Assistant Education Supervisor
Description
JOB SUMMARY
Assist education department leadership with the coordination, implementation, and development of mission-driven programs. Primary program responsibilities will include in-park interpretation, volunteer ambassadors, and youth programs. Assist with developing and refining learning objectives and conservation behavior outcomes for various audiences, including school-age children, youth, families, and Dallas Zoo visitors. Provide support to education department team members and programs such as seasonal camps and youth volunteer programs.
SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Assist with coordination and expansion of education programs; primary program responsibilities include in-park interpretation, volunteer ambassadors, and youth programs.
• Provide conservation interpreters with training and coaching in interpretive techniques. Support team members’ professional growth and reinforce departmental culture.
• In collaboration with the Volunteer Services department, continually grow and improve the volunteer ambassador program. Create opportunities for volunteer professional development, assist with coaching and mentoring of volunteers, and provide formal training. Maintain volunteer records, databases, policies, and manuals. Participate in recruitment, interviewing and selection of volunteers as needed.
• Assist in the department's daily operations, including overseeing the scheduled team, providing relevant and timely communications, submitting work orders, and act as an emergency leader for the department.
• Act as a key point of contact for education program participants, including answering participant and parent questions and resolving problems that arise. Maintain excellent customer relations with all program participants, volunteers, and Dallas Zoo visitors.
• Collect, analyze, and distribute information regarding education programs, learning objectives, and conservation behavior outcomes. Assist with grant applications and data collection.
• Work with Education department leadership to develop program registration and fees. Organize and maintain participant paperwork. Assist with inventorying and purchasing materials.
• Serve as a backup coordinator to oversee implementation and coordination of seasonal camp programs, youth volunteer programs, and other programs as needed.
• Collaborate with various Zoo departments in development of content for events, experiences, and programs.
• Collaborate with other zoo personnel as needed to meet the Dallas Zoo's mission. This can include but is not limited to assisting and participating in media events, public relations projects, and special tours.
• Remain current on conservation issues, interpretive techniques, and conservation psychology.
• Other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
• Bachelor's degree required, preferably in the field of natural sciences or education. Excellent natural history and wildlife conservation knowledge with attention to scientific accuracy is essential.
• Experience working with families and children ages 5 years – 18 years required. Previous work with volunteers is preferred.
• Experience working in a zoo, environmental education center, or camp setting is preferred.
• Excellent presentation and public engagement skills are required.
• Strong knowledge of best practices in interpretation required, National Association for Interpretation (NAI) certificate preferred.
• Competent in current technology used in an educational setting, including interactive technology. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Outlook preferred. Previous experience with Volgistics is preferred.
• Familiarity with curriculum development and learning standards is preferred.
• Experience working with and handling program animals is preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to promote good morale and productivity in the workplace.
• Must be flexible, self-motivated, and a team player. Must be able to establish and maintain an effective rapport with all levels of management, employees, and zoo guests.
• Must be able to follow oral and written instructions.
• Must be able to communicate effectively, professionally, and courteously, both orally and in writing.
• Must have strong time management skills.
• Must have good observational skills.
• Must be able to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above head, pull bend, climb stairs and ladders and carry up to 50lbs.
• Must be able to work holidays and weekends.
• Must be able to actively work in inclement weather.
• Must have a valid driver's license with reliable transportation.
Successful candidates must pass pre-employment drug screening, background check, and TB test.