Lead Formal Education Instructor
About The Position
Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium is seeking a part-time Lead Formal Education Instructor to support school-based and formal education programs within the Education Department. This position plays a key role in delivering engaging, mission-driven learning experiences that promote conservation behavior and stewardship for all living organisms. The Lead Formal Education Instructor supports the Education Program Manager – Schools by coordinating and overseeing the scheduling of student workshops and special arrangement tours, serving as the primary instructor for these programs, aids in the development of formal education programs, and provides instructional support in Zoo Schools when needed. This role reports to the Education Program Manager – Schools.
Requirements
- Applicant must be at least 18 years of age or older.
- Weekday and/or weekend availability required (including some evening hours).
- This position requires a minimum of 30 hours of availability weekly. Peak season may be up to 40 hours per week.
- Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.
- Enjoys working with children and learners of diverse ages, backgrounds, and abilities.
- Enthusiastic about wildlife, ecology, conservation, and environmental education.
- Comfortable teaching in both classroom and outdoor settings.
- Ability to follow established curriculum while adapting delivery to different audiences.
- Strong classroom management and student engagement skills.
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint preferred.
- Candidates might be (depending on position) required to pass a pre-employment background check, drug test, negative skin tuberculosis test.
- Must be able to travel long distances across the Zoo.
- Will sometimes work extended/odd hours including weekends, holidays and some night programs.
- Physical effort may be required.
- Work is performed indoors and outdoors, under all weather conditions.
Nice To Haves
- Teaching certificate, coursework in education, environmental science, biology, or related field, or relevant professional experience preferred.
Responsibilities
- Oversee scheduling and coordination of student workshops and special arrangement tours, including communication with schools, teachers, and internal zoo departments.
- Serve as the instructor for formal education programs, delivering curriculum-aligned, inquiry-based learning experiences for students of all ages.
- Provide instructional support in Zoo schools as needed to ensure program continuity.
- Implement established curriculum, exhibit guides, and program materials that align with state and national standards and Zoo conservation messaging.
- Assist with preparation, organization, and upkeep of program materials, resources, and supplies.
- Ensure the safety, supervision, and positive experience of all students participating in formal education programs.
- Support program logistics including attendance tracking, basic record keeping, and post-program reporting as assigned.
- Collaborate with Education staff to maintain consistent messaging and high-quality learning environments.
- Represent the Zoo professionally when working with students, teachers, parents, and guests.
- Demonstrate flexibility in scheduling, including availability for occasional weekends, holidays, and early morning programs.
- Performs other duties as assigned to support the Education Department.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
