Teen Program Coordinator (Zoo)

Principal Duties: 

1. Training and organization (prior to June 15) 

• Train with education staff on animal handling and interpretation.
• Train with zoo keepers on general animal husbandry skills.
• Communicate with past Zoo Crew participants and new applicants.
• Organize contact list and applications.
• Set up the online scheduling system.
• Facilitate virtual orientation for Zoo Crew participants and parents. 

2. Program coordination

• Supervise, evaluate, and effectively manage Zoo Crew activities and projects.
• Organize daily and weekly schedules of activities, projects, and educational sessions with Zoo Crew, education staff, and zoo keepers.
• Communicate schedule updates with teens and parents.
• Train teens on interpretation and proper animal handling (may include discovery carts, informal animal presentations, barnyard, conservation projects, etc.).
• Train teens on animal husbandry skills (may include cleaning habitats, exercising animals, creating enrichments, water testing, etc.).
• Update educational materials and manuals.
• Organize an end-of-season celebration.
• Be a supportive team member by sharing ideas, assisting others, and participating in meetings. 

3. Miscellaneous duties

• Attend training to learn to properly handle animals including mammals, reptiles, invertebrates, and small hoof stock.
• Assist with spring programs such as outreaches, field trips, and special events.
• Other duties as assigned. 

Qualifications: 

Education & Experience Requirements:

• B.A. or B.S. degree preferred or minimum 3 years of college study in environmental education, biology, education, or related field.
• Previous experience as an informal or formal educator preferred.
• Animal handling and care experience preferred.

Competency & Knowledge Requirements: 

• Ability to work with teens ages 13-17 and communicate with people of all ages.
• Working knowledge of animals, conservation, learning styles, and interpretation.
• Public speaking and presentation skills.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Self-motivated, takes initiative.
• Ability to operate as a member of a team.
• Computer skills including Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint. 

Required Hours & Availability:

• Start date negotiable; must be available part time or full time in May for training.
• Zoo Crew program takes place June 15 – August 21, 2026.
• Typical work week is Monday-Thursday 8:00-5:00 and Friday 8:00-2:00.