Zoo Education Instructor

Job Summary

Under regular direction and in compliance with standard operating procedures and policies, develops, prepares, and presents wildlife education and conservation programs to all age groups both on and off Zoo grounds. Demonstrates/possesses comprehensive classroom management skills. Communicates frequently with parents, schools, Zoo guests, and volunteers. Presents education animals in an informative manner. Registers participants for courses/programs, tracks participant registration and payments and utilizes online surveys for post visit evaluations from participants.

Responsible for learning and operating sophisticated software programs and hardware including distance learning video‑conferencing equipment, interactive displays, email, social media, computer communication, and other electronic equipment. Assists in the development and training with instructional manuals for docents, interns, and volunteers. Serves as a lead for certain programs and cross‑trains in all areas including, but not limited to home school, distance learning, family programs, zoo‑mobile, Nature Play initiative or birthday parties.

Participates in animal training in conjunction with the animal care keeper assigned to education. Implements operant conditioning techniques with supportive documentation. Maintains the cleanliness and appearance of the Zoo education building. Assists with organizing special events. Works evenings and/or weekend days.

• Teach Classes (40%):
  Prepare the classroom or vehicle to be used, move animals to the desired location, present animals in an informative way to students, and deliver wildlife education and conservation programs to all age groups both on and off Zoo groundsli>
• Perform Program Registration & Administrative Support (25%):
  Register participants via mail, telephone, or web; track registration in spreadsheets; invoice participants and track payments; use online surveys for post‑visit evaluations; use email, social media and other computer functions.
• Plan & Develop Programs (20%):
  Research and develop program options; create schedules and topics; plan crafts or other activities; purchase materials; evaluate and update existing programs.
• Train Animals (10%):
  Maintain training logs and plans for animals in concert with the Greenville Zoo’s Operant Conditioning Plan; work with animals concerning operant conditioning techniques.
• Maintain Building (5%):
  Maintain cleanliness and appearance of Zoo education classrooms, offices, and related areas.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, nature science, or a related field.
• Over one (1) year of experience working with children.
• At least one (1) year of teaching experience.

• Animal handling experience.

• Valid South Carolina Class D Driver's License.

• Conservation issues, ecology, outdoor education topics, zoo‑keeping and/or biology.
• Acquisition, husbandry and behavioral training of different species, exotic and domestic animals.
• Safety principles for working with domestic and non‑domestic animals.
• Comprehensive classroom management skills.
• Early childhood education principles and interpretive education techniques.
• Educational components of special events and coordination and organization of special events.
• Distance learning video‑conferencing equipment, interactive displays, social media, computer communication and other electronic equipment.

• Work directly with animals to present animal‑based programs both on and off Zoo grounds.
• Participate in Zoo‑provided comprehensive animal handling training and protocol.
• Safely handle animals, enter Zoo exhibits, and perform animal husbandry tasks.
• Research and implement curricula for various age groups.
• Organize, plan, collaborate and implement educational presentations.
• Present and supervise engaging animal shows, classes, and other educational programs for all ages.
• Utilize a variety of communication and interpersonal skills to interact successfully with people at a number of levels inside and/or outside the organization including parents, schools, Zoo guests, and volunteers.
• Maintain…