What are the responsibilities and job description for the Educator (Visitor Engagement) position at Columbus Zoo and Aquarium?
Overview
This position is responsible for ensuring that visitors to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium are engaged in the Zoo’s mission and in the Conservation Education and Engagement Department’s behavioral outcomes in a fun and meaningful way. Support of guest and team member learning and research through training and the curation of the Zoo’s information database, historical artifacts/documents, and biofacts is integral. Utilize interpretive communication skills to share mission-based messaging creatively using a variety of methods. Guest engagement roles include tour guide, animal contact areas interpreter, creator of interpretive talks and signage, and other activities under the direction of the Director of Visitor Education and Engagement.
Responsibilities
- Develops and implements guest experience programming such as tours, contact areas and weekend, weekday, and evening programs in conjunction with fellow Educators and under the direction of the Director, working with all age groups.
- Trains new and existing seasonal staff and volunteers on how to present and facilitate tours and programs.
- Works collaboratively with a variety of teams and departments throughout the Zoo to support tours, programs, and contact areas.
- Ensures programs and activities meet conservation behavioral outcomes through the program design and evaluation process.
- Curates and organizes animal and Zoo information, biofacts, and historical documents for internal and external engagement and education.
- Functions as a team leader, along with other Educators, to assist Director in facilitating activities such as scheduling, recruitment/retention and providing work direction for seasonal staff.
- Assists Director in the development and implementation of interpretive content through signage, events, & other methods to support the Zoo’s mission and inspire conservation action.
- Assists Director in the ongoing evaluation of guest experiences and interpretive messaging.
- Maintains confidentiality of information related to children and adults participating in activities.
- Handles cash when needed.
- Constantly strives to further the mission of the organization and avidly supports the Columbus Zoo Family of Parks.
- Implements sustainable practices in daily tasks whenever possible.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Associate or Bachelors’ degree in environmental education, interpretation or related field required.
- 1-3 years’ related experience required.
- Competent in the planning and implementation of multiple concurrent projects and events without direct supervision required.
- Passion for inspiring people to conservation action required.
- Excellent written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills required.
- Exhibits professionalism, optimism, energy, and enthusiasm; enjoys working with diverse constituents; and thrives in a collaborative environment.
- Ability to be adaptable and maintain a positive attitude in sometimes stressful situations required.
- Ability to work in a team approach with department staff required.
- Knowledge of wildlife and conservation issues preferred.
- Current First Aid and CPR certification required.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule including evenings, weekends and holidays required.
- Ability to plan and organize work in an efficient and cost-effective manner and without direct supervision required.
- Ability to provide excellent guest service by interacting with guests positively and upholding the Make it G.R.E.A.T. standards required.
- Ability to develop and maintain cooperative working relationships with all Zoo team members and contacts regarding company business required.
- Ability to adhere to standard operating procedures including but not limited to safety protocols required.
- Proof of negative TB screening prior to placement and annually thereafter required.
- Possession of a valid Ohio motor vehicle operator’s license and a good driving record required.
- Ability to adhere to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s drug-free workplace policy including but not limited to pre-employment, random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, and follow-up treatment required.
- Ability to successfully complete a criminal history background check annually required.
Salary : $32,100 - $40,700
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