The Education Program Specialist is responsible for planning, preparing, and presenting dynamic, educational, and conservation-focused programming. This includes classes, camps, birthday parties, animal encounters, and on-grounds presentations. The role involves handling and presenting live animal ambassadors, while modeling safe and appropriate techniques. This position requires a passionate, engaging, and collaborative educator with strong communication and public speaking skills along with the ability to mentor ZooTeens, Docents, and other volunteers.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Develop and deliver educational programming for audiences ranging from toddlers to adults.
- Plan and lead camps, classes, birthday parties, and on-grounds animal encounters.
- Create supporting materials including lesson plans, visuals, and take-home content.
- Safely handle and present live animal ambassadors in public and educational settings.
- Assist with daily care, husbandry, training, and management of Dickerson Park Zoo ambassador animals.
- Maintain accurate records for program attendance, animal ambassador presentations, and registration and participant engagement
- Order and manage educational supplies and materials.
- Assist with program logistics and setup/cleanup as needed.
Skills & Abilities
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong organizational and planning abilities.
- Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and audiences.
- Experience with instructional design and engaging teaching strategies.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and other software.
- Understanding of Next Generation Science Standards is preferred.
- Commitment to safety, professionalism, and conservation education.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 lbs (e.g., supplies, travel crates).
- Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, climbing, and reaching.
- Operate a computer and perform standard office tasks.
- Work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- Basic maintenance on equipment, garden beds, and classroom
Work Environment
- Primarily office and classroom settings, with frequent outdoor programming.
- Exposure to animals, dust, pollen, and uneven terrain during outdoor events.
Other Requirements
- Must have a valid driver’s license.
- Must pass a background check.
- Schedule includes some evenings, weekends, and holidays for programs, events, or meetings.
- Ability to safely drive mini or passenger vans to transport staff, volunteers, and animals.
Additional Responsibilities
- Attend conferences, workshops, seminars, and other training for professional development purposes
- Oversee the work of a small number of temporary employees and volunteers while having an understanding of Better Impact volunteer software.
- Perform basic administrative tasks (e.g., copying, filing, data entry).
- Support and promote the mission and values of Dickerson Park Zoo and Friends of the Zoo.
- Perform related duties as assigned.
Experience Required
- Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Education, Biology, Environmental Science, Wildlife Management, Zoology, or a related field.
- Minimum of two (2) years of professional experience in education, animal care, or conservation programming.
Perks
- Competitive Benefit Package Including:
- Medical, Dental, and Vision.
- Voluntary Insurance, Employee Assistance Program,
- 401(k) Retirement Plan,
- Paid Time Off,
- and discounted food and beverage at Dickerson Park Zoo,
Salary
- Salary Range starts at $19.50 an hour or $40,560 annually.
