Educator - Part Time; Seasonal

Are you passionate about connecting people of all ages to the wonders of wildlife and conservation? The Santa Barbara Zoo is seeking enthusiastic Educators to bring our mission to life through engaging programs like Zoo Safari, Zoo Camp, and school group experiences. Join our team to inspire curiosity and foster a love for nature in a hands-on, fun, and creative environment!

Note: This position is fully outdoors and requires extensive walking through Zoo grounds (hills and inclines) in all weather conditions

Position Status: Part-Time, seasonal, Hourly, Non-Exempt

Compensation: $18.40 per hour

Requirements: Applicant must be minimum 18 years of age. At this time, the Zoo does not sponsor employment or internship visas.

Schedule: Seasonal position, Up to 16-40 hours/work week during school breaks, vary during school year.

• Seasonal Camps (school breaks)

These positions are not hiring immediately but will consider applications as openings occur.

• School Year
  • Outdoor Ed:
    Currently Thursday and Fridays, shifts are 8 am – 3 pm
• Safari Overnights:
  Thursday, Friday and Saturday Nights to following day
• Experience Team: mainly Saturday and Sundays, with some weekday availability
• You must also complete the Zoo's Official Employment Application on the next page in order to be considered for the position*

Under the general direction of the Education Manager and Education Team, an Educator promotes the Zoo and its mission through implementing the Zoo Safari program;
Zoo Camp;
Home School programs; and presenting educational activities at on‑site and off‑site events.

A Seasonal Educator promotes the Zoo and its mission through the award‑winning Zoo Camp program, Homeschool Science program, Safari Sleepovers, Special Events and so much more. This position collaborates with fellow staff to bring the best Environmental and Animal Science curriculum to all of our participants (ages 3-15 yo). You will form lifelong memories for program participants, running a variety of programs focusing on the environment, ecology, and conservation in a fun, creative, and hands‑on manner.

• Presents educational programs for Safari guests focused on the environment, animals, conservation, and zoos in a fun, creative and hands‑on manner.
• Interacts constantly with Zoo Safari guests and staff to create a rewarding experience.
• Sets up for Zoo Safari program.
• Ensures proper and timely cleanup of the areas used for Zoo Safari.
• Maintains a professional appearance and attitude at all times as a representative of the Zoo.
• Prepares various educational materials for Zoo Safari program.
• Maintains the inventory of Zoo Safari supplies and requests needed supplies.
• Prepares required records and reports as needed.
• Coordinates with other departments at the Zoo for animal encounters and programming needs behind‑the‑scenes.
• Develops and leads or coordinates any special program requests as required.
• Arrives on time for scheduled shift, properly dressed and ready to begin work.
• Monitors activities to ensure adherence to rules and safety procedures to protect the environment, class participants and to maintain order.
• Responds to all guest inquiries, complaints, and comments according to Zoo guest relations procedures.
• Responds to health and welfare issues of Zoo Safari guests.
• Distributes program evaluations to program participants, collects evaluations, and submits them to supervisor for analysis of program effectiveness and quality.

• Assists with preparation and presentation of event education activities.
• Assists with volunteer check‑in and supervision at events

• Weekend availability required
• Guides guests on walking tours through zoo grounds
• Presents educational interpretation for zoo guests focused on the environment, animals, conservation, and zoos in a fun, creative and hands‑on manner
• Interacts with our guests and provides educational information through hosting Animal Experiences
• Assists with preparation and presentation of event education activities

• Supervises groups of up to 15 children while delivering camp…