What are the responsibilities and job description for the Seasonal Education Interpreter position at Binder Park Zoo?
Looking for a fantastic job that is fun and rewarding? Do you enjoy working with people and helping guests have a great experience? Do you need flexible hours that work with your schedule? If so, we want to meet you!
We are looking for smiling faces to join our team at Binder Park Zoo for the 2025 season. Our mission is to connect people with nature and inspire them to conserve. We are passionate about educating on wildlife conservation and looking for enthusiastic people to be a part of the journey. Nestled in 433 acres of serene landscape, and home to over 70 different species, we are the third largest zoo in Michigan. Join our team where you will have the opportunity to work with friendly people and do something that supports wildlife advocacy. Ever work at a zoo, it’s fun! At Binder Park Zoo you will be a part of a dynamic and collaborative environment where your ideas and contributions are valued. We love what we do working at the zoo, and we think you will too.
What we offer:
What we offer:
- Competitive wages.
- Flexible hours to fit your work/life balance needs.
- Free fountain soda and coffee during your shift.
- 50% off your meals at our restaurants during your shift.
- Comprehensive training to build new skills.
- Free zoo membership.
EDUCATION INTERPRETER (SEASONAL)
Mission Statement: Connect. Inspire. Conserve. Connect people with nature. Inspire them to conserve.
REPORTS TO: Education Programs Manager
SEASONAL/NONSEASONAL: Seasonal, Non-benefited
FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Part-Time, Non-Exempt
POSITION SUMMARY:
To assist the zoo in accomplishing its mission leading Day Camps, Overnights, and tour experiences; interacting with zoo guests at animal exhibits; and assisting with other tasks and programs as needed.
FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Part-Time, Non-Exempt
POSITION SUMMARY:
To assist the zoo in accomplishing its mission leading Day Camps, Overnights, and tour experiences; interacting with zoo guests at animal exhibits; and assisting with other tasks and programs as needed.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
- Coursework leading toward a Bachelor’s degree in biology, zoology, education, childhood development, outdoor recreation, or related field is preferred
- Proof of negative TB test within one year and proof of tetanus shot within ten years.
- Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Previous work experience with children.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Teaching overnight education programs to large groups of various ages.
- Leading children ages 6-12 in day camp activities, including games, crafts, and nature walks.
- Guiding tour groups on experiences behind the scenes and front of scenes.
- Conducting informal interpretive interactions with zoo visitors.
- Assisting with Education programs for school groups, donor groups, etc., including on-grounds and outreach programs as assigned.
- Planning, organizing, and making independent decisions as necessary.
- Working with interns, volunteers and other interpreters.
- Working independently handling small to medium sized exotic and Michigan native animals.
- Communicating using hand held radios.
- Relate positively with diverse groups of people, including guests, staff, volunteers and vendors.
OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Assisting with other programs as needed.
- Complying with all Binder Park Zoo policies and procedures.
- Participating in team oriented zoo projects as needed.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: N/A
PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS:
PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS:
- Ability to work 18-20 hours overnight, sometimes sleeping on a hard surface.
- Ability to read, speak, and write English in order to fulfill job functions in an understandable way.
- Ability to sit, stand, bend, lift, and walk for up to 8 hours.
- Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds.
- Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
