Job Description
Job Description
Salary : Starting at $19.50 / hr or $40,560 annually
Position Summary
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.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
Bachelors 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.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 classroomWork 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 drivers 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 purposesOversee 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.Job Details
This position is a Friends of the Zoo Education Program Specialist at Dickerson Park ZooThe salary range starts at $19.50 an hour or $40,560.00 annuallyNon-Exempt position