Educator, Education Administration

Maryland Zoo is an EEO Employer - M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status

General Summary

The Educator is part of the Conservation Education Department of the Maryland Zoo. They are responsible for developing and delivering engaging educational programs for diverse audiences, both in person and virtually. This position creates meaningful experiences that inspire conservation action and align directly with the mission of The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore. The Educator maintains appropriate animal handling skills for program delivery and ensures all presentations are effective, inclusive, and aligned with Zoo values in conservation, sustainability, education, and Diversity, Equity, Accessibility,and Inclusion (DEAI).

Additionally, the Educator will support the Zoo's missionto save wildlife and protect wild places and contribute to its environmental,social, governance sustainability, conservation, education, and DEAI goals.

This position includes regularly scheduled weekend and weekday duties, as well as limited supervisory responsibilities in the absenceof a manager.

Essential Functions

Program Delivery and Development

• Present educational programs using biofacts,artifacts, live animals, and hands-on activities for audiences of all ages,both on-grounds and off-site, in person and virtually.
• Support the development and enhancement of education program content for a variety of audiences including children, families,adults, and individuals with special needs.
• Collaborate with other Zoo departments to design and deliver educational content for Zoo events and special programs.
• Manage all aspects of program delivery, including set-up, presentation, and clean-up.
• Maintain competency with technology such as microphones, cameras, webinar platforms, tablets, and related presentation tools.
• Maintain appropriate animal handling level andfirst-aid certification per Zoo Animal Handling Guidelines.
• Assist with program administration, recordkeeping, and materials management.
• Support and provide guidance to Zoo volunteers;supervise as needed in the absence of a manager.
• Regularly deliver educational programming for 4-6hours per day, including weekends.
• Ensure all programs are engaging, safe, and mission-driven.

Communication and Collaboration

• Communicate professionally and effectively with participants, Zoo staff, and volunteers.
• Participate in ongoing professional development toenhance content knowledge, teaching techniques, and conservation communication skills.
• Work collaboratively with the Zoo's marketing department to promote programs and educational initiatives.
• Build and maintain professional connections with peer organizations to remain current on trends in informal science and conservation education.
• Deliver outstanding customer service to all Zoo guestsand partners.

Leadership and Resource Management

• Serve as the acting education manager as needed.
• Support the management of education resources andsupplies.
• Demonstrate teamwork and collaboration across Zoo departments.

Minimum Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Environmental Science,Education, or a related field required.

Salary

• Salary isbased on education and years of relevant experience.

Experience/Training

• Teaching and/or public speaking experience required.
• Curriculum development experience in informal education preferred.
• Animal handling experience preferred (training provided).
• Proficiency with Google and Microsoft Office programs.
• STEM background preferred.

Desirable Traits

• Strong oral communication and presentation skills.
• Self-motivated, organized, and detail-oriented.
• Passionate about conservation and education.

Equipment

• Must be able to operate various equipment including computer, telephone, scanner, copier, two-way radio, golf cart, vehicle, handtools, and program-related materials.

Working Conditions

• Standing (up to 8 hours per day), walking (up to 6hours per day), and sitting (up to 8 hours per day).
• Ability to walk large areas of the Zoo as needed.
• Must be able to exert up to 50 pounds of force tolift, push, pull, carry, or otherwise move objects.
• Ability to use all senses to monitor animal health and behavior.
• Must be able to work for extended periods in outdoor environments throughout all seasons and weather conditions, including heat,humidity, cold, rain, and snow.
• Regular contact with plants and animals, with potential exposure to bites, stings, and scrapes.
• Ability to travel locally and within the state asneeded.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, evenings, holidays, and special events.
• Ability to safely operate a golf cart and vans with appropriate license.
• Must successfully pass a background check and maintaina clean driving record.

Benefits

• We offer an excellent benefits package including 24days of Paid Time Off (PTO), Sick and Safe Leave, and 2 paid holidays.
• Eligible for medical, dental, vision, short- andlong-term disability and life insurance.
• 401(k) with employer match.

Disclaimer

The statements above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by…