Job Description

The Teen Program Assistant Role supports summer Zoo Crew teen programs within the Conservation Education team. This role proactively reports teen and program needs, supports teen growth and development, provides feedback to Teen Programs Staff throughout the summer and assists with overall teen program responsibilities. Requires a high level of energy and enthusiasm, creativity, flexibility, and the ability to work with youth ages 13-17 in both in and outdoor settings. The Program Assistant will take part in mentoring new and returning Zoo Crew teens in conservation, interpretation, and facilitation of program activities with the goal of cultivating the next generation of conservation heroes. Individuals filling this role are expected to work a minimum of 10 weeks during the summer.

Our Mission: Houston Zoo connects communities with animals, inspiring action to save wildlife.
Our Vision: Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife.

Job Duties and Responsibilities
• Support Zoo Crew teens in ensuring the health and safety of all teen program participants is maintained throughout the day.
• Provides basic first aid when needed.
• Mentor teens in various aspects of programming including working with children, public speaking, leadership, and conservation projects.
• Responsible for tracking inventory, maintaining stocked, clean, and organizing supply and storage areas, and reporting to leadership of any program needs ahead of time.
• Partners with leadership and assists in the evaluation of the Zoo Crew program and provides support and feedback throughout the summer.
• Adds to the Zoo Crew program environment by demonstrating flexibility and adaptability.
• Assists with opening and closing responsibilities, as well as logistics throughout the day.
• Incorporates feedback into their daily work to improve and build upon skills.
• Coaches and supports members of Teen Leadership Council in a positive and approachable manner as instructed by leadership.
• Influences positive decision making as it pertains to teen support, safety, activity planning, and facilitation.
• Responds to minor first aid and behavioral calls, as qualified and necessary.
• Interacts in a creative, positive, and educational way with all Zoo guests including campers and teens, parents and caregivers, as well as general Zoo guests.
• Prepares and breaks down facilities and materials used in programs and activities.
• Establishes and maintains a positive atmosphere to ensure the highest level of performance and guest service.
• Abides by all Houston Zoo policies and procedures, including safety protocol and wearing the appropriate Zoo uniform.
• Assists full-time Teen Programs Staff with coordination and mentoring of Zoo Crew Program Teens.
• Provide input into the evaluation of teens at the end of Camp.
• Completes online Abuse Prevention Training by first date of camp training.
• Submits evaluation feedback at the end of summer programs as requested by Supervisor.
• Inform supervisor on duty if any emergencies or significant discipline issues arise.
• Contributes to saving animals in the wild through reduction of waste, water and energy use and inspiring guests and staff to take wildlife-saving actions.

Education and Experience
• Previous experience examples include, but are not limited to:
◦ Associate degree (AA) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school
◦ Six months to one-year related experience and/or training in a camp setting OR
◦ Equivalent combination of education and experience
• High level of communication skills, with strong attention to detail and time management.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team within diverse environments, while treating everyone with respect.
• Ability to facilitate programs effectively and comfortably with audiences of different backgrounds and experiences.
• Willingness to learn.
• American Red Cross/ American Heart Association First & CPR certification required.

About the Houston Zoo
The Houston Zoo is made up of many moving parts with over 6,000 permanent residents (our animals) for whom we provide housing, meals, medical care and, yes, even education! There are over 2 million guests each year who come to experience our incredible variety of animals and ecosystems, as well as attend special private and public events and entertainment. Our dedicated staff works around the clock to ensure that the Zoo is always running smoothly for the safety and well-being of our residents and guests. We strive to ensure the protection of all the counterparts of the animals we have at the Zoo and in the wild.

Join the Houston Zoo and become a part of an organization that is focused on the preservation of wildlife and their habitats by combining conservation with education and promotion of sustainable livelihoods in the local communities. Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Disclaimer

The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as a complete inventory of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor. Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities. To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Continued employment remains on an at-will basis.

Benefits
Full-time, regular positions are offered the following benefits.
• Medical and Prescription Drug
• Vision
• Dental
• Basic Life AD&D (100% Employer Paid)
• Short Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
• Long Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
• Supplemental Life
• Flexible Spending Account / Health Savings Account
• 401k, with employer match

Full-time and Part-Time, regular positions are offered the following additional benefits.
• Free Zoo Membership
• Free Guest Passes
• Discounts on Food, Merchandise, Attractions, Admission and Programs
• Free parking
Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer

We thank all applicants in advance for their interest in this position, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.