Education Specialist I

Virginia Zoological Society•Norfolk, VA

14h•Onsite

About The Position

The Virginia Zoo, founded in 1901 and located in Norfolk, Virginia, is home to more than 700 animals representing over 150 species across 53 acres of outdoor habitats, the World of Reptiles, classrooms, and guest amenities. The Zoo is committed to inspiring our community to take action to save the world’s wildlife and their ecosystems. Our vision is a world where everyone values wildlife and the environment. We prioritize the health, safety, and well-being of every animal in our care. We empower our community to protect wildlife and ecosystems locally and globally. We create meaningful experiences that inspire curiosity, learning, and stewardship. We uphold ethical standards in all operations, partnerships, and interactions. We foster a welcoming environment where diverse perspectives strengthen our mission. We work together—staff, volunteers, city partners, and community to advance shared goals. Education Specialists at the Virginia Zoo provide support for the Mission Engagement department with their expertise in teaching and developing formal educational programs and curriculum that aligns with the learning requirements of local educational institutions. These programs include school and group programs, homeschool programs, Scout programs, and camp programs.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
At least two years related experience working with educational programs or teaching in a classroom
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.
Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
Valid driver’s license
Ability to pass a background check

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (Education or Natural Science).
At least 1 year experience developing curriculum for school or camp programs that align with either state standards or age-appropriate concepts.

Responsibilities

Conduct Zoo educational programs that include, but are not limited to, on and off-site school, homeschool, camp, scout, and group programs.
Assist with the preparation, setup, execution and cleanup of Zoo educational programs.
Support the development of curriculum, training of staff and volunteers, and evaluation of all Zoo education programs.
Aid in the continued growth of the Zoo’s education programs by reviewing and revising existing programs and proposing new programs under the direction of the Education Programs Manager.
Facilitate communication between Virginia Zoo and contacts for current and future programs.
Support the evaluation and supervision of staff and volunteers’ execution of education programs.
Help develop learning resources for teachers and students related to education programs.
Coordinate relevant projects and tasks for Educators ensuring deadlines are met.
Follow all protocols set by the Animal Ambassador team to safely and independently handle and transport animal ambassadors.
Maintain current animal handling certification through on-going practice and training with animal ambassadors. Animal ambassadors include invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and small mammals.
Safely and independently handle Animal Ambassadors for education programs including school, homeschool, scout, camp, and group programs.
Assist Animal Ambassador Team with animal husbandry as needed, including, but not limited to, cleaning habitats, preparing diets, feeding animals, and cleaning transports.
Effectively follow policies and procedures related to programing, including but not limited to scheduling, tracking, and documentation.
Remain up to date on information regarding zoo animals and conservation using Mission Engagement department resources to effectively deliver programs.
Other duties as assigned.