Part Time Educator (accessibility and inclusion focus)

Lincoln Park Zoological Society • Chicago, IL

1d

About The Position

Lincoln Park Zoo inspires communities to create environments where wildlife will thrive in our urbanizing world. The zoo is a leader in local and global conservation, animal care and welfare, learning, and science. A historic Chicago landmark founded in 1868, the not-for-profit Lincoln Park Zoo, is a privately-managed, member-supported organization and is free and open 365 days a year. Visit us at lpzoo.org. GENERAL SUMMARY The Part Time Educator (Accessibility & Inclusion focus) is responsible for guiding learner-centered experiences both on zoo grounds and in virtual programs for guests with disabilities. Under the direction of the Hart Prins Fund Accessibility & Inclusion Manager, this individual will provide meaningful experiences that connect guests to wildlife, utilizing best practices in both informal learning and accessibility and inclusion. This position is responsible for conducting the majority of Lincoln Park Zoo’s A&I programming. The ideal candidate is able to work with a variety of people in a collaborative fashion with an eye towards quality programming and excellent guest experience This is a part-time position at 24 hours per week. The position runs from April 1 – Nov. 25, 2026. Candidates must be available on weekends and evenings.

Requirements

• Ability to work with groups on zoo grounds and in a virtual environment.
• Ability to adapt to a rapidly changing environment and guest needs.
• Ability to expect variation in learning, communication, and interactions with guests and pivot to support them in the moment.
• Ability to interact comfortably with culturally and linguistically diverse guests and guests with disabilities.
• Ability to work in a team and problem solve to ensure timely completion of all projects and programs.
• Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, zoo visitors and general public.
• Have reliable transportation.
• Dependable and punctual.
• Preferred candidates will have high school degree or GED.
• 1-3 years’ experience working with people who have disabilities.
• 1-3 years’ experience with informal and/or formal education, early childhood, performance, cultural interpretation, museum studies, biology, conversation, or related fields.
• Capable of independently moving across zoo grounds, remaining stationary for long periods of time, and working in a variety of weather conditions.
• Must be able to move equipment on a rolling cart or in wagon.
• Available to work weekends, evenings, and special events which may occur outside of regular work schedule.
• Ability to pass a background check.

Nice To Haves

• American Sign Language fluency is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design, prepare and deliver programs that align to the zoo’s learning framework and support learning variation, including:
• Preparing a written program plan in advance
• Independently or collaboratively facilitating programs, such as Sensory-Friendly Mornings, customized group visits, and more.
• Setting up and breaking down all materials for programs which they facilitate.
• Provide flexible accessibility for a wide range of disabilities and support guests with appropriate accommodations during programs.
• Work with guests of all age levels and abilities.
• Manage groups on zoo grounds during busy visitation periods.
• Support the Hart Prins Fund Accessibility & Inclusion Manager during select programs he leads.
• Foster a welcoming and inclusion space for learning.
• Support other Learning programs as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• In addition to such standard benefits ( Blue Cross Blue Shield) as medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverages, and a 403(b) savings plan with an institutional match, benefits of working at the zoo include (benefits are for regular full time employees):
• Free admission to many other Chicago cultural institutions
• Free on-site parking anytime with access to Lincoln Park, Lakeshore Trail, and North Avenue Beach
• Discounts on event tickets (free admission to select events), attractions, dining, and retail at the zoo
• Quarterly staff mingle events and “LPZooU” training and educational sessions about the zoo, wildlife, ecology, and related subjects
• Company contribution to Health Savings Account (Medical PPO only)
• A working environment with green spaces and regularly available visits with wildlife!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED