Conservation Learning Coordinator

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance•Denver, CO

7d•$24 - $30•Onsite

About The Position

The Conservation Learning Coordinator advances Denver Zoo’s mission and goals through the coordination of camp, scout, and other programs that build foundational connections to nature for children, developing interest and affinity for wildlife and the natural world, and strengthening their ability to engage in developmentally appropriate conservation action. Our team is made up of passionate and diverse professionals dedicated to providing excellent care for our animals while creating meaningful experiences for our guests. If you're excited to contribute your skills in a collaborative and innovative environment, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is the place for you!

Requirements

Completion of a high school degree or equivalent required, or any equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
At least 2 years of experience in an environmental education in a nonprofit zoo, museum or science institution; focusing on education in a camp or equivalent setting; experience leading camp staff, working with scout groups, and facilitating programming with diverse communities is strongly preferred or any equivalent combination of experience, lived experience, and/or special skills.
Demonstrated academic and practical understanding of current best practices in education, with particular focus in play, inquiry, development of empathy, conservation optimism, and culturally responsive teaching that meets the varying developmental, behavioral, language, and learning needs of participants.
Demonstrated knowledge and dynamic skills in program facilitation, program or logistics coordination, and some exposure to program development and staff supervision. Preference given to candidates who have done so successfully in an informal environmental education setting.
Organizational skills, written and oral communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to prioritize work and tasks.
Adaptability to produce and meet deadlines in a fast-paced, multi-task and changing environment, and the ability to work as part of a team.
Basic computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite.
Ability to pass a background check and pre-employment drug and alcohol screen.

Nice To Haves

Ability to communicate in English and Spanish is preferred.

Responsibilities

Partner with Conservation Learning Manager to coordinate the development and day-to-day implementation of educational day camp and special programming for children, scouts and community groups, with an emphasis on connections to wildlife and nature, science learning, and developmentally appropriate conservation action.
Coordinate a large day camp program for over 2,400 children each summer including seasonal staff hiring, training and team building, upholding policies and procedures, parent/caregiver communication, and modeling excellence in engagement and learning methodologies.
Coordinate and facilitate seasonal school break camps and scout programs, employing creative strategies to expand audiences.
Oversee the development of curriculum and experiences using the DZCA program design process, ensuring alignment with educational standards.
Ensure programs are implemented in alignment with departmental and organizational goals and priorities and associated grant/donor terms.
Collaborate and communicate effectively across departments to coordinate program spaces, staffing, safety, animal experiences, etc.
Maintain a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for children by ensuring compliance with DZCA policies, staff-to-participant ratios, emergency procedures, mandatory reporting requirements, participant accommodations, and established standards for youth programs.
Support the supervision, coaching, scheduling, and evaluation of seasonal and variable part-time employees supporting child and family programs, in collaboration with the Conservation Learning Manager, program coordinators, and Operations Coordinator.
Support departmental and team hiring processes, leading when appropriate.
Model and uplift positive team culture through communication and support of activities designed to welcome, include, and recognize all team members.
Communicate clearly, empathetically, and in a welcoming manner with partners, families, caregivers, and program participants, collaborating with the Operations Coordinator to ensure program and partnership expectations are met.
Communicate with program staff and volunteers to prepare their roles in program implementation, including support of program-specific training.
Support cross-divisional communications: programs for the purposes of promotion, planning, fundraising and resource coordination.
Support evaluation, tracking, impact reporting, and storytelling around Conservation Learning programs