Blank Park Zoo
Blank Park Zoo

Open Daily, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
$20 adults, $15 children
 

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Open Daily, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
$20 adults, $15 children
 

View All Rates ›
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Seasonal Educator

Date Posted
January 7, 2025
Type
Seasonal

Job Details

Job Title: Seasonal Educator
FLSA Classification: Nonexempt
Salary Grade: To Be Determined
Reports to: Education Manager
Department: Engagement

Position Purpose

The primary responsibility of a Seasonal Educator is to interpret education programs to audiences of all ages and sizes both at the Zoo and across the state of Iowa. Seasonal Educators will promote the Zoo’s mission, goals and objectives; and create a positive learning experience for people of all ages. This is a 6-9 month seasonal position. Employees must be available to work a flexible schedule including early mornings, late evenings and weekends. Preferred candidates can start in February.

Essential Functions

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

  • Lead education programming for groups and guests at the Zoo
  • Independently travel statewide conducting education programs – this includes public speaking to large and small groups, handling a variety of small animals and driving long distances
  • Conduct weekly routine maintenance of Zoo vehicles
  • Conduct daily/weekly sanitation protocols for programming materials
  • Utilize developmentally appropriate practices that inspire conservation action
  • Gain in-depth knowledge of materials available for programming including, but not limited to: Ambassador Animals, animal artifacts, zoo exhibits, staff and other zoo resources
  • Learn animal handling procedures
  • Work with and supervise volunteers

Competencies

  • Resourceful – Understanding of or can research all applicable topics related to modern zoological management, operations of an attraction and customer service.
  • Flexible – Ability to handle a flexible workload with a variety of assignments while also maintaining composure in an environment that can be stressful.
  • Independent – Must be able to operate independently, exercise initiative and demonstrate capacity for detail and follow-up.
  • Positive – Must be a positive, effective team member and be able to establish professional working relationships.
  • Communicator – Communicates clearly, both verbal and written. Effective listening skills.
  • Critical Thinker – Ability to make decisions while under pressure or solve complex problems that arise daily.
  • Innovative – Ability to propose solutions to areas of concern.
  • Efficient – Ability to complete tasks in a thorough but quick manner.
  • Customer-oriented – Always exercises professional customer service skills. Interacts with m many different types of people and situations.
  • Team Player – Collaborates with supervisors and team to achieve common goals.

Supervisory/Management Responsibilities

 None

Work Environment

While performing the duties of the job, the incumbent is required to work both indoors and outdoors with exposure to seasonal weather conditions. The incumbent will be required to spend large amounts of time driving alone.

Requirements

Physical Requirements

The physical requirements described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to successfully perform the essential functions. 

Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles and the like.
☐ Never          ☒ Occasionally         ☐ Constantly   

Moving self in different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments including tight and confined spaces.
☐ Never          ☒ Occasionally         ☐ Constantly

Remaining in a stationary position, often standing or sitting for prolonged periods.
☐ Never          ☐ Occasionally         ☒ Constantly

Moving about to accomplish tasks or moving from one worksite to another.
☐ Never          ☐ Occasionally         ☒ Constantly

Adjusting or moving objects up to 25 pounds in all directions.
☐ Never          ☐ Occasionally          ☒ Constantly

Communicating with others to exchange information.
☐ Never          ☐ Occasionally         ☒ Constantly

Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers.
☐ Never          ☒ Occasionally          ☐ Constantly

Operating machinery and/or power tools.
☒ Never         ☐ Occasionally          ☐ Constantly

Operating motor vehicles or heavy equipment.
☐ Never         ☐ Occasionally          ☒ Constantly

Assessing the accuracy, neatness and thoroughness of the work assigned.
☐ Never        ☐ Occasionally          ☒ Constantly

Driving.
☐ Never        ☐ Occasionally           ☒ Constantly

Stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling –
☐ Never         ☐ Occasionally          ☒ Constantly

Reaching with hands and arms.
☐ Never          ☐ Occasionally         ☒ Constantly

Tasting or smelling.
☐ Never         ☒ Occasionally         ☐ Constantly
 

Vision
☒ Close vision;  ☒Distant vision;  ☒ Color vision;  ☒ Peripheral vision;  ☒Depth perception;  ☒ Ability to adjust focus

Lifting Requirement.
☐ > than 50 pounds       ☒ Up to 50 pounds        ☐ Up to 40 pounds        ☐ Up to 25 pounds        ☐ Up to 10 pounds

Required education and experience

  • High school diploma or GED. Preferred candidates will be working towards a degree in education, environmental interpretation, animal ecology, theatre, or related field.
  • Experience in informal education settings is preferred
  • Willingness to learn new information. Knowledge of the principles of zoology is a plus.

Additional eligibility requirements

  • Must be 19 years or older.
  • Must be able to pass a background check.
  • Ability to work with animals used in education programs including snakes, birds and invertebrates.
  • Must be able to maintain work hours that will serve the needs of the Blank Park Zoo
  • Must be able to maintain calm and act professionally in all situations such as emergencies and guest interactions.

Licenses/Certifications

  • Valid motor vehicle license
  • Able to provide proof of current vehicle insurance

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Affirmative Action/EEO Statement

Blank Park Zoo is an equal opportunity employer and gives employment and promotional consideration without regard to race, color, sex, religion, age, disability, disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam era, and any other protected class as required by local, state, or federal law. We seek applicants for employment who are dedicated, hardworking, and seek fulfilling employment. In return, Blank Park Zoo offers competitive income, benefits, and an excellent working environment.

Contact Information

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