Seasonal Educator

Seasonal Educator

Position: Seasonal Educator

Reports to: Assistant Directors of Education (ADOE)

Supervises: Volunteers/Interns

Coordinates with: Education Dept. Management & Staff, and other Zoo staff               

Summary of Responsibilities:

A dynamic individual who will present engaging environmental education programs to a wide range of ages and audiences, both on and off site.

  • Assist the Zoo’s mission: ‘fostering an appreciation of wildlife and the environment that will inspire active participation in conservation’
  • Assist management in ensuring safety, cleanliness, and efficiency in all areas of operation of the Zoo
  • Be available as per business needs
  • Follow and adhere to all policies and procedures and safety protocols for the Education department and the Zoo
  • Creates an excellent guest experience by engaging guests in interactive and dynamic education programs including, but not limited to, Zoo on Wheels, onsite classes, tabling events, scout programs, Elmwood Encounters, and greets
  • Provide engaging and factual information regarding the animals of the collection
  • Ensures every education program delivers appropriate conservation messages
  • Communicate effectively with a wide range of ages and abilities, in both group and individual settings
  • Supports animal feeding and exhibit experiences as needed, as well as potential training of interns and volunteers on such experiences
  • Supports camp programs as needed
  • Ensures the safety and proper handling of Ambassador Animals while on program
  • Demonstrates excellent customer service skills to all clients and guests both on and off site
  • Acts as an ambassador for The Elmwood Park Zoo while delivering off site programs
  • Creates a positive, encouraging, and inspiring environment for all volunteers and interns
  • Ability to provide coverage and support to other education programs/areas as needed
  • Ability to work in a flexible, fast-paced environment, facilitating interaction between visitors and exhibit animals
  • Must be able to work a flexible schedule, which  includes weekends and possible evening events 
  • Performs other duties assigned by FT Education staff or ADOE

Minimum Qualification Requirements: Education: High School Diploma or GED


Work Experience:
Experience with teaching or public presentation in either an informal or formal setting. Animal handling experience and comfort with a variety of species preferred.

  • Must have a valid driver’s license without violations
  • Must have negative TB test
  • Must have good physical strength and endurance including the ability to lift, move, and transport up to 50lbs
  • Able to work outside in all weather conditions
  • Must be able to work from heights or in confined spaces and have ability to ascend, descend, and work from and around stairs and ladders
  • Excellent public speaking skills
  • Ability to contribute to a team setting
  • Excellent communication skills

Identification: Two forms of official valid identification are required. Ability to pass criminal background and child abuse clearances

Salary: 16.00/hourly

Seasonal Educator Application