Zoo Camp Group Leader at Toronto Zoo

Department: Learning & Engagement

Rate of Pay: $19.45 per hour

Duration: Approx. May – September 2026 (Non-Permanent)

Hours of Work: 40 hours per week

Number of Positions Open: 3

Looking for a career with a dynamic organization that is committed to protecting wildlife? We are interested in dedicated individuals who are positive, enthusiastic, and passionate about connecting people, animals, conservation science and traditional knowledge to fight extinction. Your Toronto Zoo makes animal well-being a priority in all operations and shows respect for all wildlife.

Position Purpose: The Seasonal Zoo Camp Group Leader is responsible for training, directing, and organizing staff (staff/supervisor liaison), generating and maintaining a cohesive, motivated team of counsellors, daily programming, and care of children with the focus of instilling an appreciation for nature, plus liaising with parents. Group Leader positions will be a combination of office / administrative work and time spent on-site with various groups providing coaching and feedback and support to the counsellors, as well as providing camper assistance as required. This position will assist and provide support in implementing the Strategic Plan.

Core Role Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain, and lead a team of counsellors, and direct/organize staff as required.
• Develop rotating staff schedules.
• Act as a role model for other staff (punctual, organized, take issues seriously, be professional, provide an outstanding camp experience for children).
• Assist in the daily monitoring of Zoo Camp Counsellors to ensure a high standard of work is being maintained.
• Provide daily/ ongoing coaching to Zoo Camp Counsellors and feedback to the supervisor.
• Planning and delivering age-appropriate and interactive daily programming for campers.
• Create training manual and training schedule for Zoo Camp counsellors.
• Deliver a comprehensive training program for staff.
• Oversee each team’s development of Zoo Camp weekly programming in conjunction with a Learning & Engagement Coordinator and ensure that themes are carried out throughout the summer.
• Liaise with Learning & Engagement Coordinator regarding any special requests for behind-the-scenes, Zoomobile, enrichments, etc.
• Ensure Zoo Camp t-shirts are counted and distributed in an organized and accurate manner. As requested, sell additional shirts to campers through the registration management system.
• Receiving and processing Zoo Camp additions forms received in person (Before & After Care), charging these items through the registration management system, and providing customers with receipt.
• Printing of attendance sheets and inputting of daily attendance through the registration management system.
• Confirm Zoo Camp schedules and virtual / in-person behind-the-scenes for the day with counsellors and Wildlife Care staff.
• Assist with camper check-in and sign-out and liaising with parents at Drop-Off/ by phone or virtually where required.
• Lead weekly team meetings, develop agenda, record minutes, and develop an ongoing follow-up task list. Ensure that items on the follow-up task list are addressed by the appropriate staff.
• Follow appropriate health & safety protocols, including recognizing and reporting any hazards/ concerns.
• Regular cleaning of the work area to ensure it exceeds customer expectations and to ensure health & safety guidelines are adhered to, including picking up garbage, wiping high touch surfaces, etc.
• Completion of a satisfactory Vulnerable Sector Search required.
• Follows all policies and standard operating procedures.
• Attends appropriate training as required.
• Assists guests on-site as required and ensures excellent customer service is provided by Toronto Zoo staff.
• Other duties as assigned by Supervisor or their designate.
  
  

Technical Knowledge And Skills

• Must be enrolled in, or are a recent graduate of, post-secondary education, preferably in the education and/or biology field, or the equivalent amount of training and related experience.
• Experience working with children in a camp atmosphere.
• Experience leading educational programs is preferred.
• Demonstrated leadership experience while working with youth.
• Must have proven organizational ability, attention to detail, and the ability to maintain accurate, up to date, and comprehensive records.
• Must be able to work well independently and in a team.
• Demonstrate knowledge of animal, plant, and conservation issues.
• Experience and knowledge of interpretive teaching methods is an asset.
• Standard First Aid & CPR “C” certification required.
• Demonstrate an awareness of and commitment to sustainable practices.
• Familiarity with the Zoo and its exhibits is preferred.
• Must ensure all applicable licenses and certificates remain valid and in good standing. Copies of licenses and certificates to be provided at time of hire and upon renewal.
• Working knowledge of the Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act and WHMIS legislation an asset.
• Possess an unrestricted Class G driver’s license valid in the Province of Ontario along with a good driving record (preferred).
• Must be knowledgeable in the use of computerized programs and systems.
• Must be able to work weekends, shifts and holidays as scheduled.
• Must be able to deal with staff and public in a courteous and efficient manner.
• Capable of meeting the physical requirements of the position.
• Well-developed interpersonal skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively, in English, both written and verbal.
  
  

While we appreciate the interest of all applicants, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. The successful candidate may be required to provide a police reference check and/or driver’s abstract, at their own expense as a condition of employment. Candidates may be required to take a written and/or practical examination relevant to the position.

Your Toronto Zoo values the importance of inclusive recruitment practices and strives to create a workplace that reflects and celebrates the rich diversity of our city. Please let us know if you require specific accommodations to be in place before you begin the interview process. Your Toronto Zoo respects the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion and seeks to model these principles in all that we do. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workforce where all employees feel respected, supported and valued. We strive to create an environment that represents the rich diversity of our guests and our community and encourage applications from all qualified individuals who can contribute to enhancing our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. Applications are especially encouraged from racialized persons/persons of colour, Indigenous/Aboriginal People of North America, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ2S+ persons, and women. Your Toronto Zoo makes animal well-being a priority in everything we do, respecting wildlife, caring for our team, guest and community. We are a welcoming place to visit, volunteer, and work, united by a shared commitment to conservation, connection, and reconciliation. We blend science and traditional knowledge to protect species and their habitats, and we invite others to join us as Guardians of Wild, acting together to ensure wildlife and wild spaces thrive. This job posting is for an existing vacancy within our organization. Your Toronto Zoo uses artificial intelligence to screen, assess or select applicants. Join our Talent Community

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