School & Community Engagement Educator (Part Time)

Kansas City Zoo•Kansas City, MO

6d•$19

About The Position

Under general direction, the School & Community Engagement Educator delivers a variety of education programs that engage and empower diverse audiences to become advocates for wildlife and nature. This position is primarily involved in facilitating on and offsite programming for schools and community organizations, as well as developing curriculum, handling ambassador animals, and assisting with program materials maintenance.

Requirements

High School diploma or GED, required.
Must pass a background and drug screening.
Must have valid driver’s license.
Can move equipment weighing up to 50 pounds, with or without assistance. Assistance depending upon task.
Must be willing to become CPR/First-Aid certified.
Position requires animal contact.
Must have or be able to obtain negative TB test.
Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and overnight/evening hours, in all weather extremes.

Nice To Haves

Course work in education, biological sciences or related field, desired.
1-year formal or informal education or teaching experience desired.
Previous zoo, aquarium, or museum related experience desired.
Knowledge of classroom management techniques and/or skills using teaching aids.
Previous experience in animal handling and knowledge of appropriate and safe handling techniques desired.
Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office and audio-visual equipment desired
Strong presentation, verbal, and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

Delivers on-site and off-site educational programming including but not limited to Zoomobiles, homeschool programming, classroom experiences, and community programs or events.
Facilitates and scaffolds programs for diverse audiences of various sizes, backgrounds, ages, and abilities.
Maintains a general understanding of the animal collection, conservation projects and sustainability initiatives and effectively communicates appropriate conservation messaging to audiences.
Embraces a variety of teaching and learning styles as appropriate for each program, such as co-teaching, independent teaching, project-based learning, and inquiry-based learning.
Thinks flexibly when appropriate to address challenges. Consistently makes decisions without direct oversight that champion safety, integrity, and professionalism in all contexts.
Supports inclusive teaching strategies, continuously modifies presentation style, and incorporates inquiry-driven learning models to provide a successful learning experience for all audiences.
Presents ambassador animals and ensures their safety and the safety of the audience while doing on and offsite programs.
Assists with program evaluation and modification, assists in developing new and improving existing program curriculum.
Curates supplemental resources such as books, biofacts, videos, and images to support program learning goals.
Collaborates on the development of ZooED curriculum and materials and provides program support as necessary.
Thoughtfully integrates technology into programming to enhance audience experience and provide avenues for inclusive and accessible participation
Follows protocol and implements best practices related to animal welfare, husbandry, and training.
Periodically assists with the care of ambassador animals including habitat cleaning, diet preparation, enrichment, and training.
Maintains an organized inventory of supplies, equipment, and tools required for implementing assigned programs.
Contributes to the upkeep of spaces and resources needed for program execution.
Assists with facilitating and implanting the mission, strategic plan, and core values of the Zoo and Aquarium.