Preschool Lead

OKC Zoo•Oklahoma City, OK

21h•$15 - $18•Onsite

About The Position

The Preschool Lead Teacher at the Oklahoma City Zoo fosters the academic and social-emotional growth and development of children ages 2–5 through hands-on, nature-based learning. The role develops effective partnerships with co-teachers and ensures compliance with applicable state and local regulations and codes. The teacher works collegially with Zoo staff to support the Zoo’s mission and strategic goals. The position engages students in early childhood education through environmental and conservation education lessons that support the Zoo’s mission, vision, and values, as well as Oklahoma Academic Standards. Daily activities may include standards-aligned lessons, nature play, zoo tours, animal encounters, arts and crafts, games, and other experiences for mixed-age groups. The role facilitates fun and safe learning experiences that encourage preschoolers’ appreciation of wildlife and the natural world. The primary work location is the Zoo, both indoors and outdoors. This position has a stated 40-hour schedule and may require a flexible schedule that includes evenings, weekends, holidays, and weather-related emergencies. It is non-exempt, and is listed as full-time/part-time. Pay is $14.75–$18.10 per hour. The position is subject to pre-employment and/or periodic background checks, including an intense background investigation.

Requirements

At least 6 months of experience working with preschool-age children ages 2–5 in a formal or informal educational setting.
High school diploma or GED.
Knowledge of early child development principles and practices and age-appropriate learning strategies.
Knowledge of customer service and guest-relations principles in an educational or similar setting.
Knowledge of computer software applications, including word processing, databases, and spreadsheets.
Skill in delivering educational presentations and speeches, identifying materials needed for program delivery, interpersonal and communication techniques, organization, and time management.
Ability to follow safety and operational protocols; identify workplace hazards and use appropriate safety equipment; manage multiple tasks and changing priorities; and identify solutions to problems.
Ability to work outdoors for extended periods in varying weather conditions and work a 40-hour schedule, including a flexible schedule with evenings, weekends, holidays, and weather-related emergencies.
Ability to successfully complete an intense background investigation.

Responsibilities

Facilitate nature-based learning experiences aligned with developmentally appropriate practices and Oklahoma Academic Standards across developmental domains.
Guide children through play, exploration, and structured learning experiences.
Maintain a safe environment for children by following established safety protocols and applying behavior-management practices.
Collaborate with co-teachers to deliver curriculum and manage classroom responsibilities.
Communicate with families regarding student development and participate in conferences and school events.
Handle issues efficiently and effectively.
Adapt to outdoor learning environments and changing classroom conditions.
Perform assigned duties in alignment with the Zoo’s conservation mission and core values.
Plan, organize, and implement educational activities.
Follow safety and operational protocols established by the Preschool, Zoo, and regulatory agencies.
Reinforce appropriate behaviors and redirect inappropriate behaviors in accordance with procedures.
Contribute to a positive work culture for the Education team and interact with children and parents in a welcoming and approachable manner.