Seasonal Education and Outreach Specialist

Utica Zoo

Seasonal Education and Outreach Specialist

Reports To:

Education & Conservation Manager

Department:
Education & Conservation

Salary: $16/hour - paid biweekly

Job Status:
Seasonal Full Time, Non-Exempt, May 21st - September 2nd

Union Status:
Yes

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 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:

* 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…