Part-Time Wildlife Education Specialist

Part-Time Wildlife Education Specialist

Lake Metroparks Kirtland, Ohio, United States

Part-Time Wildlife Education Specialist

Wildlife Education Specialist Part-Time (Non-Exempt)
Rate: $13.00 starting hourly rate to $16.00 max hourly rate Pay Grade: [PT] | Starting salary based on prior experience and education.
Location: Penitentiary Glen Reservation, Kirtland, OH 44094 Position Summary: Lake Metroparks is seeking a Wildlife Education Specialist (Part‑Time) to support wildlife education, conservation awareness, and animal ambassador care at Penitentiary Glen Reservation. The Wildlife Education Specialist develops and delivers educational programs, creates interpretive and visitor resources, and assists with the daily care, handling, enrichment, and welfare of animal ambassadors. This position works up to 28 hours per week and requires a flexible schedule that may include weekdays, evenings, weekends, and holiday.

• Associate or bachelor's degree in wildlife biology, zoology, natural sciences, environmental education, interpretation, or a related field preferred.
• Equivalent combinations of education, training, and relevant experience may be considered.
• One to two years of experience in wildlife care, animal handling, environmental education, interpretation, public programming, or a related field preferred.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and be insurable under the Park District's liability policy.
• Successful completion of a pre‑employment drug screen and background check is required.
• Must be available to work a variable schedule, including weekdays, weekends, evenings, and holidays, and to work outdoors in changing weather conditions.
• Must be able to perform the essential duties of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Must be able to safely operate Park District vehicles and job‑related equipment and remain insurable under the Park District's liability policy.
• Must be able to work independently and cooperatively with employees, volunteers, and community partners.

• Must be willing to obtain pre‑exposure rabies vaccination.
• Must have proof of a recent tetanus vaccination or the ability to obtain one within a timeframe agreed upon with the manager.

• Delivers prepared and original school, community, and public programs focused on wildlife, conservation, and responsible environmental stewardship.
• Provides daily care for animal ambassadors, including feeding, cleaning, enrichment, observation, recordkeeping, and support for approved training and handling practices.
• Safely handles animal ambassadors for educational programs and demonstrations in accordance with established protocols and training.
• Researches, evaluates, edits, and develops curricula, interpretive programs, displays, signs, brochures, and other educational resources for varied audiences and learning needs.
• Supports special events, public demonstrations, outreach activities, and visitor engagement at assigned Lake Metroparks facilities and off‑site program locations.
• Maintains accurate program, animal‑care, supply, and incident records as assigned.
• Follows all applicable safety procedures, reports hazards or incidents promptly, and supports a safe environment for participants, visitors, volunteers, and staff.
• Performs other duties related to the position as assigned.

This position has no supervisory duties.

To perform this position…