Seasonal Educator
Position: Seasonal Educator
Reports to: Education Dept. Management
Supervises: Volunteers / Interns
Coordinates with: Education Dept. Management & Staff, Volunteer Manager and other zoo staff
Summary of Responsibilities:
This dynamic individual will present engaging environmental education programs to a wide range of ages and audiences, who will be both at the zoo and at remote locations away from the zoo.
- To assist the Zoo in fostering an appreciation of wildlife and their habitats that will inspire active participation in conservation.
- Assist management in ensuring safety, cleanliness, and efficiency in all areas of the operation of the Zoo.
- Be available as per business needs.
- Follow and adhere to all policies and procedures and safety protocols for the department and the Zoo.
- Adhere to proper dress attire at all time
- Creates an excellent guest experience by engaging guests in interactive and dynamic education programs including, but not limited to Zoo on Wheels, on site 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 an 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 DOE
- Valid driver’s license without violations
- Ability to lift up to 50lbs and ability to move safely over uneven terrain, in confined spaces, climb ladders and work in extreme weather conditions
- Excellent public speaking skills
- Ability to contribute to a team setting
- Excellent communication skills
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.
Identification: A valid Driver’s license/State ID or Passport and second form of valid identification is required. Ability to pass background and child abuse clearances.
Salary range: 15.00/hourly