RECREATION INSTRUCTOR A (CAMP INSTRUCTOR)

job description

SCHEDULE Approximately 40 hours per week; Monday-Friday; 8-hour shifts which may start as early as 7:00 a.m. and as late as 5:30 p.m.; possible one (1) overnight shift on Thursday, August 7 th ; tentative Zoo Camp dates: June 12-August 8, 2025

LOCATION Los Angeles Zoo - 5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90027

DUTIES / JOB DESCRIPTION
This is an at-will exempt intermittent position which can be terminated at any time without cause.

Recreation Instructors/Camp Instructors work under the general supervision of the Camp Director (or Education Curators), and are assigned to a camp in which there normally are 20 campers. Some activities may be held outdoors and staff may be exposed to the sun and heat for a prolonged period of time. Zoo Camp requires daily walks (a minimum of 30 minutes) through the Zoo and may walk two (2) or more miles per day. The work consists of, but not limited to:
• Instructing the campers and developing rapport with the campers to ensure a productive, creative, and enjoyable camp experience
• Leading tours
• Teaching campers (Pre-K to 8 th grade) pre-developed curriculum (some development may be required
• Working closely with camp counselors and directing their daily activities
• Planning and presenting programs
• Supervising game time
• Setting up necessary equipment and supplies
• Assisting with the general maintenance of the camp area
• Assisting in taking inventories of craft and snack supplies
• Maintaining communication with parents/guardians
• Interacting with children and monitors their engagement in program

• Other assigned duties as assigned by Zoo Curators (ex: preparation of crafts, office work, errands, etc.)

REQUIREMENTS
• Experience working with a group of up to 20 children, Pre-K to 8 th grade, is preferred.
• At least two (2) years of college with experience in teaching or instructing (preferably in education, biology, zoology, psychology, or other related fields) is preferred.
• Must have an appreciation for nature and conservation.
• Must also have a willingness to work around animals, including reptiles, mammals, birds, and insects.

• Must have a good knowledge of first aid techniques.
• Must have the ability to lead activities, including tours, arts & crafts, sports and games
• Ability to problem solve and communicate effectively with parents, campers, co-workers, and supervisors.
• Instructors are required to learn and sing camp songs.
• Must be team-oriented.
• Must possess excellent oral communication and customer service skills.
• Must be able to participate in program activities including walking and standing for long periods of time, squatting, kneeling, lifting/carrying at least 15 lbs.
• Must be able to follow directions, be on time, and reliable.
• Candidates must be available during 9 weeks of camp, including holidays as required

• Bilingual is a plus.

How to apply

HOW TO APPLY

Interested candidates should email an updated resume or a completed City application to lazoo.personnel@lacity.org and the subject line must include:

REC INSTRUCTOR A (CAMP INSTRUCTOR) - CAMP 2025

Resumes and/or applications must be received by 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 20, 2025, or until sufficient applications have been received. The Los Angeles Zoo reserves the right to pre-screen all resumes in order to arrive at a more a manageable candidate pool.

*2025 program subject to funding availability.

Summer Jobs

Closing Date/Time: 3/20/25

• 

• City of Los Angeles

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