Informal Educator (PT)
Starting pay $8.80/hour

NATURE OF THE WORK

Informal Educators are responsible for conducting programming for the San Antonio Zoo. Programs include, but are not limited to, children’s classes, birthday parties, evening tours, overnights and summer camp. All programs and presentations are intended to inspire knowledge, appreciation and action within Zoo guests. Educators should carefully convey conservation messages in a fun way that is appropriate for participants. Informal Educators report to the Education Programs Supervisor and work closely with the San Antonio Zoo Education staff and volunteers.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Establish and maintain positive, cooperative, and effective working relations with fellow employees.
• Constantly exhibit a customer service attitude, a smile, and an obvious interest in visitor comfort and service.
• Communicate with the public in a courteous and tactful manner and assist visitors with questions and directions to various areas of the Zoo.  Address the visitor - do not wait to be asked.
• Remove trash and debris from public areas; i.e. pick up litter whenever you see it.
• Be knowledgeable on program topics as well as different delivery methods. Research, prepare and execute engaging, inspiring, accurate and creative programming.
• Monitor location, safety and well being of all participants attending the program.
• Effectively communicate appropriate conservation messages to participants.
• Maintain current knowledge and status of the Zoo’s living collections.
• Attend the San Antonio Zoo’s orientation and animal handling training as required.
• Become proficient in animal handling and present animals in accordance with established protocol.
• Responsible for program material set-up and clean up (e.g. craft supplies, food items).
• Submit a written program curriculum to the Education Supervisor one week prior to the program.
• Adhere to all policies set forth by the San Antonio Zoo.
• Enforce all San Antonio Zoo restrictions and limitations.
• Be flexible and positive in handling last minute changes in program agenda.
• Any and all other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Strong communication skills. Ability to express oneself clearly and concisely.
• Ability to relate effectively and engagingly with the public, especially very young children and older adults.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Knowledge and experience in conservation education or science is preferred.
• Strong desire to work with people.
• Ability to speak and understand Spanish helpful.
• Computer literate and able to become familiar with ARKS and MedARKS.
• Able to perform full range of veterinary nursing skills.
• Sufficient strength, agility and coordination to net, capture, and/or restrain animals of extreme size, strength, and agility.
• Sufficient delicacy to handle, examine, and move; without harming; sick, injured, and/or struggling small (often neonatal) animals.
• Sufficient field of vision and audio acuity to be aware of animals or vehicles that may be approaching from the rear.
• Ability to safely operate light motor vehicles.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• At least two years of college coursework in life sciences, zoology, education, or environmental interpretation or equivalent experience..
• Basic knowledge of biology, zoology, and the ability to organize, plan, collaborate and implement educational presentations.
• Experience leading group programs e.g. camp, scouts, and children’s programs.
• Ability to work weekends, holidays, and after hours assignments.

Qualified candidates desiring consideration for this position should submit an application or resume to

San Antonio Zoo
Attn: Human Resources Dept/Educator Opening
3903 N. St. Mary's Street
San Antonio, TX 78212
(210) 734-7291 Fax

 

Download the Zoo's Employment Application (PDF)

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