Administrative and Technical Specialist

Zoological Society of Milwaukee•Wauwatosa, WI

8d•Onsite

About The Position

The Zoological Society of Milwaukee (the Society) is seeking an Administrative and Technical Specialist to join a fun and talented team of professionals in supporting one of the most cherished community assets – the Milwaukee County Zoo. This position conducts multiple essential administrative and operational responsibilities for our theater program within Arts Education at the Zoological Society of Milwaukee (ZSM). The role works within the Arts Education Program in support of the Society’s mission to educate people about the importance of wildlife and animals and support the Milwaukee County Zoo (MCZ), and the Conservation Education department’s vision to inspire and empower all members of our community to take conservation action.

Requirements

Associate or bachelor's degree, or equivalent combination of education and experience, in education or theater arts (formal, informal, environmental, etc.) or related field (e.g., non-profit management, conservation, wildlife biology, zoology, etc.)
At least one year of experience working in an administrative role that required significant organization, attention to detail and customer service responsibilities.
Proven ability to prioritize and plan work activities and use time efficiently to meet deadlines.
Demonstration of excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills; Spanish or second language fluency a plus.
Familiarity with Tessitura a plus.
One year of experience in professional production or stage management experience.
Professional or educational experience in theatrical design and fabrication (costumes, set, puppets, props, sound, etc.)
Experience with a touring theater company, theatre for young audiences or outdoor theater a plus.
Demonstrated familiarity with Q-lab software (both audio and video), OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) or SCS (Show Cue System).
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; proficiency in additional collaboration platforms (e.g., Smartsheet) and/or resource scheduling tools strongly preferred.
Possession of a valid driver’s license and adequate car insurance, with the ability to frequently travel to program sites which may at times be out-of-town. Must have reliable transportation to the Milwaukee County Zoo and program sites.
Ability to work flexible hours based upon performance requirements, including occasional weekend, late afternoon, and/or pre-designated holiday hours.
Proven ability to work independently and in teams.
Proven ability to prioritize and plan work activities and use time efficiently to meet deadlines.

Nice To Haves

Spanish or second language fluency
Familiarity with Tessitura
Experience with a touring theater company, theatre for young audiences or outdoor theater

Responsibilities

Act as primary customer facing representative for the Arts Education outreach programs including performances, workshops, and puppet appearances.
Book all outreach performances and workshops, setting venue agreements and organizing the performance calendar.
Respond in a timely manner to outreach program inquiries and customer concerns.
Maintain processes regarding bookings and provide continuous improvement to those processes.
Employ strong customer service and interpersonal skills to connect and relate with a variety of participants, family members, and volunteers, ranging in age and diversity.
Assist with seasonal education registration, as needed.
Coordinate Arts Education teams traveling into the community and performing at the Zoo. Includes providing acting and stage management staff with all venue information, following up on all venue concerns and maintaining a venue history.
Coordinate evaluation feedback from audience surveys and update files for evaluation analysis. Record relevant evaluation data including access numbers, geographic footprint, demographic information of audiences, and attendance.
Maintain and update the Arts Education website and other online resources, such as audition announcements, social narratives and show summaries, in coordination with the Arts Education Manager.
Research and identify strategies to increase program engagement for both outreach and in-zoo performances.
Assist Arts Education Manager in gathering independent designers and artisans by creating commission documents summarizing the technical needs of the production. Assist Arts Education Manager with onboarding of production designers and contractors, including stage managers.
Design and fabricate costumes, props, sets, or puppets (depending on skillset) for Arts Education shows.
Assist with various technical components for Arts Education shows, including performance cues, tech lists, van packs and scheduling logistics to ensure high quality experience and smooth production process.
Provide practical and organizational support to the director, actors, designers, stage crew and technicians throughout the rehearsal and production process.
Organize and lead technical rehearsals, production strike, and cast appreciation parties. Prepare and winterize summer mainstage area at the start and conclusion of summer season.
Direct and stage manage Arts Education productions as needed (depending on skillset).
Manage “after-hours” complications during performance runs in coordination with the Arts Education Manager.
Assist with purchasing, inventory and maintenance of show vehicles, props, puppets, sets, costumes, computers, microphones, technical equipment, vehicles, signage, and other materials. Ensure system for tracking and storing materials is put into place.
Act as Arts Education liaison with Milwaukee County Zoo. Coordinate Zoo stage usage and maintain backstage work areas with the Family Farm staff and Zoo animal management staff (non-ZSM). Onsite coordinator for yearly summer stage commencement including stage build and sunshade installation together with the Arts Education Manager.
Facilitate and support positive internal communications and organizational culture.
Represent the Society and Education Department on Zoo grounds, community events, and with partner organizations.
Respect and maintain all work areas so they are presentable for Zoo guests, funders, and other ZSM or MCZ employees.