Education Specialist

Job Classification: Full-time, permanent, 40 hours per week Work

Schedule: YOUR CHOICE of either Wednesday-Sunday 8:30am-5:30pm OR Thursday-Sunday 8:00am-7:00pm. Hours may vary slightly due to program schedule each week; however, they will stay within 40 hours/week.

Reporting Relationship: Education Program Manager; Director of Conservation and Education

Major Duties:

• Serve as the primary contact for the zoo’s robust birthday party program and conduct/supervise these parties to support zoo revenue.

• Plan and develop education programming to provide rewarding educational experiences.

• Serve as an instructor, providing outreach, public programming, school programming, and other education programs.

• Assist with programs for camps and other activities.

• Exhibit proper handling and transportation of live program animals, including a variety of small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and invertebrates.

• Communicate well with direct supervisors and co-workers as well as guests/public.

• Be proficient with the use of Microsoft programs and other computer data programs.

• Able to run errands, complete projects, and other duties as assigned.

• Able to work and complete tasks with minimal supervision.

• Punctuality and availability for scheduled work is expected.

• Provide excellent customer service to all guests at the Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center.

Skills:

• Must have strong leadership skills.

• Must have strong attention-to-detail skills and ability to adapt quickly and efficiently.

• Must enjoy working with people of all ages, including young children.

• Must be able to work efficiently and effectively unsupervised.

• Must be able to work well both in a team and individually.

• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.

• Ability to provide great customer service.

• Ability to setup and tear down props and other exhibit material to support instruction.

Mental Requirements:

• Ability to read and follow written instruction.

• Ability to follow verbal instructions.

• Ability to communicate effectively.

• Ability to use good judgment.

• Excellent listening skills.

• Must be self-motivated.

• Ability to remain calm in stressful situations.

• Ability to develop programs in line with the zoo's mission and value statements.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to exert physical effort in performing tasks.

• Ability to lift a minimum of 50 lbs.

• Ability to work in all weather conditions.

• Strong physical condition.

• Must be able to stand for long periods of time.

• Good hand-eye coordination.

• Ability to speak clearly and loudly.

How to apply:

Qualifications:

• A bachelor’s degree is preferred; Preference is given to those with a degree relating to Biology, Conservation, Environmental Sciences, Psychology, or Education.

• At least one year experience in a formal or informal education position is required.

• Must possess a valid driver’s license and have an insurable driving record.

• Must be CPR certified or willing to complete this upon hire.

Experience Preferred:

• Experience with public speaking in some capacity (examples: zoo/aquarium chats, school presentations, etc.).

• Experience working with wildlife education, classroom programming, or environmental education.

• Experience with youth groups.

• Experience with computer programs.

• Experience with customer service. 

Pay: $17/hour

Position includes full benefits, paid holidays, paid time off, 401k retirement plan (employer-matched), and zoo discounts.

To apply, please send resume and cover letter to hiring@topekazoo.org. Please put “Education Specialist Application” as the subject of your email. Cover letters can be addressed to Mrs. Rachael Rost-Allen and Mr. Dennis Dinwiddie. For questions, contact 785-368-9137.

Interview will include a request for a presentation on a selected topic. You will be given time to prepare.

Deadline to apply: August 30, 2022; Anticipated start date in October 2022