Education Instructor - Summer Offsite Programs

Tulsa Zoo•Tulsa, OK

2d•Onsite

About The Position

You will work with zoo staff teaching offsite summer programs in partnership with Tulsa Public Schools during the month of July. Programs are outlined by Tulsa Zoo’s Education department and are presented by you to elementary-aged children and hosted by Tulsa Public Schools summer camps. You will get to present content and biofacts, as well as handle a selection of the department’s education ambassador animals. This is a seasonal position.

Requirements

Must be 18 years or older, possess a valid driver’s license, and be insurable on TZMI’s insurance carrier
Must be able to safely drive a van or large passenger van.
Have or are working towards a bachelor’s degree in education, biology, zoology, environmental science, or a related field from college or university
One to three years experience working as a classroom teacher, an interpretive educator, or in an early childhood education setting
Equivalent combination of education and experience is acceptable
Must be able to work in an active setting and complete assignments that require teamwork, research, and self-starting; capable of self-motivating and working without direct supervision
Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals; write routine reports and correspondence; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing before groups of customers, employees of TZMI, and the general public; proficient in public speaking and creative thinking
Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide using whole numbers, common fractions and decimals
Ability to work a flexible schedule including evenings, weekends and holidays
Familiarity with a variety of teaching methods and knowledge of age-appropriate cognitive and physical abilities required

Nice To Haves

Experience working with small invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals preferred
Working knowledge of the natural world preferred

Responsibilities

Teach summer programs for Tulsa Zoo’s Education department.
Implement assigned, pre-written, interpretive educational programming for various age groups at off-site locations.
Provide unique, interactive, and interpretive educational experiences for all participants in assigned age group.
Participate in all activities and monitor student participation and enjoyment.
Ensure the safety of all guests and program participants.
Handle animals in the education animal collection in both public and non-public situations.
Manage biofacts related to the programs.
Maintain facilities to ensure animal, staff, and visitor safety, and in good appearance for public viewing at all times. Identify and communicate situations for repair and maintenance.
Effectively communicate and demonstrate interpersonal skills with all levels of employees in a clear and professional manner.
Demonstrate and adhere to TZMI’s workplace values.
Know and follow zoo policies and procedures, including emergency protocols.
Attend and participate in staff meetings and assigned training sessions.
Recognize signs of pest infestation in animal areas and combat pests/nuisance wildlife as directed.
Maintain area compliance with all local, state, federal, and international regulations and standards are met (USDA, AZA, etc).
Participate in visitor education programs, formal and informal animal presentations and outreach programs, scheduled keeper talks, and provide accurate information to the public.
Maintain necessary testing/vaccinations as required (TB, rabies, etc.).
Observe animal collection daily for injury, illness, aggression, stress, breeding activity, diet intake, and fecal consistency.
Other duties as assigned.