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Job Description / Duties

Working Title: Summer Camp Instructor
Job Class: Interpretive Naturalist 1
Agency: Minnesota Zoological Garden

Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
Date Posted: 11/22/2022
Closing Date: 02/17/2023
Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Minnesota Zoological Garden / Zoological Gardens-MAPE
Division/Unit: Education / Zoo Camp
Work Shift/Work Hours: TBD
Days of Work: TBD
Travel Required: No
Salary Range: $21.43 - $31.00 / hourly
Classified Status: Classified
Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE
End Date: August 25, 2023
FLSA Status: Nonexempt
Telework Eligible: No
Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes
Make a difference in the lives of Minnesotans.
The work you’ll do is more than just a job. Join the talented, engaged and inclusive workforce dedicated to creating a better Minnesota.

Job Summary
This job announcement will be used to fill up to 20 part-time Zoo Summer Camp positions in the Education Department.

This position assists in the implementation of education zoo camp programs which include (but are not restricted to) PK-12th grade day camps. This position is responsible for promoting the importance of conservation, and the Minnesota Zoo’s mission of connecting people, animals, and the natural world to save wildlife.

Job duties include, but are not limited to:

Present established education programs in a professional, high-quality manner according to the appropriate curricula and established lesson plans.

Prepare for programs to be knowledgeable of the content and area, and create a safe and inviting learning environment for camp participants.

Integrate Conservation messages into all education programming and experiences participants are able to act on behalf of wildlife.

Perform other duties as assigned to ensure the smooth functioning of the department and maintain the reputation of the organization as a viable business partner.

Qualifications / Required Skills

Minimum Qualifications
A Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Zoology, Ecology, Wildlife Management, Natural Interpretation, Education, or closely related,
AND EITHER one year experience developing and/or implementing environmental/nature, socio-cultural, historical, or closely related programs at a zoo, nature center, or aquarium, for all ages, especially early childhood audiences
OR 1 year experience as a teacher in a formal educational setting teaching biology, life science, or closely related course for all ages, especially early childhood audiences

Preferred Qualifications
Demonstrated knowledge of and proven experience in environmental, experiential, and/or outdoor learning theory and methodology
Evidence of exceptional interpersonal skills
Effective oral and written communication skills
Effective teaching and presentation skills, practices, and processes
Knowledge of zoology, biology, life sciences, and environmental sciences
Knowledge of conservation, wildlife biology, and sustainability issues
Knowledge of biological concepts and in-depth educational skills
Knowledge of the Minnesota Zoo operational services, philosophy, objectives, and guidelines
Physical Requirements
Ability to stand for long periods of time and walk long distances on uneven terrain.
Ability to carry and use two-way portable radios to communicate with all zoo staff.
Flexible availability on weekdays throughout the duration of camp

Additional Requirements
Employment verification checks, criminal background checks including fingerprints, and driver's license check.

Additional Information

Application Details
How to Apply
Go to website: https://mnzoo.org/us/job-opportunities/
Select Summer Camp Instructor position
Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page

If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.

If you have questions about the position, contact Michele Lamm at michele.lamm@state.mn.us.

To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Michele Lamm at michele.lamm@state.mn.us.

About Minnesota Zoological Garden
Created by the State of Minnesota, the Minnesota Zoo opened in 1978 with a mission to connect people, animals, and the natural world to save wildlife. Cutting-edge exhibits provide exciting experiences with animals and their habitats introducing guests to species from around the globe. Education programs engage audiences at the Zoo, throughout the region, and around world. Conservation programs protect endangered species and preserve critical ecosystems

Why Work for Us
Diverse Workforce
We are committed to continually developing a workforce that reflects the diversity of our state and the populations we serve. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve the people of Minnesota.

A recent engagement survey of State of Minnesota employees found:

95% of employees understand how their work helps achieve their agency’s mission
91% of employees feel trusted to do their jobs
88% of employees feel equipped to look at situations from other cultural perspectives when doing their job
87% of employees report flexibility in their work schedule

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. The State of Minnesota recognizes that a diverse workforce is essential and strongly encourages qualified women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans to apply.

We will make reasonable accommodations to all qualified applicants with disabilities. If you are an individual with a disability who needs assistance or cannot access the online job application system, please contact the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and indicate what assistance is needed.

Salary: Salary Range: $21.43 - $31.00 / hourly

Contact Information

If you have questions about the position, contact Michele Lamm at michele.lamm@state.mn.us.

Employer Profile

The Zoo encompasses a 485 acre campus and is home to more than 5,300 animals with about 1.29 million guests visiting annually. The Zoo is a coordinator of international conservation and breeding programs and is the State’s largest environmental educator with over 400,000 participants annually. The Zoo’s conservation programs protect endangered species and preserve critical ecosystems and its education programs engage audiences at the Zoo, throughout our region, and around the world.