Adjunct Conservation Educator, Central Park Zoo

Job Title: Adjunct Conservation Educator
Location: Central Park Zoo
Department: CPZ EDUCATION
Reports to: Manager of Education
Rate: $23.00 per hour
Schedule: This is a year-round position with seasonal schedule variations:
Fall, winter, spring: September – May 26th
up to 25 hours/week, Thursday - Friday, 8:00 AM–1:00 PM; Saturday-Sunday, 9:00 am- 5:00 pm
Summer: May 27 – August 30th
up to 39 hours/week. Monday – Friday, 8:00 am-4:00 pm
Who We Are:
The Wildlife Conservation Society envisions a world where wildlife thrives in healthy lands and seas, valued by societies that embrace and benefit from the diversity and integrity of life on earth. We actively save wildlife and wild places worldwide through science, conservation action, education, and inspiring people to value nature.
The WCS Education Department works across our five 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 look for future team members who share that same value.
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, reporting to work on-site at the Central Park Zoo. Working under the supervision of the Manager of Education and full-time staff, you will assist with birthday party preparation 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 lead engaging educational programs for school groups, families and children with diverse interests, abilities and backgrounds.
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:
Help prepare and carry out all the birthday party components, including communication with families and Zoo staff, party setup and party activities in classroom and in the Zoo
Assist with general maintenance and upkeep of party areas and supplies, and clean-up after each party
Facilitate fun, engaging parties and programs, including dynamic games and interactive animal experiences in the classroom and in the Zoo.
Confidently guide and manage larger program groups as you move through the Zoo
Inspire guests from diverse cultural backgrounds with a love of wildlife
Maintain a friendly and professional demeanor while at work and during programming
Follow and enforce birthday party and Zoo policies and procedures
Attend and participate in staff meetings
Utilize strong communication with education staff, other departments, and program participants
Assist with other education programs and events as needed, including school programs, children’s programs, and adult programs.
Train in the proper handling and presentation protocols of the Central Park Zoo’s tractable animal collection.
Qualification Requirements
Qualifications:
High school diploma or equivalency
Must be able to work weekends
At least one year of experience working in customer service or education field
Prior experience working with children
Ability to stand and walk for long periods of time
Excellent verbal communication skills to help interpret science concepts in a classroom, party, and outdoor setting
Ability to lift and carry up to 25lbs
Interest in wildlife or conservation
Bilingual/Spanish speaker is a plus
Research shows that women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds often s 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.
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
Salary Range
$23/hr