Camp Inclusion Facilitator
Position Type: Part-Time/Seasonal
Location: Saint Louis Zoo – Forest Park
Department: Education
Classification: Non-Exempt/Hourly
Position Summary: Supporting campers ages 5 – 15 with inclusion needs, so that they can participate in our Zoo camp programs as fully as possible.
Responsibilities:
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Work with all campers in need of support, regardless of identified or diagnosed needs. Provide inclusion support for campers ages 5 to 15, to the maximum degree of involvement possible. Help adapt activities to ensure camper participation and success. Provide support to campers as they integrate into daily camp life. Facilitate camper relationships and encourage social interaction. Provide positive reinforcement and other behavioral interventions to facilitate camper involvement in the group and activities. Promote camper connection to animals and the Zoo, and enjoyment of the program. Work with all campers, counselors, or volunteers to help foster an inclusive environment for all campers. Communicate effectively with parents, Zoo educators, camp directors, and inclusion team regarding the needs of the participants. Maintain confidentiality. Complete all necessary camper documentation. Function effectively as a collaborative team member and a source of expertise and support, for counselors, camp community and education team members, while modeling a passion for inclusion. Provide families with the practical guidance they need to make a camper’s week the best week of their summer. Model a positive attitude, camp energy, compassion and empathy while on the job.
Qualifications: Passion for working with all children, regardless of their background or ability, and desire to provide the opportunity for them to play, learn and have positive social interactions. A bachelor’s degree in OT, PT, Special Ed Recreational Therapy or related field preferred. Experience working with neurodiverse populations and children of all abilities and ages a must. Demonstrated experience in assisting children with self-regulation challenges, and ability to work with challenging behaviors required. Ability to work both independently, and as a collaborative team member. Compassion, flexibility, a positive attitude and a desire to create a safe and fun learning environment for all children, that allows them to connect to the natural world. Must possess excellent customer service, organization and communication skills, and exemplify the Zoo’s values. Experience with trauma informed care preferred.
All successful candidates for this position will be required to undergo a criminal background check and a drug test. As this is a safety-sensitive role, a negative drug test result is mandatory. The drug test screens for five substances, including marijuana.
Physical Demands: Must be willing and able to work outside daily in the summer heat, walk around the Zoo up to 4-5 miles per day, and lift up to 40 lbs.
Work Schedule: Work 40 hours a week Monday to Friday, (some Thursday evenings 6 – 10 instead of Fridays), May 27th – August 7th.
About the Saint Louis Zoo: The world-renowned Saint Louis Zoo is dedicated to saving species and bringing people and wildlife together. The Saint Louis Zoo cares for approximately 12,000 animals, many of which are endangered, and is dedicated to local and global conservation to save wildlife. Learn more at: https://stlzoo.org/
The Zoo is committed to the Three Keys (Animals Always, People Matter, and Operational Excellence) and Core Values (Community, Creativity, Openness, Integrity, and Life-Work Balance. Learn more at: https://stlzoo.org/
About St. Louis, Mo: From Explore St. Louis: “Urban explorer, outdoor adventurer, aficionado of family fun – no matter your travel persona, you’ll find plenty to do in St. Louis. The city is brimming with free, world-class attractions and boasts an arts-and-culture scene that’s second to none. Plus, fans of fresh air will be surprised and delighted by our flourishing public parks, miles of trails and exhilarating waterways. Sprinkle in a bit of our secret sauce – the warmth and hospitality of the residents – and you’ll discover that St. Louis dishes up undeniably epic travel experiences. Don’t take our word for it, though. Come and see for yourself.” Learn more at https://explorestlouis.com/
