Interpretation Coordinator

Zoo New England is seeking a creative and innovative thinker to join our Education Department as we begin to implement a new Master Interpretative Plan, that will reimagine the guest experience at both the Franklin Park and Stone Zoo.  This is an exciting opportunity for a candidate with a passion for conservation interpretation to create materials that motivate audiences from awareness to engagement, and ultimately to action.  This position will serve a key role in implementing ZNE’s new Master Interpretive Plan. A core responsibility will be to create interpretive storylines and connect the success stories the zoo has pioneered both locally and globally. The successful candidate will bring a spirit of teamwork, innovation, and creativity, have excellent communication skills, and provide positive leadership.  

• Essential functions of ZNE’s Education Department include on and off-site education programming, interpretation, youth programs, and the volunteer program. 
• All areas are closely integrated to create a unified educational experience and conservation message to visitors and program participants.
• The Interpretative Coordinator is responsible for the development and coordination of staff and volunteer interpretative training, as well as the development of interpretative materials (including but not limited to) biofacts, signs, toolkits, and training materials.
• The Interpretative Coordinator must be able to work independently and in a team environment.
• The position requires the ability to work cross departmentally, foster the professional development of the Education team and volunteers, and work well with diverse community groups and collaborators.
• The Interpretative Coordinator will work very closely with the Director of Education to enhance the interpretative experience at Zoo New England, ensuring the best techniques are utilized to engage our millions of audience members on conservation the zoo champions both locally and globally.
• Zoo New England is a private, non-profit organization that operates the Parklin Park Zoo in Boston, MA , and the Stone Zoo in Stoneham, MA.
• Preference will be given to applications received by June 1st, 2024. 

Essential Job Functions 

• This position is responsible for producing, writing, and reviewing interpretive content.
• This position will work independently and in a team environment. Working cooperatively with the Director of Education, to coordinate the development of new interpretive programs aligned with Zoo New England’s mission and interpretive strategy.
• There are two main roles this position fills: content creation and training of staff: 
• Assists with the development, implementation, and evaluation of interpretation programming.
• Serve on exhibit teams and play a key role in updating exhibit graphics, ensure consistency across ZNE and divisions.
• Oversight of development of interpretative materials; responsible for ensuring appropriate stakeholder input in creation of interpretive content.
• Build & maintain positive relationships with zoo colleagues from multiple departments that support interpretation.
• Maintain and enhance the biofacts, exhibits, and supplies for both Franklin Park and Stone Zoo.
• Works with members of senior staff in development of the Zoos’ strategic plan, educational mission, and marketing strategies for audience growth and outreach.
• Coordinate the daily operation of interpretive programming, including coordinating the zoo grounds interpretation schedule with Zoo New England’s Education Department.
• With an emphasis on coordinating with the Volunteer Manager to schedule interpretive volunteers, and the development of new volunteer interpretive programming.
• Manage interpretation training for staff and volunteers through workshops, seminars, and other professional sessions.
• Maintain and continually update with best trends in interpretation training and program materials, such as presentations, fact sheets and program outlines.
• Develop evaluation and feedback systems.
• Evaluate for quality control and ongoing professional development.
• Oversee and supervise interpretive activities to uphold mission of ZNE.
• Plan, present, and coordinate programs facilitated on-site and off-site.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Director of Education.

Minimum Job Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in environmental education or a related field.
• National Association for Interpretation certification.
• 3 years’ experience with exhibit interpretation.
• Proven ability to work well, both independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences in a variety of settings.
• Well-developed understanding of interpretation, such as theme development, developing storylines, learning about audiences, and ways education and interpretation differ and can complement each other.
• Valid driver’s license with a reliable vehicle; use of personal vehicle for institutional purpose. Able to lift 50 pounds and walk over uneven terrain and in all weather.
• Maintain up-to-date CPR/AED and First Aid certifications.
• Must be able to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Preferred Job Requirements

• Fluency in a second language, in addition to English.
• Leadership experience with at least one successful, collaborative, exhibit design project at a zoo, aquarium or museum.
• Positive handling/husbandry experience working with small herps, mammals and birds.
• Where to apply: https://zoonewengland.bamboohr.com/careers/288