Group and Family Programs Lead Educator (Full Time)

GROUP & FAMILY PROGRAMS LEAD EDUCATOR (FULL TIME) DEPARTMENT Conservation/Education CLASSIFICATION Non-Exempt REPORTS TO Group & Family Programs Supervisor DIRECT REPORTS N/A STARTING PAY $21 POSITION DESCRIPTION: Under general direction, the Group & Family Programs Lead Educator delivers a variety of programs, including overnights, camps, and family and adult programs, while supervising participants.

This position organizes and maintains all materials associated with the programs, aids with curriculum and program development, and performs administrative and coordination duties related to programs. POSITION DUTIES & ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Duties Percentage Assists Conservation & Education supervisors in the development and enhancement of Group & Family programs, including: Program development.

Curriculum writing. Resource gathering, organization and maintenance. Administrative support, including maintenance of files and records. Program coordination and support. Assisting with parent and participant communication. Working to consistently improve knowledge of science education techniques and content. Observing and providing peer assistance for colleagues, as well as mentoring and supervising program assistants.

Assisting with facilitating and implementing the mission, strategic plan, and core values of the Kansas City Zoo and Aquarium. 60% Delivers various conservation and educational programs, including: Utilizes developed lessons, hands-on activities, night/morning hikes, and games to create a comprehensive experience for program participants.

Responsible for the safety and wellbeing of program participants. Facilitates and supervises overnights with program participants either indoors or outdoors, while effectively communicating with Zoo security staff. Collaborates with Scout Leaders and aids in badge/journey completion. Thinks critically to address challenges, consistently makes decisions that champion safety, integrity, and professionalism in all contexts, without direct oversight.

30% Assists in the promotion of the Zoo & Aquarium’s programs and events. 10% *This position may at times be requested to perform other duties or special projects as assigned, which are in the best interest of the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. *All employees must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily and, upon request, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION

& FORMAL TRAINING: High School diploma or GED, preferred. Course work in education, biological sciences, or related field, desired. EXPERIENCE: 2-3 years professional education or teaching experience required, with previous zoo, aquarium or museum related experience desired. Previous experience coordinating camps, tours and other fee-based programs desired.

Experience managing and/or working with volunteers desired. Knowledge of classroom management techniques and skills using teaching aids, including animals, biofacts, artifacts and library resources, desired. Knowledge of conservation/biological/environmental teaching programs and interpretation. Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office and audio-visual equipment, required.

Strong presentation, verbal, and written communication skills. OTHER MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: Must have valid driver’s license. Can move equipment weighing up to 50 pounds, with or without assistance. Assistance depending upon task. Must be willing to become CPR/First-Aid certified. Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays and overnight/evening hours, in all weather extremes.

Must pass a background and drug screening.