Interpretive Program Coordinator

Toledo Zoo•Toledo, OH

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The Toledo Zoo & Aquarium is seeking a full-time Interpretive Program Coordinator who is passionate about learning new things and providing guests with the best possible experience. This position coordinates all programming activities related to Nature’s Neighborhood Children’s Zoo, Museum, Behind the Scenes Tours, and Zoo-wide guest interpretation. Responsibilities include program development and execution, hiring, supervising, training, and scheduling of support staff. The role also involves handling animals, creating lesson plans, assisting with facility maintenance, attending meetings, and maintaining reports and budgets. The coordinator will frequently assist with other department programs in a teaching role, such as school, camp, scout, and family programs.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in education, biology or a related field.
A minimum of one year of experience in public programming in an informal setting.
Must be 21+ years of age.
Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by programming schedule or other department needs.
Must possess a valid driver’s license and be insurable by the fleet insurance carrier.

Nice To Haves

Work experience may be substituted for a degree.
Completion of Certified Interpretive Guide training is preferred.

Responsibilities

Plans and executes all programming elements for Nature’s Neighborhood, ProMedica Museum of Natural History, Behind the Scenes Tours, and exhibit interpretation.
Facilitates and trains staff in various education techniques including inquiry and play-based learning.
Keeps current on research findings on environmental topics and appropriate education pedagogy.
Hires, supervises, trains, and schedules interpretive and tour staff and volunteers.
Supervises Tour and Interpretive Specialist.
Teaches educational programs to public participants of all ages, including but not limited to camps, stage shows, school programs, homeschool programs, scout programs, and exhibit interpretation.
Develops programs, creates and writes lesson plans, handles animals for education programming, attends meetings and maintains various reports and records.
Assists in marketing of all department programs through various forms of media and direct campaigns.
Assists in budget preparation for areas of responsibility and operates programs within budget.
Writes and assists in the preparation of proposals for projects.
Receives, reviews, prepares and/or submits various reports and records including confirmations, department accounts, research reports, lesson plans, use reports, budget reports, purchase requisitions and general office correspondence.
Utilizes various types of technology and software including computer, multimedia equipment, registration and general office software.
Serves as department point person in absence of Education Department management.
Assists with other Education Department functions including but not limited to facilitation, preparation and execution of other interpretive programming.