Facility
Reid Park Zoo – Tucson, AZ
Closing Date
[jobclosingdate]
Description
Come join us at the Reid Park Zoological Society!
Reid Park Zoological Society is seeking an Education Specialist. Bachelor's degree in the biological sciences, education, or related field preferred OR equivalent 2 years’ experience. Experience working with children is required. A basic understanding of a zoo’s role in protecting wildlife and encouraging conservation and strong presentation and communication skills are required. Applicant must be available to work a flexible schedule that includes shifting their schedule to work frequent evening shifts including weekends. This position is open until filled.
The Society is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to support, advocate for and enhance the value of Reid Park Zoo and its mission to encourage commitment to the conservation of biological diversity and to provide educational and fun experiences for visitors of all ages. Reid Park Zoo is the largest attended cultural attraction in Southern Arizona with approximately 500,000 visitors annually. Be a part of a vibrant, growing organization as Reid Park Zoo implements an exciting master plan that will be investing over $60M in new exhibits over the next ten years.
No phone calls or visits please. We are an Equal Opportunities Employer. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse staff.
Overview:
Responsible for set-up, instruction, and clean-up for a variety of educational programs for all ages.
Reports To: Director of Education and Conservation
Responsibilities:
Instructs engaging interpretive education programs, presentations, and tours on/off-site during regular operating hours and after-hours as needed.
May access behind-the-scenes areas of the zoo.
Handles live education ambassador species.
Follows Zoo safety protocols and procedures.
Provides transportation to off-site programs as needed.
Provides excellent guest service during programs and when answering phone inquiries.
Communicates clearly with supervisors before and after programs.
Promotes Reid Park Zoo’s mission and key education and conservation goals.
Assists as needed at special events.
May direct tasks and oversee activities of volunteers.
May have regular set hours beyond the program schedule to complete projects.
Assists in developing and evaluating curriculum and programs.
Completes trainings as required. These may include but are not limited to animal
handling, safety, CPR/ First Aid, DEI and zoonotic disease training.
Be able to perform those tasks that are essential to the job, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Any other reasonable duty as requested.
Please note that this document is not intended to be an exhaustive list. It is intended to give a reasonable idea of what might be required.
Education and Pre-requisites
Preferred Qualifications, Skills and Abilities
Education requirements
Bachelor’s degree in the biological sciences, education, or related field preferred OR equivalent 2 years’ experience.
Experience requirements
Basic understanding of a zoo’s role in protecting wildlife and encouraging conservation
Teaching experience for elementary or middle school age children OR summer camp counselor OR docent experience in an educational setting OR other experience working with children.
Other requirements
Strong communication & presentation skills
Ability to work outdoors in all weather and varying temperatures.
Ability to perform light physical tasks such as lifting tables and chairs (25lbs).
Ability to bend, pull, crouch, stoop, lean.
Willingness to undertake an annual TB skin test.
Willingness to undertake First Aid/ CPR certification training if required. Recertification every two years is required if you participate in summer camp programs.
Regular physical attendance at work.
Willing to work flexible work schedule that varies by season including weekends and evenings.
Valid driver’s license required and ability to drive.
Compensation and benefits
We have four healthcare plans, two dental plans, vision, life insurance, pet insurance and some free benefits including Short & Long Term Disability and life insurance. We offer 12 vacation days, 11 paid holidays plus 40 hours sick time annually. We offer a 401k plan with employer matching. In addition, we have staff discounts and fun employee events throughout the year and zoo membership for your family.
Application instructions
Please apply via our website www.reidparkzoo.org/employment