Inclusion Specialist

Inclusion Specialist

Pay range:
To maintain internal equity, we have identified the starting range for this position at the Oakland Zoo as $28.67 - $31.74 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, in alignment with Oakland Zoo's compensation philosophy.

The Inclusion Specialist is part of the Learning & Engagement (L&E) Department at the Oakland Zoo and is responsible for creating and maintaining an inclusive and welcoming environment for all L&E program participants regardless of their abilities or backgrounds. This role works with L&E staff on program development and modification, identifies and addresses barriers to inclusion, and ensures that activities and accommodations are accessible to all participants.

This includes supporting new L&E hires in inclusion and accessibility trainings and developing supplemental accessibility tools and materials for all L&E programming.

The role leads inclusion efforts for the Zoo Camp program for kids entering grades K-8, across its Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer sessions. This includes training camp staff, particularly in supporting neurodivergent campers, developing individualized support plans with campers and families, and managing the scholarship program. The Inclusion Specialist will report directly to the Director of Learning & Engagement.

Learning and Engagement (L&E)

• Work with L&E staff on program development and modification to ensure inclusivity
• Collaborates with L&E staff to ensure that all activities and accommodations are accessible to all program participants.
• Support new hires in Inclusion and Accessibility trainings
• Develop supplemental accessibility tools and materials for all L&E Programming
• Support with scholarship program management for all L&E programs

Zoo Camp

• Develops and implements comprehensive inclusion plans for the camp program, which includes up to 164 campers per week.
• Provides training to camp staff on inclusive practices and strategies, specifically for working with neurodivergent campers.
• Works with campers and their families to develop individualized support plans, as needed.
• Identifies and addresses potential barriers to inclusion for campers with neurological or physical differences or from diverse backgrounds.
• Collaborates with camp staff to ensure that all activities and accommodations are accessible to all campers.
• Fosters a culture of inclusivity and respect among camp staff.
• Acts as a point of contact for any personal support people (such as paraprofessionals) assisting campers in a 1:1 capacity.
• Maintains open and effective communication with parents, campers, and staff about campers' experience and needs at camp.
• Prepares weekly camper reports and creates a plan with Instructors and Lead Instructors to support campers' individual needs.
• Monitors campers' behavior and ensures campers follow camp rules and regulations; addresses any issues promptly in accordance with the Zoo Camp behavior policy, reporting any larger issues to the Zoo Camp Program Manager.
• Provides direct support to campers during camp activities, as necessary.
• Steps in as a substitute instructor if there are excessive callouts.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• None.

• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience, which must include 3 years of experience working with students in grades K–8 in special education, or as a personal aid in a similar learning environment.
• Demonstrated ability to create and facilitate team training.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• At least 18 years old.
• Experience working in a collaborative team.
• High emotional intelligence, patience and…