Learning & Engagement Specialist Grounds Programs; Seasonal

Pay Range

Pay Range: To maintain internal equity, we have identified the starting range for this position at the Oakland Zoo as $23.04 - $24.90 per hour
. An offer within this range will be determined by the experience and qualifications of a candidate and will be our best and final compensation offer. This is a seasonal position.

. The position is anticipated to start March 18 2026 and end September 30 2026, with potential to extend depending on the needs of the organization.

Serves as a first-line facilitator, delivering interactive, safe, engaging and high-quality public programs. Helps with the execution of on-site interpretive programming that furthers the mission of the Zoo. Will serve to engage Zoo visitors in a variety of ways, including but not limited to holding informal interpretive conversations and by running the interactive exploration space known as The Habitarium.

• Prepares and delivers all education programming in an informative, safe, engaging, and high-quality manner.
• Serves as a technical resource to visitors in way finding and providing information.
• Follows animal protocols and obtain/maintain Animal Handling certifications.
• Provides support for other Learning & Engagement Department leads on facilitation of additional programming, including but not limited to:
• Wildlife Assembly
• Zoo Mobile
• Zoo School
• Zoo Camp
• Community outreach/tabling
• Volunteer and docent programs
• Provide support implementing the Zoo’s free, on-grounds programming, including but not limited to:
• Pathway Encounter animal ambassador meet and greets
• Animal Highlight talks
• Roving/informal interpretation
• Habitarium exploration space facilitation
• Nature journaling
• Trading Card Wednesday
• Crafting sessions
• Story times
• Provide support for other Learning & Engagement Department leads on facilitation of additional programming, including but not limited to:
• Zoo Camp
• Community outreach/tabling
• Volunteer and docent programs
• Act as department ambassadors in aiding other extra-departmental Zoo entities for occasional special events
• Maintain positive attitude and collaborative working relationships with volunteers, co-workers, program participants, and internal and external guests.
• Demonstrate superior guest engagement with vendors, visitors, students, parents, etc.
• Demonstrate knowledge of, and support the California Conservation Society’s mission, vision, values, standards, policies and procedures, operating instructions, confidentiality standards, and codes of behavior.

• Participate in collaborations with CSC partners
• Collaborate with Learning & Engagement Department leadership on program development
• Perform other related duties as required and assigned

None

• Minimum of 1 year of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience, which should include some experience providing science communication/interpretation in zoos, aquariums, museums, science centers, or other similar institution
• A proven ability to teach rigorous conservation education and willingness to obtain training to handle program animals.
• Commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within the learning environment.
• Classroom management skills
• Knowledge of animals and current conservation issues
• Possesses a valid Driver's License (or willingness to get one within the first 3 months of employment) with a clean driving record to obtain authorization from the Zoo’s Insurance provider
• Ability to work four 7.0-hour days per week, including one weekend day

• College level coursework in biology, zoology, environmental science, animal behavior, and/or education
• Certified Interpretive Guide completed through the National Association for Interpretation

The physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Must be able to walk moderate hills, be on feet for 90 minutes, and lift 35 lbs.