Education Program Specialist

About the Role

The Education Program Specialist designs, develops, administers, facilitates, and evaluates Zoo education curriculum, resources, and program strategies for a variety of audiences within the Zoo and the community to support the Zoo’s conservation and education missions.

Key programs this position will oversee include:

• Life Science Career Lab – Strengthens self-efficacy in marginalized youth (ages 14-18) through connections to individuals in the field, job readiness skill-practice, and creation of a personalized career pathway.
• Buffalo Zoo Camps – Helps hundreds of animal-loving youths (ages 4-12) find their community each year through learner-centered programs that include meeting animal ambassadors, exploring the campus, and engaging in hands-on activities to strengthen their relationship with wildlife and each other.

Responsibilities

• Plans, organizes, implements, and evaluates educational content for Zoo programs for audiences of all ages in a variety of on- and off-site settings, including camps, Life Science Career Lab, early childhood programs, and homeschool programs.
• Updates and evaluates all assigned programs and curricula at least annually (some programs may require more frequent review), creating new programs and education initiatives as appropriate.
• Ensures Zoo programs and curriculum meet State of New York academic standards and national science benchmarks when applicable and align with the Zoo’s strategic and education plans.

Requirements

• College degree (e.g., Bachelor’s degree in zoo-related science and/or education, or Associate’s degree with equivalent experience).
• Minimum 6 months of teaching experience preferred; background in biology, zoology, or life science is desired.
• Both paid and unpaid experience are considered.
• Curriculum writing, technical, and organizational skills are essential.
• Ability to engage a wide range of audiences.
• Animal handling experience preferred.

Skills

• Well-developed writing, organizational, and communication skills.
• Grant writing and management experience is helpful.
• Ability to supervise in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale.
• Working knowledge of personal computers and software applications.

Pay

Salary range is $19.00–$21.00 per hour (commensurate with experience).

Benefits

Full-time benefits available include:

• Health plan, HSA/HRA, FSA
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Dental and vision coverage
• 403B retirement plan
• Annual leave time, holiday time, and sick time (sick time available upon hire; other benefits available the month following successful completion of a 60-day introductory probation period)