Zoo Educator

Principal Function: This position serves as a lead educator for onsite and offsite programming that advances the zoo’s mission and goals. This requires a strong knowledge of program content, the ability to teach varying age levels, and the skill and comfortability to handle various types of animals. Primary types of programming include school groups, homeschool classes, community outreach, early childhood programs, day camps, and overnight programs. Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and drive zoo vehicles on a regular basis. Must be able to work evenings, overnights, and weekends as needed. This position also provides courteous assistance to the public, performs other duties as assigned, and is a valuable and contributing member of the zoo team.

Principal Duties:

1. Develop, teach, and evaluate programming for diverse audiences of all ages.
   1. Present live animals in the ambassador animal collection to a variety of audiences.
      1. Follow appropriate methods and protocols for handing small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, and birds.
      2. Assist with socializing, training, and husbandry of ambassador animals.
      3. Be comfortable working with all species including snakes, spiders, and invertebrates.
   2. Coordinate supplies and materials, including requests for rooms, animals, and vehicle maintenance.
   3. Drive zoo vehicles and follow safety policies for operating vehicles and transporting animals.
   4. Ensure accuracy of program calendars, databases, and reports of program participation.
   5. Occasionally serve as a substitute teacher in the Zoo’s Preschool.
   6. Engage with zoo visitors to ensure a positive and educational experience.
2. Contribute to a positive team atmosphere through the coordination of work with colleagues, volunteers, other departments, and community partners.
   1. Work with education team to identify and address departmental goals.
   2. Assist with training and supervising seasonal staff, interns, and volunteers.
   3. Work with education team to refine best practices for fostering empathy and conservation action and integrate them more fully into programs and zoo-wide norms.
   4. Participate in professional development to stay informed of new trends and topics and share that knowledge with colleagues.
   5. Attend meetings and actively participate on committees as needed.
   6. Represent the zoo in a professional manner.
3. Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Education & Experience Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental education, biology, education, or a related field.
• At least 2 years of experience as an informal or formal educator.
• Animal handling and care experience preferred.

Competency & Knowledge Requirements: 

• Strong knowledge of natural history, biological concepts, conservation and environmental education methodology.
• Demonstrated ability to adapt content to a variety of ages and audiences.
• Excellent public speaking skills.
• Effective management of informal and formal audience settings.
• Self-motivated and takes initiative.
• Strong attention to detail and organization.
• Ability to communicate positively and effectively in English, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, co-workers, volunteers, and the public.
• Ability to act in a professional manner, maintain confidentiality, and possess a positive attitude.
• Ability to work in a busy office and public environment.
• Ability to prioritize and organize work, handle multiple concurrent assignments, meet deadlines, and problem solve.
• Ability to work as part of a team and independently.
• Flexibility to work occasional evenings, overnights, weekends, and holidays.
• Demonstrated computer literacy, including Microsoft Office Suite and email.
• Valid driver’s license.

For a full job description and instructions on how to apply, please visit https://lszoo.org/about/employment/