BZ Adjunct Educator- After Care & Birthdays

Job Description

Job Title: Adjunct Conservation Educator – Camp After Care & Birthday

Location: Bronx Zoo

Reports To: Program Coordinator

Location: Bronx Zoo

Job Type: Seasonal

Department: Education

Start Date: June 2025

Schedule: Summer: Tuesday – Saturday, 9:30am-5:30pm (appx 38 hours/ week)

Pay Rate: $23.00 per hour

Who We Are

The WCS Education Department works across our five wildlife parks: Bronx Zoo, Central Park Zoo, Queens Zoo, Prospect Park Zoo, and New York Aquarium. Our mission is to inspire a diverse and inclusive movement of conservation advocates by sparking connection with animals and nature, enhancing scientific literacy through hands-on investigation, and engaging constituents in stewardship and action to conserve wildlife and wild places.

WCS is proud to be an equal opportunity employment workplace dedicated to pursuing and hiring a diverse workforce. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive work and learning environment and look for future team members who share our values.

Job Overview

This is a unique opportunity to lead a camp after-care program and assist in the planning and facilitation of birthday parties at an informal science institution. T he Adjunct will report to work on-site at the Bronx Zoo; this is not a remote work opportunity. During the work week, the Adjunct will assist with camp administrative tasks, plan aftercare activities, teach exciting science content to campers in the aftercare program, and train and supervise aftercare counselors. On Saturdays, the Adjunct will work with the Program Coordinator to prepare for and facilitate birthday parties at the zoo.

In both aspects of the job, the Adjunct will liaise with parents and zoo staff, facilitate fun and engaging activities, welcome participants with diverse interests, abilities, and backgrounds, and maintain a lively learning environment. The Adjunct will be expected to provide support for camp and birthdays as needed throughout their shifts, and will have the opportunity to learn about different teaching styles and methods, and utilize restorative practices in group management.

Responsibilities

• Learn and facilitate summer camp aftercare and birthday party activities that are fun and engaging while also having educational value.
• Communicate with parents and staff via email, phone and in-person meetings as necessary and assist with various camp related administrative tasks.
• During the regularly scheduled camp day, provide support to camp instructors and managers. e.g. shuttling children to and from locations within our parks and late camper check-in.
• Supervise and interact with Conservation Camp Counselors, college interns, and volunteers when they are assisting with programs.
• Help prepare and carry out all the birthday party components, including signage, gift bags, and activities.
• Assist with general maintenance and upkeep of party and aftercare areas and supplies, and clean-up after each birthday party and aftercare session.
• Supervise and interact with families and children ranging in age from 4-17 years old.
• Maintain a fun and lively learning environment
• Comply with all policies and procedures as presented by WCS and the WCS Education Department
  
  

Qualification Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalency
• One-year prior teaching experience (can be in an out-of-school environment)
• Ability to work within a highly team-oriented environment, as well as independently
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Reliable, flexible and accountable
• Saturday availability is required
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 25lbs and spend long periods of time outdoors
• Must possess a valid driver’s license
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Educational background in ecology, environmental science or education
• Some experience handling or working with animals
• Bilingual/Spanish speaker is a plus
  
  

Research shows that women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that an applicant meets 100% of the qualifications for a given role. Therefore, if much of this job description describes YOU, then YOU are highly encouraged to apply.

Workplace Environment

• We value team members and community partners from all backgrounds and cultures with different skills, abilities, and perspectives
• We ensure that everyone has an opportunity to fully contribute to our mission.
  
  

Benefits And Perks

• We value creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and building a culture where everyone is welcomed and can flourish.
• As PT staff, you will receive access to Bronx Zoo and other WCS parks
  
  

Salary Range

$23.00/Hour