Job Title: Adjunct Conservation Educator
Reports To: Manager of Education
Location: Central Park Zoo
Job Type: Part time
Department: CPZ Education
Schedule: Wednesday- Sunday, 8:00-4:00pm (35-40 hrs/wk)
Pay Rate: $23.00 per hour
Who We Are
The WCS Education Department works across our five wildlife parks: Bronx Zoo, Central Park Zoo, Queens Zoo, Prospect Park Zoo, and New York Aquarium. Our mission is to inspire a diverse and inclusive movement of conservation advocates by sparking connection with animals and nature, enhancing scientific literacy through hands-on investigation, and engaging constituents in stewardship and action to conserve wildlife and wild places.
WCS is proud to be an equal opportunity employment workplace dedicated to pursuing and hiring a diverse workforce. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive work and learning environment and looking for future team members who share our values.
The Opportunity:
We are looking for an enthusiastic and committed individual to join the WCS Education Department as an Adjunct Conservation Educator focused on assisting with birthday parties and other education-led programming. This is a unique opportunity to explore program coordination and education at an informal science institution. You will work part-time on-site at the Central Park Zoo. Working under the supervision of the Manager of Education, you will assist with birthday party preparation, coordination and facilitation, while providing quality customer service to families. You will lead fun activities and maintain an engaging environment during our weekend birthday parties while learning and practicing event management. Additionally, you will develop and lead engaging educational programs including school field trips and informal education programs including summer camp.
You have experience leading fun activities with children and adults, an enthusiasm for learning, and an interest in wildlife and/or conservation. You are creative, energetic, dependable, capable of taking initiative, and enjoy working as part of a team. Most importantly, you are committed to fostering a supportive environment for children and adults from all walks of life.
Responsibilities:
September - May
• Assist with preparation and implementation of birthday party components, including communication with families and Zoo staff, party set up and clean up, leading party activities in party room and in the Zoo
• Assist with general upkeep of party areas and maintenance of party supplies
• Facilitate fun, engaging party activities including dynamic games and interactive animal experiences in the party room and in the Zoo.
• Develop and lead informal programs including children, family, Scout and adult programs as well as school break camps and summer camps.
• Lead school field trips such as Outdoor Adventures and our Classroom programs
June-August
• Be a lead Conservation Camp Counselor for weekly sessions of summer camp programs
• Assist with the development and implementation of seasonal Conservation Camp Counselor training
Year-round
• Develop lesson plans and curriculum for informal programs as well as school break and summer camps
• Train in the proper handling and presentation protocols of the Central Park Zoo’s tractable animal collection
• Utilize strong communication with education staff, other departments, and program participants
• Perform all related tasks and duties as assigned.
• Comply with all policies and procedures presented by WCS and the WCS Education Department, including health and safety policies.
Internal Qualification Requirements
Minimum Qualifications
• High School diploma or GED
• Ability to work within a highly team-oriented environment, as well as independently
• Excellent verbal communication skills to help interpret science concepts in classroom settings and at zoo exhibits
• Reliable, flexible and accountable
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 25lbs and spend long periods of time outdoors in all weather conditions
Preferred Qualifications
• Recent college graduate or current graduate student
• One year teaching experience at an informal science institution, including a camp program
• Educational background in ecology, environmental science or education preferred
• Bilingual/Spanish speaker is a plus
Research shows that women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that an applicant meets 100% of the qualifications for a given role. Therefore, if much of this job description describes YOU, then YOU are highly encouraged to apply.
Workplace Environment
● We value team members and community partners from all backgrounds and cultures with different skills, abilities, and perspectives
● We ensure that everyone has an opportunity to fully contribute to our mission.
Benefits and Perks
● We value creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and building a culture where everyone is welcomed and can flourish.
● As PT staff, you will receive access to Central Park Zoo and other WCS parks
WCS is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to hiring and supporting a diverse workforce. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment and look for future team members who share that same value. EOE/AA/M/F/Vets/Disabled
