Help to inspire curiosity and a love of science in the next generation of conservationists! The Wilder Institute's Calgary Zoo is seeking seasonal full-time Summer Camp Leaders who will be responsible for creating and running a summer camp for a specific age group. The Summer Camp Leader will help to create meaningful and fun activities and experiences for participants in their groups.
Our Purpose | We act for wildlife; saving species and inspiring people to join us.
Our Core Values | Drive impact, nurture connection, cultivate hope, and be bold.
Contract:
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Start Date: July 2026
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End Date: August 2026
What you will do:
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Research, plan and implement a week-long camp program including compelling stories, crafts, games and engaging activities to be run for 7 weeks during summer
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Support before and after care programming team on a rotational basis
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Evaluate the program layout and content based on program performance and make adjustments where necessary
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Provide leadership and guidance in a variety of activities for camp participants
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Ensure the safety and appropriate supervision of all camp participants at all times
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Model leadership and behavior management of campers
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Establish and maintain strong rapport with camper’s parents, provide individualized feedback when necessary
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Present engaging education programs and tours ensuring accuracy of information and the maintenance of the conservation message based on the Wilder Institute's Calgary Zoo’s mandate
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Adhere to organizational policies and guidelines
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Maintain a safe, clean working environment for campers, animals, visitors, and staff
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Other related duties as required
What you will bring:
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At least 2 years background in natural history, zoology, biology, recreation/leisure and/or education acquired via university, college or equivalent work experience
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Experience working with children/youth 5-14 years old; preferably in a camp setting
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The ability to present information about nature and nature conservation in an entertaining and educational manner
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A background in any of the following is an additional asset: leading tours, storytelling, leading sing-a-longs, leading games and activities, and/or presenting zoo education programs
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Knowledge of the natural history of Alberta is an asset
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Knowledge related to the Wilder Institute's Calgary Zoo and its collection is an asset
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Demonstrable engaging oral and written communication skills
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Demonstrable commitment to providing exceptional customer service
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Successful candidate must be in possession of a First Aid certification
Additional Requirements:
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Successful candidates must provide a Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search prior to their first day of work
Working Conditions:
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Requires considerable on-grounds mobility where there are long periods of time spent on foot indoors and outdoors in all weather
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Pulling a wagon of educational resources on grounds to classrooms
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Some lifting may be required
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This seasonal position has very limited flexibility for multiple days off due to the condensed nature of the program
The Wilder Institute's Calgary Zoo is an outdoor facility and all staff working at the zoo must be comfortable working in a large variety of outdoor conditions. The Wilder Institute's Calgary Zoo follows the advice of Environment Canada when responding to temperature and air quality issues.
What the Zoo Offers:
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Discounts on food, beverage, and merchandise
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Participation in the Staff Pass Benefit plan
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A fun, rewarding work environment and the opportunity to work in a park full of wild animals
Are you ready to join one of Canada’s leaders in wildlife conservation? If this position suits your skills, experience and personal attributes, we want to talk to you.
Apply by doing the following:
- Watch this video about the conservation work being done at the Wilder Institute. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8J1VH1MBXm0)
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Submit your resume with an optional cover letter via our online application system.
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Fill in the Application questions:
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Confirm eligibility to work in Canada
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If hired, when would you be available to start?
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Do you have a valid Standard First Aid certificate or higher?
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If hired, what are your wage expectations?
Applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada.
If this position is a fit for you, we encourage you to apply with a resume and cover letter online by our application deadline: July 17, 2026.
The Wilder Institute strives to cultivate a workplace in which everyone feels welcome and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. As a conservation organization, we respect and value the diversity of all life and come together as individuals and teammates to achieve the organization’s mission and vision. We recognize the value of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and work to advance our culture to ensure diverse viewpoints are heard and everyone has an equitable chance to succeed and thrive.
This position is an existing vacancy within our organization. The Wilder Institute’s Calgary Zoo uses basic knockout questions in application to support screening; applications are otherwise assessed and selected by real humans.
All candidates are thanked for their applications and advised that they will be contacted once applications have been reviewed and a final decision has been made.
