Overnight Education Programmer

Agency Dept of Natural and Cultural Resources Division Job  Classification Title Zoo Educator (S)
Position NumberGradeNC
06

About UsThe North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) takes care of the things that people love about North Carolina. DNCR manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program.

The Department’s vision is to be the leader in using the state's natural and cultural resources to build the social, cultural, educational, and economic future of North Carolina. Everyone is welcome. For more information, please visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). We encourage you to apply to become a part of our team!

Description of Work The North Carolina Zoo has an exciting opportunity to join our team. We are seeking a dynamic, efficient, and enthusiastic individual to serve as an Overnight Education Programmer.

The primary role of this position is to deliver engaging programs for community groups, Zoo experiences, and Zoo guests both on‑site and at off‑site locations up to 100 miles from the Zoo. The secondary role is to connect guests with the Zoo’s conservation and animal welfare initiatives through their assigned Investigation Stations.

Key Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Present and evaluate non‑formal education programs for community groups, Zoo experiences, Zoo guests, and overnight guests as part of a collaborative team.

Use live animals and biofacts to tailor programs to the needs and interests of diverse audiences.

Safely transport live animals and biofacts throughout the Zoo, ensuring proper handling, accountability, and adherence to safety protocols.

Staff Investigation Stations to support the Zoo’s mission in conservation and animal welfare.

Engage and educate guests during their overnight experiences.

Supervise overnight guests and ensure their safety while on Zoo grounds.

Assist with CES department programming needs as assigned.

Maintain a working knowledge of all relevant policies and procedures.

Knowledge

Skills and Abilities

/Management Preferences Recruitment Range: $17.00 per hour

To receive credit for your work history and credentials, you must provide the information on the application form. Any information omitted from the application form, listed as general statements, listed under the text resume section, or on an attachment will not be considered for qualifying credit.

Candidates meet the minimum qualifications of this position if they meet the minimum education and experience listed on the vacancy announcement. Vacancy specific knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) and/or management preferences are not required. Applicants who possess the following are preferred:

Management Prefers Experience handling animal ambassador as part of educational programming

First Aid and CPR certification

Position &

Physical Requirements Must be available to work a diverse work schedule with most hours falling between 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Saturday-Friday or overnights (3:30 pm to 10:00 am) as an Overnight Educator (Fridays & Saturdays), from March – mid-November. Will work weekends, holidays, and after hour/early morning special events.

Knowledge of basic natural sciences such as: zoology, biology, or ecology.

Knowledge of basic educational and interpretive techniques.

Must have public speaking experience with the ability to correctly answer questions and patiently explain difficult material.

Experience working with all ages and being able to provide age-appropriate programs.

Strong communication, decision-making, and organizational skills with ability to work effectively in a team setting and alone.

Strong problem-solving skills and ability to take initiative…