The Education Programs Supervisor is responsible for overseeing program management; the development, instruction, and evaluation of educational programs for varying audiences in classrooms, parks and community facilities. Lead, supervise, and inspire education staff to advance the mission of the Naples Zoo through conservation education programs and provide opportunity for professional growth. Responsible for the care, husbandry, and training of the education ambassador animal collection. Ensure that all education programs are innovative and effective, as determined by evaluation, and are in direct support of the vision/mission/values of Naples Zoo.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Create, develop, and execute a comprehensive assortment of education programs including revenue generating programs, public programs, interpretation, and events.
- Oversee the implementation and evaluation of innovative, creative and effective educational programs for a variety of audiences, including but not limited to, families, children, teachers, seniors, scouts, homeschool groups, and inclusive populations.
- Serve as the supervisor of the Education Programs Specialist, Educators and Interns. Carry out recruitment, onboarding, off-boarding, training, scheduling, professional development, animal handling training, program development, and all other related responsibilities and tracking.
- Support all education staff in the creation of full lesson plans for all programs with goals and objectives that align with state, environmental, and conservation standards.
- Master and lead all education programs as needed, including but not limited to camps, family programs, school/group programs, behind-the-scenes experiences, events and outreach.
- Assist staff in the creation and preparation of materials for educational events (onsite and offsite), and coordinate/lead those events as needed.
- Serve as a primary trainer for full-time, part-time, volunteer, and internship education staff, educating on zoo culture, safety, first-aid, CPR, interpretation, programming and other topics as necessary and applicable.
- Ensure relevancy and professionalism by participating in professional development and networking with like-minded professionals in the field.
- Provide excellent guest service when communicating with guests, current/future program participants, administration, and associated departments in the Zoo to ensure successful programs.
- Responsible for the daily care, husbandry and well-being of the education ambassador animal collection; including but not limited to feeding, habitat maintenance, behavioral observation, enrichment, record keeping, operant conditioning and training.
- Responsible for reporting and notifying appropriate staff of any animal or safety concerns, knowledge of regulatory standards (USDA, FWC, AZA), and support/assist with veterinary health needs as requested.
- Perform animal handling, training and restraint as needed, and serve as the primary animal handling trainer, adhering to all standard operating procedures and policies.
- Work closely with the Director of Education to determine a strategic direction of future programming and assist in the oversight and achievement of department revenue goals for programs and grants.
- Assist the Director of Education in the management of grants; application, tracking, and expenditures of funds for the duration of grant(s).
- Create and implement standard operating procedures for the education department to ensure best practices, quality programming, and professionalism in the workplace.
- In the absence of the Director of Education, lead and manage the day-to-day operations of the education department and team and work proactively to problem-solve and collaborate with colleagues.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Education and/or Experience:
- This position requires a Bachelor’s degree in science, education or related field.
- A Master’s degree in science, education, management or related field is a plus.
- Must have a minimum of two years formal/informal curriculum development and teaching experience.
- Must have a minimum of one year or equivalent experience in a supervisory role.
- Experience creating age-appropriate curricula and teaching children in formal/informal settings required.
- Must be energetic, creative, responsible, dependable and have enthusiasm for wildlife and children.
- Experience supervising volunteers, interns, and/or paid staff is required.
- Experience managing animals, including reptiles, amphibians, mammals, birds and invertebrates is required.
- Experience working with camp programs, camp staff, and campers is preferred.
- Willingness to work with and around animals, including snakes and other reptiles, mammals, birds, amphibians, and invertebrates.
- Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
- Willingness to obtain TB test and pass comprehensive background check.
- Must be able to work a flexible schedule. Weekends, evenings and holidays may be required.
- Database management a plus.
- Driver’s license in good standing.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office products.
- Multi-lingual a plus.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:
- Valid Florida state driver’s license and must be age 21 to drive personal or Zoo owned motor vehicle for Zoo business.
- National Association for Interpretation Certified Interpretive Guide is a plus.
Physical requirements:
- Must be able to repeatedly lift and/or push 50 pounds.
- Standing (three hours per day)
- Sitting (five hours per day)
- Walking (three hours per day)
- Viewing a computer screen for extended periods
- More than average talking
- Daily contact with a living collection of plants and animals in a central Florida climate
- Exposure to various plants and animals, and subject to bites, stings and scrapes.
- Exposure to marked changes in temperature and humidity
- Ability to travel and drive a zoo vehicle (car/cargo van) as needed
SPECIAL INFORMATION
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Compliance
- Naples Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
- The ADA requires Naples Zoo to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities.
- Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with the Human Resources Office.
- As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Naples Zoo is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive company culture, and our team does not discriminate against candidates and employees because of their disability, sex, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, veteran status, or any other protected status under the law.
- Employee Eligible Benefits & Employment Benefits
- Medical, Dental & Vision Health Coverage
- Company paid Life Insurance policy of $25,000
- Supplemental insurance plans available (disability, GAP, accident, critical care)
- 403B Retirement and Investment Opportunities
- Accrued Paid Time Off
- Tuition Reimbursement Program available
- Holiday Premium Pay
- Employee Referral Bonuses
- Complimentary Zoo admission for employees and/or their families after 90 days of employment
- Complimentary and discounted admissions to 100+ Florida theme parks for employee and/or their families
- 30% Employee Discount at Naples Zoo Gift Shop & Zoo cafes
