Looking for a part-time job that is a little different from the usual student job?
The Zoo Crew is hiring two university students to join our Animal Education Presenter team. Our presenters bring hands-on animal experiences to birthday parties, community events, schools, daycares and other programs throughout Ottawa.
This is an active, independent role for someone who genuinely enjoys working with people, is comfortable being the centre of attention and likes the idea of spending their workday making animal education fun.
Why You’ll Love This Job
- 7–21 hours per week with the majority of hours on weekends
- A great fit alongside a university schedule
- Build real experience in public speaking, education, leadership and customer service
- Work hands-on with a wide variety of animals
- No two shifts are quite the same, our programs take us all over Ottawa
- Opportunity for additional weekday hours when your schedule allows
- Bilingual presenters receive a higher hourly rate
What You’ll Do
- Lead fun, interactive animal presentations for children and families
- Transport animals and equipment to programs throughout Ottawa
- Safely handle and present a variety of small animals
- Turn animal facts into engaging, age-appropriate conversations and experiences
- Set up and pack up programs independently or with another presenter
- Communicate professionally and confidently with parents, clients and event organizers
- Help create the energetic, welcoming experience our clients expect from The Zoo Crew
Schedule & Availability
Weekend availability is essential for this position.
We are looking for team members who can regularly work weekends. Weekend shifts can fall on Saturdays, Sundays or both depending on our event schedule.
The role averages approximately 7–21 hours per week.
Additional weekday availability is a significant asset, particularly if you are available:
- During weekday daytime hours; and/or
- Between approximately 2:00 PM and 9:00 PM
A structured availability calendar is shared in advance so you know when you may be scheduled. Staff are expected to plan accordingly and manage shift swaps if time off is needed.
Who We’re Looking For
You might be a great fit if you are:
- Outgoing, engaging and comfortable speaking in front of groups
- Someone who naturally brings energy and personality to an experience
- Reliable, organized and able to work independently
- Comfortable working with children and families
- Interested in animals and willing to learn about a wide variety of species
- Comfortable driving throughout Ottawa and navigating different event locations
- Looking for a part-time position you can maintain alongside university
Bilingual English/French applicants are a hiring priority for these positions. English-only candidates will also be considered.
Previous experience with children, animals, teaching, recreation, camps, customer service or public speaking is an asset but it is not required.
If your previous work experience is in a completely different field, that's okay. We hire for personality, reliability and potential as well as experience. We just need you to tell us why this role makes sense for you.
Requirements
- Valid Class G driver's licence
- Reliable access to a vehicle - required, as presenters transport animals and equipment to programs
- Able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs
- Vulnerable Sector/Background Check required
- Reliable weekend availability
Application Questions
We receive a lot of applications from people who love animals, so we'd like to know a little more about you.
Please answer the following when applying:
- Why does this particular job interest you? If your resume doesn't include experience with children, animals, education or presenting, please help us understand why you think this role would be a good fit for you.
A Little About Us
The Zoo Crew provides hands-on animal education programs throughout the Ottawa area. Our programs are designed to be educational, interactive and most importantly fun.
Our presenters aren't simply there to recite animal facts. We want people who can connect with a room, make a child laugh, answer an unexpected question, adapt when plans change and turn an animal encounter into something families remember.
If that sounds like the kind of job you would enjoy, we would love to hear from you.
Pay: $19.00-$21.00 per hour
Application question(s):
- Why does this particular job interest you? If your resume doesn't include experience with children, animals, education or presenting, please help us understand why you think this role would be a good fit for you.
Language:
Licence/Certification:
- Class G Licence and a reliable vehicle (required)
Work Location: In person
