Educator - Part Time (Seasonal)

Are you passionate about connecting people of all ages to the wonders of wildlife and conservation? Join our team to inspire curiosity and foster a love for nature in a hands-on, fun, and creative environment! Note: This position is fully outdoors and requires extensive walking through Zoo grounds (hills and inclines) in all weather conditions.

Position Status: Part-Time, seasonal, Hourly, Non-Exempt
Compensation: $18.40 per hour
Schedule: Seasonal position, up to 16-40 hours/work week during school breaks, varies during the school year.

About the Role

Under the general direction of the Education Manager and Education Team, an Educator promotes the Zoo and its mission through implementing the Zoo Safari program; Zoo Camp; Home School programs; and presenting educational activities at on-site and off-site events. This position collaborates with fellow staff to bring the best Environmental and Animal Science curriculum to all participants (ages 3-15). You will form lifelong memories for program participants, running a variety of programs focusing on the environment, ecology, and conservation in a fun, creative, and hands-on manner.

Responsibilities

• Twilight & Overnight Safari Program:
  • Presents educational programs for Safari guests focused on the environment, animals, conservation, and zoos in a fun, creative, and hands-on manner.
  • Interacts constantly with Zoo Safari guests and staff to create a rewarding experience.
  • Sets up for Zoo Safari program and ensures proper and timely cleanup of the areas used.
  • Maintains a professional appearance and attitude at all times as a representative of the Zoo.
  • Prepares various educational materials for Zoo Safari program and maintains inventory of supplies.
  • Coordinates with other departments for animal encounters and programming needs behind-the-scenes.
  • Develops and leads or coordinates any special program requests as required.
  • Monitors activities to ensure adherence to rules and safety procedures.
  • Responds to guest inquiries, complaints, and comments according to Zoo guest relations procedures.
  • Responds to health and welfare issues of Zoo Safari guests.
  • Distributes, collects, and submits program evaluations for analysis.
• Events:
  • Assists with preparation and presentation of event education activities.
  • Assists with volunteer check-in and supervision at events.
• Experience Team:
  • Weekend availability required.
  • Guides guests on walking tours through zoo grounds.
  • Presents educational interpretation for zoo guests focused on the environment, animals, conservation, and zoos.
  • Hosts Animal Experiences and provides educational information.
• Zoo Camp:
  • Supervises groups of up to 15 children while delivering camp curriculum in an engaging, age-appropriate manner.
  • Leads environmental and animal science activities, such as hands-on learning activities, games, crafts, stories, and songs.
  • Supervises and ensures the safety and well-being of assigned group.
• Secondary Duties:
  • Other duties as assigned to maintain efficient and quality zoo operations.
  • Greets guests with a smile and thanks them for supporting and visiting the Zoo.
  • Answers phone calls, voice mails, and e-mails promptly.
  • Maintains the Zoo’s presentation standards for cleanliness and reports unsafe or unsightly conditions.
  • Assists guests and shares information.
  • Maintains a clean, neat appearance and adheres to the Zoo’s uniform dress code.
  • Stays informed about happenings at the Zoo by reading employee communications and attending meetings.

Requirements

• Applicant must be a minimum of 18 years of age.
• Minimum 2 years of college coursework in life sciences, zoology, education, or environmental sciences or equivalent experience preferred.
• BA in Education, Environmental Studies, Life Sciences, Zoology, or Biology preferred, but not required.
• Minimum of 6 months experience in informal presentations.
• Prefer experience in an environmental education setting.
• Successful completion of a Department of Justice background check.
• First Aid and CPR certification required.
• TB tests and Tetanus vaccinations as necessary.
• Authorized to work in the United States. At this time, the Zoo does not sponsor employment or internship visas.

Skills

• Basic knowledge of biology and zoology preferred.
• Ability to organize, plan, collaborate, and implement educational presentations.
• Skilled in improvisation with an energetic and engaging personality.
• Ability to present educational programs to diverse audiences and large groups of people.
• Ability to envision and implement innovative solutions and ideas.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge of computer software including word processing and database programs.
• Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, and guests.
• Ability to exercise safe work habits.
• Awareness of, sensitivity to, and empathy with animals.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Must be able to lift 50 pounds occasionally and 10 or fewer pounds frequently.
• Ability to exert a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to push, pull, or otherwise move objects.
• Ability to run, kneel, sit on the ground/floor, squat, and stand for long periods of time.
• Ability to negotiate the zoo work environment including behind-the-scenes, lawns, gravel, hilltop, and attic storage.
• Must be available to work overnight.
• Involves walking outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Must be physically able to operate a variety of machines and equipment including electric carts, telephones, printers, two-way radios, projectors, and copiers.