Group and Family Programs Lead Educator (Full Time)

Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium•Kansas City, KS

23d

About The Position

The Group and Family Programs Lead Educator delivers educational and conservation programs for groups, families, and adults, including camps and overnights, while supervising participants and ensuring their safety and wellbeing. The position organizes and maintains program materials, supports curriculum and program development, and carries out administrative and coordination duties. It also helps promote the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium’s programs and events and supports the Zoo’s mission, strategic plan, and core values. The role assists Conservation & Education supervisors with developing and enhancing programs, writing curriculum, gathering and maintaining resources, supporting administration and communications, and coordinating program activities. It also helps colleagues through peer assistance and mentors and supervises program assistants. Program delivery includes lessons, hands-on activities, hikes, games, and overnight experiences indoors or outdoors, with communication with Zoo security as needed. The educator collaborates with Scout Leaders and supports badge and journey completion. The position requires independent, safety-minded judgment and may include other duties or special projects in the Zoo’s best interests.

Requirements

2–3 years of professional education or teaching experience.
Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office and audio-visual equipment.
Strong presentation, verbal, and written communication skills.
Valid driver’s license.
Ability to move equipment weighing up to 50 pounds, with or without assistance; assistance may depend on the task.
Willingness to become CPR/First-Aid certified.
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and overnight or evening hours, in all weather extremes.
Must pass a background and drug screening.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or GED preferred.
Coursework in education, biological sciences, or a related field desired.
Previous zoo, aquarium, or museum-related experience desired.
Experience coordinating camps, tours, and other fee-based programs desired.
Experience managing and/or working with volunteers desired.
Knowledge of classroom management techniques and skills using teaching aids, including animals, biofacts, artifacts, and library resources desired.
Knowledge of conservation, biological, or environmental teaching programs and interpretation.

Responsibilities

Assist Conservation & Education supervisors with developing and enhancing Group & Family programs.
Write curriculum and gather, organize, and maintain program resources and materials.
Provide administrative support, including maintaining files and records.
Coordinate and support programs and assist with communication with parents and participants.
Improve knowledge of science education techniques and content.
Observe and provide peer assistance to colleagues; mentor and supervise program assistants.
Help facilitate and implement the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium’s mission, strategic plan, and core values.
Deliver conservation and educational programs using lessons, hands-on activities, hikes, and games.
Supervise program participants and ensure their safety and wellbeing.
Facilitate and supervise indoor or outdoor overnights and communicate effectively with Zoo security staff.
Collaborate with Scout Leaders and assist with badge and journey completion.
Make decisions that prioritize safety, integrity, and professionalism, including when working without direct oversight.
Assist in promoting the Zoo & Aquarium’s programs and events.
Perform other duties or special projects as assigned in the best interests of the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium.