Informal Educator

Put your time to good use by inspiring San Antonio Zoo guests and program participants to secure a future for wildlife! As an Informal Educator for San Antonio Zoo, you will help empower children and adults to appreciate, protect, and understand the world around them. Do you want to be part of a dynamic nonprofit organization that focuses on educating young minds and securing a future for wildlife? 

WORK SCHEDULE AND COMPENSATION

Most Informal Educators are scheduled for weekly school programs 8:45 am-10:45 am weekday mornings, evening programs 6:00 pm-8:30 pm, weekend overnight 5:30 pm-9:30 am (the next day), or a combination of both. Informal Educators typically work between 10 and 30 hours per month with a compensation of $13.00.

WORK-LIFE BALANCE

Fun perks include discounts on entry, food, merchandise, an annual zoo pass, and an increase after 6 months of satisfactory employment. In addition to the employee recognition program, eligible for internal positions after 4 months of employment and employee appreciation events!

A DAY IN THE LIFE AS AN INFORMAL EDUCATOR

Did you know that the Education Department inspires students, scouts, campers, and families to secure a future for wildlife through educational programming and connections with animal ambassadors? As an Informal Educator, you will lead educational programs, activities, and tours throughout the zoo, reaching a diverse audience of children, parents, and teachers. Informal Educators are also trained to present various Education Ambassador Animals, including invertebrates, snakes, lizards, and mammals. These programs take place during the week, on weekends, and even overnight! All programs help spread the mission of San Antonio Zoo, which is to secure a future for wildlife and aim to encourage conservation-based behavioral change.

You must be fully committed to San Antonio Zoo's mission to create awareness that inspires action to care for the wildlife we steward and the animals we protect. You take pride in knowing your hard work makes a difference in wildlife conservation.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR INFORMAL EDUCATOR

• Strong communication skills. Ability to express oneself clearly and concisely. Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Strong organizational and group management skills.
• Strong desire to work with children K-12, as well as adults.
• Availability to work weekday mornings and/or weekend overnight programs.
• Ability to work well with a diverse team of staff and volunteers individually, with limited direction.
• Ability and flexibility to accommodate last-minute program and schedule changes with a positive and supportive attitude.
• Basic knowledge of biology, zoology, organizing, planning, collaborating, and implementing educational presentations.
• Experience leading group programs, e.g., camps, scouts, classroom presentations, and children's programs.
• Knowledge and experience in conservation education or science is preferred.
• Must be 18 years of age or older
• At least two years of college coursework in life sciences, zoology, education, environmental interpretation, or equivalent experience.
• Ability to speak and understand Spanish is helpful.
• Successful candidates must complete a pre-employment National Sex Offender Search, Criminal Background Check, and Drug Screen.
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• We enjoy year-round operation for all staff and must be available day, nights, weekends, and occasional special after-hour assignments.