Zoo Education Specialist

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Turtle Back Zoo

Zoo Education Specialist

DEFINITION:

Under the limited supervision of Zoo Curator, the Zoo Education Specialist responsibilities include the husbandry and care of a ambassador animal population and to create, schedule, and present zoo focused educational experiences. These include, but are not limited to animal programming, camps, birthday parties, early childhood programs, overnights, school/scout group presentations, outreaches, special conservation programs and events as well as perform other related duties as required.

NOTE: The examples of work for this title are for illustrative purposes only. A particular position using this title may or may not perform all duties listed in this job specification. Conversely, all duties performed on the job may not be listed.

EXAMPLES OF WORK:

• Researches, develops, promotes, and executes impactful, experiential curricula, programs, and events (including virtual) that follow the institution's education and conservation plan.
• Animal husbandry, including feeding, cleaning and welfare of the ambassador animal population
• Evaluates and updates curricula, programs, and events in a timely manner utilizing appropriate software.
• Models and maintains best animal handling practices.
• Models and maintains zoo policies and protocols.
• Develops content for exhibits, graphics, social media and interpretational signage that promote stewardship in conserving the environment.
• Ability to effectively communicate scientific and conservation messages in a lively and engaging manner to a wide variety of audiences.
• Self-directed, self-motivated, and confident member of the team.
• Assists with scheduling, coordinating, and processing programs and events.
• Assists with departmental data collection and processing (animal reports, program participants, revenue, etc.).
• Develops positive working relationships with staff throughout various Zoo Teams and Departments.
• Assists in the collaboration of external partners and local community to expand educational programming.
• Full proficiency with Microsoft Office and G Suite software.
• Other duties as assigned.

Experience Required

EDUCATION: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree. NOTE: Applicants who do not possess the required education may substitute additional experience in conservation education on a year-for-year basis with thirty (30) semester hour credits being equal to one (1) year of experience. EXPERIENCE: Two (2) years paid experience at an accredited zoo, aquarium or nature center in science/conservation education. Two (2) years paid experience at an accredited zoo, aquarium or nature center in animal husbandry and management of ambassador/program animals. LICENSE: Appointees will be required to possess a driver's license valid in New Jersey only if the operation of a vehicle, rather than employee mobility, is necessary to perform essential duties of the position. KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES: • Ability to assimilate conservation information into engaging and dynamic educational programs. • Acquire and maintain First Aide, CPR and AED certifications. • Acquire and maintain knowledge of New Jersey Education Standards. • Knowledge of general principles of animal husbandry, animal science, and conservation issues. • Knowledge of animal welfare standards. • Knowledge of animal ambassador guidelines and husbandry standards, including enrichment training, assessment of disease and maintaining security of housing. • Knowledge of general records management standards and best practices. • Knowledge of cooperative animal management programs (SSP's, TAG, Studbooks). • Excellent public speaking, organizational, and writing skills. • Ability to learn how to use various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units to maintain essential records and files. • Ability to read, write, speak, understand, and communicate in English sufficiently to perform the duties of this position. American Sign Language or Braille may also be considered as acceptable forms of communication. • Persons with mental or physical disabilities are eligible if they can perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation. If the accommodation cannot be made because it would cause the employer undue hardship, such persons may not be eligible.

How to Apply

To be considered, email resume, cover letter, and 3 references AS A SINGLE DOCUMENT to mhunt@parks.essexcountynj.org. Place ZOO ED SPECIALIST in the Subject line.

Turtle Back Zoo

560 Northfield St

West Orange, NJ 07052

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