Educator, Youth Development

Topeka Zoo

Educator

Position Mission:
This position supports the organization by ensuring quality, fun and educational programming in line with our Mission and Sustainability goals. You bring significant value through your messaging and passion to enrich the community through wildlife conservation and education, influencing change. You contribute to the bottom line by delivering quality experiences that increase our guest visits.

Essential Functions:

Responsible for education programming, including the development of the live animal programs, as well as conducting and evaluating them. These programs include on- and off-grounds classes, birthday parties, and adventure camps. Class audiences include the public, school groups, libraries, senior living centers, preschools/daycares, businesses, scout groups, groups with special needs, homeschool groups, and others.

Core Responsibilities:

* Curriculum Development & Program Design:

Assist the Education Director in developing and writing engaging, informative, and age-appropriate curricula for educational programs across multiple formats (on-site, off-site, camps, outreach, etc.). Ensure that programs align with national and state educational standards, and reflect the zoo's mission, conservation goals, and sustainability initiatives.

* Program Facilitation & Instruction:

Lead and deliver educational programming for diverse groups, including school groups (K-12), youth groups, adult audiences, libraries, senior living centers, and community organizations. Facilitate programs such as school visits, birthday parties, camps, outreach activities, and special events, adjusting content to suit the age, background, and interests of each group.

* Adaptability & Flexibility:

Demonstrate the ability to adapt programming based on changing conditions, such as weather, animal behavior, or participant needs. Exhibit creativity in adjusting lesson plans or approaches on the fly to ensure the program remains engaging and educational for all audiences.

* Animal Handling &

Education:

Safely handle and transport live educational animals, including small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and invertebrates, while maintaining high standards of animal care. Ensure the safe and ethical use of animals in educational settings and ensure that staff is trained on these best practices.

* Community Engagement & Influence:

Champion the zoo's mission and conservation message during all interactions with program participants. Influence change by promoting conservation efforts and environmental education to diverse audiences, ranging from young children to adults. Engage participants and inspire them to be active, informed advocates for wildlife and the environment.

* Customer Service & Communication:

Provide excellent customer service to all guests and program participants, ensuring that they have a positive and educational experience. Communicate effectively with supervisors, co-workers, and participants, fostering an atmosphere of respect and enthusiasm.

* Program Evaluation & Improvement:

Participate in the evaluation of educational programs, assessing feedback from participants, staff, and other stakeholders. Use this feedback to refine and improve future programs, ensuring that they continue to meet educational goals and provide high-quality experiences.

* High-Energy Environment:

Maintain a high level of energy and enthusiasm throughout the workday. Be proactive in engaging with participants, adapting to different environments, and ensuring that each program is executed with passion and commitment.

* Collaboration & Professional Development:

Work closely with the Education Program Manager and team members to ensure educational programs meet the zoo's strategic goals. Collaborate cross-departmentally, especially with Marketing, Guest Services, and Animal Care, to ensure programs are effectively promoted, delivered, and aligned with zoo-wide initiatives. Engage in continuous professional development to stay current with the latest trends in education, wildlife conservation, and animal care.

* Program Documentation & Reporting:

Maintain accurate records of program content, participant feedback, and attendance. Assist with tracking performance metrics and reporting on program effectiveness.

* Behavior Management & Group Engagement:

Maintain a positive and engaging learning environment by effectively managing group behavior, especially in programs involving children or large groups. Ensure that all participants are involved and safely engaged throughout the program.

* Mentorship & Program Enhancement:

Work with and mentor other staff, such as docents and keeper staff, to express the zoo's educational messaging effectively. Enhance the educational value of programs by collaborating with Animal Care to provide participants with meaningful interactions and insights into animal conservation.

General Responsibilities:

* Maintain a professional, courteous, and tactful demeanor when interacting with guests, co-workers, and…