Summary: The Saint Louis Zoo is seeking a team member who thrives when supporting and connecting with people. A detail oriented, system thinker who wants to help connect people to nature-based learning opportunities, that will help inspire our next generation of conservationists. Someone committed to the Zoo’s values, including its Diversity, Equity, Accessibility and Inclusion (“DEAI”) culture. We strive to provide the most inclusive education programs possible and need an empathetic representative to help support families and teens from all backgrounds to access our programs and services. This position reports to the Manager of Learning Experiences and will help support, Zoo Preschool, Zoo ALIVE teen volunteers, and Inclusion.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
- Support all administration needs of Zoo Preschool and Camp Joey
- Support Zoo ALIVE teen volunteer application process and monthly scheduling
- Support Manager of Learning Experiences and Early Childhood and Zoo ALIVE unit administration needs
- Support the needs of preschool, Camp Joey, Zoo ALIVE teens & Inclusion families
- Coordinate and manage documents for entire preschool application and registration process
- Manage detail records to meet DESE childcare licensing requirements
- Complete and submit purchasing paperwork
- Track and maintain teacher records
- Track and order supplies
- Update budget spending spreadsheets
- Work with registrar team on tuition updates and additional related family communication as needed
- Communicate general updates with preschool families
- Maintain financial aid account service and support families in utilizing it
- Work with appropriate departments to keep preschool, Camp Joey and EC website pages updated
- Answer and direct phone calls
- Organize and schedule appointments
- Plan meetings and take detailed minutes
- Assist in the preparation of regularly scheduled reports
- Develop and maintain a filing system
- Maintain contact lists
Qualifications:
Detail oriented problem solver that can manage multiple projects and streamline processes, with excellent organizational, communication, Microsoft and interpersonal skills.
Education:
- High School diploma or equivalent
Job Experience, Skills and Knowledge:
- At least 2 years of experience working as an administrative assistant or in a related position
- Exceptional attention to detail
- Applicant must be able to maintain strict confidentiality
- Candidates must possess a high level of emotional intelligence and patience in working with families needing various levels of support
- Candidates must be innovative, creative and open to trying new ideas and new ways of doing things
- Must be willing to work with teens as they are learning to be independent and provide extra support as needed
- Applicants must be an empathic listener and possess professional communication skills
- Must be prepared to engage in challenging discussions and clearly explain policies that may not be well received by some families.
- Must be able to clearly communicate the mission of Zoo Preschool and talk confidently about all aspects of the program & Camp Joey
- Ability to prioritize and successfully manage multiple activities
- Excellent attention to detail required
- Must embody, the Zoo’s Three Keys (Animals Always, People Matter and Operational Excellence), the Zoo’s CCOIL values of Community, Creativity, Openness, Integrity and Life-Work Balance, and the Zoo’s diversity, inclusion, equity and accessibility culture
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Excellent computer skills required including MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, Zoom
- Must be able to embrace an inclusive mindset and adapt to the ever-changing language of inclusion, when working with families and teens with diverse needs
- Must be able to work independently with direction from supervisor
- Must be a problem-solver and have the ability to remain calm and consistent when dealing with adversity, conflict or issues
- Adaptability to change with little notice
- Willingness to work in an environment with young children
- Ability to work in an open flow work space
- All successful candidates will be required to take a drug test and criminal background check
- COVID vaccinations are required for this position
- The Zoo is dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive culture, so even if you do not meet every requirement of this job posting, we would still encourage you to apply. You may be the best fit for this role, or a different one at the Zoo.