Facility
Henson Robinson Zoo
Closing Date
[jobclosingdate]
Description
This position is under the supervision of the Zoo’s Director. This position directly programs and leads all ‘on-site’ and ‘off-site’ education programs. This position is responsible for the creation and implementation of the Zoo’s education programs, development of the Zoo’s informational graphics and informal education stations around the zoo and provides support for private rentals, birthday parties, special events and other functions. All job functions should incorporate the vision of the education department’s broad conservation goals and integrate conservation education strategies. Strong candidates will enjoy and value working with people of all ages, cultures and abilities.
This position works a minimum of 40 hours per week. The hours would include non-standard work with weekdays and weekends during normal business hours and could include additional evening work and holidays as the facility needs. Schedules could fluctuate based on facility, operational and District needs.
Education and Pre-requisites
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
• Bachelor’s degree in zoology, biology, education or a related field.
• Experience developing curriculum; and implementing and evaluating programs. Experience with a zoo, aquarium, museum, early childhood center, park or other informal education organization preferred.
• Strong computer background and proficiency required experienced with Microsoft Office applications; particularly Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook Google and Social Media platforms. Must be able to work with customized databases and technology, and conduct Internet research.
• Ability to write curriculum, routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively to a variety of audiences including young children, families, adults and before groups of zoo employees.
• Capable of leading and teaching classes of students from ages 2 through adult.
• Capable of handling a variety of animals.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work with a variety of stakeholders from different backgrounds and abilities (visitors, volunteers, teachers, and staff, etc.)
• Highly organized, detail oriented and efficient with excellent administrative, record/data keeping and time management skills
• Creative and motivated to present ideas and suggestions that drive improvement to all aspects of the Zoo.
• Ability to prioritize workload and schedules in a fast-paced environment with multiple agendas
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects with high energy and creative problem-solving skills
• Ability to anticipate needs and challenges, take initiative, ask questions, and provide solutions to achieve department and organization objectives
• Ability to work effectively as a team member, and independently with little supervision
• Adaptable to changing environments, operational protocols and business situations
• Highly professional public presence; Must be enthusiastic and customer service oriented and deal with guests in a courteous and professional manner. Enjoy working with the public including diverse populations and people of all ages and abilities.
• Commitment to the mission of the Zoo and the Springfield Park District’s Core Values
• Experienced with public speaking and keeping audiences engaged.
• Maintain and promote a positive professional image within the community and overall field of Zoos and Aquariums.
• Attend conferences, workshops, meetings, and trade shows to keep abreast of marketing, business trends and professional development in AZA, ZAA development and/or parks & recreation.
• Good knowledge of pertinent safety precautions.
• Possession of, or ability to obtain, a Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Certificate (infant, child and adult), and Standard First Aid Certificate.
• Ability to work a non-standard/flexible schedule, which may include weekends, some evenings and holidays
General Requirements:
• Must be able to read and write and have good command of the English language.
• Physical capabilities – lifts 50 pounds, squat, bend and move as necessary for the job.
• Must be able to perform basic mathematics.
• Must have basic proficiency of Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Must possess valid Illinois Driver’s License.
• Must possess professional phone skills and work well with the public.
• Must present a neat and professional appearance.
• Responsible to follow policies and procedures outlined in Springfield Park District employee manual.
• Must live in Sangamon County, in the State of Illinois or must be willing to move to Sangamon County in the State of Illinois within the first 6 months of acceptance of a position with the Springfield Park District.
Compensation and benefits
16.00hr w/ benefits
Application instructions
*How to Apply:
• Go to: www.springfieldparks.org
• Locate Join Our Team link at the top right of our Home Page
• Click on the green button that states “Click Here for a Full List of Job Opportunities and to Apply”
• Find this Job Description – select the position
• Complete the *Required Questions
• Download your *Resume
• Click Submit to apply for the position.
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*To be considered for a position, all applicants MUST apply online through our Job Opportunity and Tracking Portal. No paper applications or resumes will be accepted.
Deadline to Apply: TBD