Friends of the National Zoo is looking for individuals who have experience working with children ages 10-15 for the Director position at their overnight camp at the Zoo’s Conservation Biology Institute in Front Royal, Virginia. Applicants must have strong organizational skills, experience in either camp or informal instructional settings, knowledge of the natural sciences, and a love and appreciation for wildlife and the outdoors.
Qualifications:
- At least 25 years of age.
- Bachelor’s Degree required; concentration in science or education preferred.
- Extensive experience in informal education and within camp administration.
- Experience facilitating team building and large group activities
- Current certification in American Red Cross First Aid and CPR required; additional lifeguard certification preferred (must be obtained by June 01, 2013).
- Valid driver’s license with clean driving record.
- Able to perform physical duties such as
- Hiking in hilly terrain 4+ miles/day
- You must have a desire and ability to work outdoors (in all kinds of weather)
- Stand for extended periods of time
- Ability to participate in high energy games or activities
- Able to make quick, sound decisions
- Responsible, self-motivated, and enthusiastic.
Responsibilities:
- Lives on-site during 6 week camp session.
- Reports to and works directly with the permanent camp director in the FONZ office to ensure the smooth operation of the program.
- Responsible for the overall leadership of camp, including the health and welfare of campers.
- Supervises all aspects of camp program including:
- Staff management of senior counselors, counselors, and nurse.
- Serves as on-site liaison with SCBI, George Mason University, and catering.
- Implements all established camp policies and procedures.
- Maintains budget guidelines.
- Leads Senior Counselors in performing daily administrative tasks, including, but not limited to scheduling, staff and camper assignments, and ordering supplies.
- Creates and leads one, 1.5 hour class per week around the theme of conservation, nature, wildlife and the outdoors.
- Facilitates programs for staff training week.
- Conducts camp and staff evaluations.
Term of Employment:
Tuesday, June 25- Sunday, August 11, 2013
Stipend:
Competitive stipend includes housing and meals.
Location and Lodging:
All camp staff live at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute in Front Royal, Virginia.