Adjunct Conservation Educator

Job Description

Job Title: Adjunct Conservation Educator
Reports To: Program Coordinator
Location: Bronx
Job Type: Permanent Part Time
Department: Education
Job Description: Location:
Bronx Zoo
Start Date: September 2026
Schedule: School Year (Sept-May):
Tues, Thurs, Fri, Sat, 8:30am-4:30pm (~30 hours/week)
Summer (June-August):
Monday through Friday 8:00am-4:00pm (~38 hours/week)
Pay Rate: $23.00 per hour

The WCS Education Department works across our five wildlife parks:
Bronx Zoo, Central Park Zoo, Queens Zoo, Prospect Park Zoo, and New York Aquarium. Our mission is to inspire a diverse and inclusive movement of conservation advocates by sparking connection with animals and nature, enhancing scientific literacy through hands-on investigation, and engaging constituents in stewardship and action to conserve wildlife and wild places.
WCS is proud to be an equal opportunity employment workplace dedicated to pursuing and hiring a diverse workforce. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive work and learning environment and look for future team members who share our values.

The Adjunct Conservation Educator (Adjunct) will focus on teaching a variety of programs for children of all ages, including school field trips and scout programs, general audience programs, community days, summer camp, and other programs as needed. The Adjunct will join a team of WCS Educators to lead programs, modify activities to fit unique learning styles of students, and maintain a lively learning environment.

The Adjunct will work with a wide variety of audiences including toddlers, youth, teens, scouts, school groups, families and adults. The Adjunct will report to work on-site at the Bronx Zoo; this is not a remote work opportunity.

• Teach a variety of school programs, with a primary focus on PreK-12 grade audiences, as well as other programs including, but not limited to, family programs, scout programs, school break and summer camps.
• Supervise and interact with children ranging in age from 2-17 years old
• Maintain a fun and lively learning environment
• Prepare and organize materials for programs
• Collaborate on developing curriculum for programs
• Train in the proper handling and presentation protocols of the Bronx Zoo’s tractable animal collection under the supervision of the Tractable Animal Team
• Attend regular staff meetings and participate in staff development
• Perform all related tasks and duties as assigned Comply with all policies and procedures as presented by WCS and the WCS Education Department, including health and safety policies

• High School diploma or GED
• One-year prior teaching experience
• Ability to work within a highly team-oriented environment, as well as independently
• Excellent verbal communication skills to help interpret science concepts in online settings, classroom settings and at zoo exhibits
• Reliable, flexible and accountable
• Weekend availability is required
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 25lbs and spend long periods of time outdoors
• Must possess a valid driver’s license

• Educational background in ecology, environmental science or education
• Some experience handling or working with animals
• Bilingual/Spanish speaker is a plus

Research shows that women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that an applicant meets 100% of the qualifications for a given role. Therefore, if much of this job description describes YOU, then YOU are highly encouraged to apply.

We value team members and community partners from all backgrounds and cultures with different skills, abilities, and perspectives.

We ensure that everyone has an opportunity to fully contribute to our mission.

• We value creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and building a culture where everyone is welcomed and can flourish.
• As PT staff, you will receive access to Bronx Zoo and other WCS parks
• It is everyone’s responsibility to ensure that we do not tolerate discrimination or harassment based upon a…