Conservation Education Specialist - Part Time

Description

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.

Requirements

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