Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, award-winning Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle is famed for pioneering naturalistic exhibits and setting a standard for zoos all over the world. The zoo is helping to save endangered species in Washington State and around the world. By inspiring visitors and others to learn, care and act, Woodland Park Zoo is making a difference in our planet’s future.

This is your opportunity to join the dynamic Education team at Woodland Park Zoo. Applications are now being accepted for Youth Programs Instructor in the Youth Programs department. There is one part-time, temporary, non-benefited position to be filled at this time. The pay rate is $13.00 per hour.

This position will lead engaging afterschool and summer programs at local middle schools and at the zoo thought the ZooCrew program. The ZooCrew program model is founded on the idea that every student should have equal opportunities to become empowered conservation leaders in their community and society. Our model uses a three-tiered educational approach (discover, create, share) to support youth engagement in problem solving around environmental themes that lead to meaningful conservation action. We are looking for a dynamic educator who can bring science learning and conservation activities to life for middle school participants and has experience working directly with diverse youth populations. The position involves working with other program staff on curriculum and activity development, as well as supporting related events for participants both at the zoo and in the community. The youth programs instructor will also collaborate with school and community partners to recruit students for the program and best meet needs of individual participants.

The ideal candidate will be able to work part time from September through May and full time for seven weeks during the summer season.

SUMMARY

Present engaging programs, experiences and activities to program participants, on and/or off zoo grounds.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Present engaging programs and experiences utilizing developmentally appropriate practices that inspire conservation action.
• Lead safe and educational experiences for participants involving hands-on, inquiry-based activities and/or research projects in a variety of field conditions, on and/or off zoo grounds depending on position.
• Lead tours, games and crafts for a variety of ages.
• May handle and present a variety of species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and arthropods (depending on program).
• Organize rooms, props and materials for programs; maintain prop, material and supply inventories
• Mentor interns and volunteers.
• Prepare and submit statistics and receipts to supervisory staff.
• Assist with program development, evaluation and revision.
• Operate audio/visual equipment for programming as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.