Conservation Education Specialist - Part Time

Job Summary:

Under the direction of the Director of Conservation Education, s/he will conceptualize and assist in the development of mission related, educationally meaningful and cost effective programs that generate significant earned income and grant support. S/he will ensure that there is a high level of program quality, and that programs align with the departmental strategic framework and demonstrate impact. This part-time position is an integral part of the Lehigh Valley Zoo.

Main Duties & Responsibilities:

• Develops, implements, and evaluates, on and off site programming. This may include camps, encounters, meet and greets, and more.

• Works collaboratively with Education Director in proactively seeking opportunities for revenue generation.

• Develops relationships with public, and private schools, PTA’s, Boards of Cooperative Educational Services and other education related entities

• Develops strong working relationships with staff in other departments to create a dynamic network that cultivates innovation and team development.

• Develops program ideas for grants, and once awarded, oversees all aspects of the programs and ensures compliance with all grant requirements.

• Support the creation of innovative curriculum that inspires and fulfills the needs of primary and secondary teachers in meeting Pennsylvania’s educational standards.

• Support the creation of innovative and attractive adult and family oriented programming that fulfills the needs and desires of the community and encourages return visitation of our general audience.

• Support the creation of programming attractive to a variety of sizes and types of groups.

• Collaborates with representatives from the community to provide programming that promotes the Zoo mission

• Ensure programming meets Pennsylvania and Federal Standards for Education (STEAM)

• Answer phone calls, emails and participate in scheduling for all programming.

• Participate in the creation and implementation of training plans for the ambassador animal collection.

Other Duties:

• Research educational information for training, programming, exhibit graphics, newsletters, activity guides, and other informational projects.

• Education Programs - gather materials, prepare and gather animals, set up materials, facilitate the program, return animals to their enclosures, place materials back to proper location, clean-up.

• Organize materials, keep workspace, classrooms, etc. clean, neat and organized.

• Directly communicate with the Director of Conservation Education in terms of education programs, Ambassador Animals and other related matters.

• General maintenance as needed.

• Participate in the training, and socialization of Ambassador Animals; including African penguins.

• Perform other related work as required.

Skills Competencies:

· High proficiency in all areas of Microsoft Office to include Outlook, Work, Excel and PowerPoint.

· Detail oriented and organized

· Excellent written communication skills

· Able to communicate effectively

· Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently with purpose and accuracy as well in a group setting.

· Excellent time management with ability to multitask and adhere to deadlines

· Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships

· Demonstrated leadership abilities and strategic thinking

Qualifications & Experience:

· Experience working in a school, education department at a zoo, museum, or informal learning center preferred.

· Effective presentation skills.

· Knowledge and skill in handling animals.

· Must be willing to work weekends, holidays, and occasional after-hour or overnight assignments, in all weather conditions.

· Must possess a valid driver’s license

· Satisfactory results required on criminal record check and child abuse history clearance