Job Description

JOB SUMMARY

This is a seasonal entry-level position beginning in November 2026. Camp Guides are responsible for facilitating mission-driven programming on and off the Dallas Zoo campus. These individuals will actively engage audiences through educational programming, including weeklong summer camps for elementary-aged children. They must also be comfortable interpreting any topic relevant to zoo and wildlife conservation to a wide variety of audiences. This is a variable hour/temporary position which will be 40 hours per week when Summer Camps are taking place but otherwise up to a maximum of 29 hours per week. This position is budgeted for $15.00 per hour and there are two (2) openings.

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Deliver engaging, mission-driven experiences that inspire conservation action on behalf of wildlife:
• Reinforce and encourage interest in wildlife through age-appropriate, positive engagement with guests via programming focused on wildlife conservation;
• Actively encourage interest in wildlife through positive interactions with guests via interpretive presentations focused on Dallas Zoo conservation priorities;
• Keep current on wildlife conservation issues, interpretive techniques, and conservation psychology/community-based social marketing best practices;
• Interact positively and professionally with Dallas Zoo staff, interns, guests, and volunteers;
• Participate in and support zoo-wide initiatives, committees, and work groups;
• Understand and support Dallas Zoo’s Strategic and Master Plans and departmental goals;
• Follow all safety protocols and understand the position’s role in emergency procedures. Respond to emergencies as required;
• Instruct and mentor volunteers and interns: ensure compliance with Dallas Zoo’s interpretive practices and protocols;
• Assist with the beautification of our park by removing trash and debris whenever you see;
• Assist with and raise awareness for AZA SAFE programs and Dallas Zoo conservation efforts;
• Perform other duties as assigned.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• A Bachelor’s degree in any field related to interpretation, biology, education, or conservation is preferred;
• One year of experience in interpretation or education related to science, natural history, outdoor, environmental, or related field is preferred;
• Bilingual speaking and writing skills are preferred;
• Excellent presentation and public engagement skills required;
• Excellent natural history and wildlife conservation knowledge required with attention to scientific accuracy;
• Must maintain a high level of enthusiasm, energy, and creativity while performing interpretive programs on a regular basis;
• Must be comfortable working with and handling live animals;
• Must be a flexible, efficient, self-motivated team player and be solutions-oriented finding creative solutions to complex challenges;
• Must be able to establish and maintain an effective rapport with all levels of management, employees, interns, volunteers, and guests;
• Ability to represent the Dallas Zoo in a professional manner at all times;
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in emergency situations and to respond with appropriate action;
• Must be able to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above head, pull bend, climb stairs and ladders and carry up to 50 lbs.;
• Must be able to work holidays and weekends, both regular and irregular hours as required;
• Regular, reliable, and punctual attendance is an essential function of this position;
• Must be able to actively work outdoors in hot, cold, or inclement weather;
• Successful candidates must complete a pre-employment drug screening and background check;
• Must have a valid driver’s license to operate zoo vehicles, and reliable transportation.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by personnel assigned to this job and is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all duties to be assigned.