Seasonal Education and Outreach Specialist
12 days ago
Utica
Job DescriptionDescription: Position Scope: The Seasonal Education and Outreach Specialist is a dynamic educator and conservation ambassador responsible for delivering high-impact, mission-driven programming that inspires environmental stewardship across diverse audiences. This position plays a key role in advancing the Zoo’s Education & Conservation initiatives through engaging, standards-aligned outreach experiences both on-site and throughout New York State. The Specialist must be adaptable, audience-focused, and confident in presenting live ambassador animals while upholding the highest standards of animal welfare, safety, and professionalism. The successful candidate will demonstrate expertise in inquiry-based learning, conservation messaging, and positive reinforcement training techniques, while collaborating cross-departmentally to support Zoo operations and strategic goals. The “on” season runs from early April through late September; the “off” season runs from early October through early April. Essential Functions: Education & Program Delivery • Facilitate dynamic outreach and on-site programs using the Zoo’s ambassador animal collection and biofacts., • Continuously assess audience engagement and adapt delivery style, pacing, and content to ensure programming is developmentally appropriate, inclusive, and impactful., • Present conservation-focused messaging that connects audiences to real-world environmental issues, threats, and solutions., • Lead interactive experiences, including camps, school programs, public presentations, special events, and community outreach initiatives., • Serve as a professional representative of the Zoo at schools, community events, libraries, and partner organizations., • Support interpretation efforts across the zoo grounds as needed. Curriculum Development & Educational Design • Collaborate with the Education team to design, refine, and evaluate high-quality, inquiry-based environmental education curriculum., • Develop lesson plans aligned with NYS Learning Standards and Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)., • Create structured schedules, hands-on activities, crafts, multimedia presentations, and assessment tools to support program objectives., • Contribute creative ideas for new programs, seasonal offerings, and conservation campaigns., • Maintain organized program materials and assist in inventory management of educational supplies and biofacts. Animal Handling & Welfare • Maintain Utica Zoo Animal Handling Certification and strictly adhere to established animal handling, transportation, presentation, and safety protocols., • Demonstrate knowledge of positive reinforcement training techniques and choice-and-control principles., • Prepare animals and materials for programs while ensuring their safety, health, and well-being., • Collaborate with Animal Care staff to ensure seamless coordination of animal ambassador scheduling and care., • Accurately complete required animal usage, transport, and incident documentation. Program Evaluation & Impact Measurement • Assist in implementing evaluation strategies to assess program effectiveness using quantitative and qualitative methods., • Collect participant feedback and contribute to reporting metrics related to educational reach and conservation impact., • Participate in continuous improvement processes to enhance program quality and engagement outcomes. Operations & Logistics • Safely and independently drive long distances within New York State to conduct outreach programs., • Maintain outreach vehicles, transport carriers, and program equipment in clean and organized condition., • Support setup, breakdown, and logistical coordination for events and special programming., • Assist with cross-departmental initiatives and special projects as assigned. Professional Conduct & Team Collaboration • Maintain a positive, inclusive, and respectful environment for participants, colleagues, and volunteers., • Model professionalism, adaptability, and strong communication skills in all interactions., • Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities., • Serve as a collaborative and supportive member of both the Education and Animal Ambassador teams., • Perform other duties as assigned to support departmental and organizational goals.Requirements: Requirements: • Commitment to the schedule from May 21st to September 2nd., • Comfort working in proximity to wild and domestic animals in a zoological setting., • Experience handling, training, or working with animals., • Experience developing and implementing curriculum., • Strong public speaking and interpersonal communication skills., • Demonstrated ability to work with diverse audiences across ages and learning levels., • Familiarity with Social-Emotional Learning, Next Generation Science Standards, and New York State learning standards., • Excellent organizational, time management, and multitasking skills., • Ability to work independently while contributing positively to a team environment., • Valid, current driver’s license with a clean driving record., • Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences, Conservation Biology, Environmental Education, Interpretation, or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered., • Experience working with early childhood, K–12 students, and/or adult learners., • Ability to lift 50 lbs. and participate in physical activities required of the position., • Ability to sit and stand for up to two hours at a time.