which is a beautiful California central coast community located in San Luis Obispo County. We have a population of 30,000 residing in an area just under 27 square miles. Our community is a great place to live, work and raise a family! We are situated along Highway 101, halfway between the metropolitan areas of Los Angeles and San Francisco. The community is located in the Paso Robles wine region and is a short 20-minute drive to the beach and Highway 1. We are within a three-hour drive to Yosemite National Park and two hours to Monterey or Carmel. For those that enjoy the outdoors, we are close to four local lakes, a national forest and endless hiking and biking trails. 

• Build and maintain a strong sense of community between campers and staff, with competence and patience, individually and as part of a group, in various environments on Zoo grounds and in a classroom setting. 
• Ensure the safety and wellbeing of the campers under your supervision. 
• Adhere to and assist in the enforcement of all policies and procedures for camp operations. 
• Work cooperatively and compassionately with other Zoo staff. 
• Ensure all materials are prepared for each day. 
• Uphold all Zoo safety and personnel policies and support the overall mission.
• Exhibit consistent professional characteristics such as initiative, emotional maturity, and self-responsibility.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old and have the ability to interact with children of all ages. Previous experience in childcare is required, with a preference for candidates who have camp experience or a background in teaching. 

Enthusiastic, creative, and dependable. Capable of taking initiative and conducting activities on a timely schedule. Able to maintain attention and high level of energy or excitement for extended periods of time. Enjoy working as part of a team. Committed to contributing to the positive and inclusive culture of camp and fostering a love of learning in campers. Preferably working toward, or have a bachelor’s degree in Zoology, Early Childhood Education, Psychology, Conservation Education, Wildlife Conservation, Wildlife Biology, Zoo Science, or related field.

This position is temporary part-time with the City, and is not eligible for benefits, but is covered for Worker's Compensation, Paid Sick Leave in accordance with the Healthy Workplaces, Health Families Act of 2014 and enrolled in a FICA substitute program, as mandated by law.  Compensation is salary only.  A TB Test is required.