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 the 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:

• Commitment to the schedule from May 21st to September 2nd.
• 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 management, and multitasking skills.
• Ability to work independently while contributing positively to a team environment.
• Valid, current driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• Must successfully pass a background check.

Education / Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences, Conservation Biology, Environmental Education, Interpretation, or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.
• Experience working with early childhood, K–12 students, and/or adult learners.
• Experience in informal education settings (zoos, nature centers, museums, camps) strongly preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift 50 lbs. and participate in physical activities required of the position.
• Ability to sit and stand for up to two hours at a time.