Educator - Zoo Camp (Seasonal)

Note: This position is fully outdoors and requires extensive walking through Zoo grounds (hills and inclines) in all weather conditions. Part-time, seasonal, hourly, non-exempt.

About the role

Under general direction of the Education Manager and Education Team, the Zoo Camp Educator promotes the Zoo and its mission through implementing Zoo Camps.

Responsibilities

• Supervises groups of up to 15 children while delivering camp curriculum in an engaging, age-appropriate manner, working with a particular age group within the 3-13 age range.
• 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.
• Greets every guest with a smile and thanks guests for supporting and visiting the Zoo.
• Answers phone calls, voice mails, and e-mails promptly.
• Ensures the Zoo’s presentation standards for cleanliness and maintenance are met by keeping work areas clean, picking up trash, and reporting unsafe or unsightly conditions.
• Associates with guests to assist and share information.
• Maintains a clean, neat appearance and adheres to the Zoo’s uniform dress code.
• Stays informed about happenings at the Zoo, such as reading employee communications and attending meetings.
• Reflects the qualities outlined in the Guest Relations Statement and the Employee Pledge.
• Other duties as assigned to maintain efficient and quality zoo operations.

Requirements

• Minimum 18 years of age.
• Minimum 2 years of college coursework in life sciences, zoology, education, or environmental sciences or equivalent experience preferred.
• 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.

Skills

• Basic knowledge of biology and zoology preferred.
• Ability to organize, plan, collaborate, and implement educational presentations.
• Skilled in improvisation.
• 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

• 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.
• Ability to negotiate the zoo work environment including behind-the-scenes, lawns, gravel, hilltop, and attic storage.
• Involves walking out-of-doors 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.
• Ability to work outdoors most of the day.

Tools Used

• Two-way radios
• Electric cart
• Personal computer and software (Word, Excel, and Outlook)
• Printer
• Telephone system
• Bio Facts and various learning-based materials
• Wagons

Pay

$18.40/hour

Schedule

Seasonal position, up to 16-40 hours/work week during school breaks, varying during the school year.

• Spring Camp: March 30 - April 3
• Summer Camp: June 15 – August 14 (Must commit to minimum 7 of the 10 weeks of Summer Camp)
• Fall Camp: November 23-25 & 27
• Winter Camp: December 21 - December 31 (No camp on Christmas Day 12/25 or New Year's Day 1/1)