Job description

Date Posted
December 1, 2022
Type
Seasonal

Job Details
Status: Nonexempt
Reports to: Education Manager
The Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines, Iowa is a non-profit organization and home to more than 2,800 animals representing nearly 240 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish, and is fully accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
Position Purpose
The primary responsibility of a Seasonal Educator is to interpret education programs to audiences of all ages and sizes both at the Zoo and across the state of Iowa. Seasonal Educators will promote the Zoo’s mission, goals and objectives; create a positive learning experience for people of all ages. This is a 6-9 month seasonal position. Employees must be available to work a flexible schedule including early mornings, late evenings and weekends. Preferred candidates can start, at least part-time, in February.
Essential Functions
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

• Lead education programming for groups and guests at the Zoo
• Independently travel statewide conducting education programs – this includes public speaking to large and small groups, handling a variety of small animals and driving long distances
• Conduct weekly routine maintenance of Zoo vehicles
• Conduct daily/weekly sanitation protocols for programming materials
• Utilize developmentally appropriate practices that inspire conservation action
• Gain in-depth knowledge of materials available for programming including, but not limited to: Ambassador Animals, animal artifacts, zoo exhibits, staff and other zoo resources
• Learn animal handling procedures
• Work with and supervise volunteers

Requirements
Competencies

• Resourceful – Understanding of or can research all applicable topics as they relate to modern zoological management, operations of an attraction and customer service.
• Flexible – Ability to handle a flexible workload with a variety of assignments while also maintain composure in an environment that can be stressful.
• Independent – Must be able to operate independently, exercise initiative and demonstrate capacity for detail and follow-up.
• Positive – Must be a positive, effective team member and be able to establish professional working relationships.
• Communicator – Communicates clearly, both verbal and written. Effective listening skills.
• Critical Thinker – Ability to make decisions while under pressure or solve complex problems that arise daily.
• Innovative – Ability to propose solutions to areas of concern.
• Efficient – Ability to complete task in a thorough but quick manner.
• Customer-oriented – Always exercises professional customer service skills. Interacts with m many different types of people and situations.
• Team Player – Collaborates with supervisors and team to achieve common goals.

Supervisory/Management Responsibilities
None
Work Environment
While performing the duties of the job, the incumbent is required to work both indoors and outdoors with exposure to seasonal weather conditions. The incumbent will be required to spend large amounts of time driving alone.
Physical Requirements
The physical requirements described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to successfully perform the essential functions.
Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles and the like.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Moving self in different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments including tight and confined spaces.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Remaining in a stationary position, often standing or sitting for prolonged periods.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Moving about to accomplish tasks or moving from one worksite to another.
Never Occasionally Constantly
Adjusting or moving objects up to 25 pounds in all directions.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Communicating with others to exchange information.

• *Never Occasionally Constantly

Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers.

• *Never Occasionally Constantly

Operating machinery and/or power tools.

• *Never Occasionally Constantly

Operating motor vehicles or heavy equipment.

• *Never Occasionally Constantly

Assessing the accuracy, neatness and thoroughness of the work assigned.

• *Never Occasionally Constantly

Driving.

• *Never Occasionally Constantly

Stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling –
Never Occasionally Constantly

Reaching with hands and arms.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Tasting or smelling.
Never Occasionally Constantly
Vision
Close vision; Distant vision; Color vision; Peripheral vision; Depth perception; Ability to adjust focus

Lifting Requirement.
> than 50 pounds Up to 50 pounds Up to 40 pounds Up to 25 pounds Up to 10 pounds
Required education and experience

• High school diploma or GED. Preferred candidates will be working towards a degree in education, environmental interpretation, animal ecology, biology, zoology or related field.
• Experience in informal education settings or a strong desire to teach people of all ages.
• Willingness to learn new information. Knowledge of the principles of zoology is a plus.

Additional eligibility requirements

• Must be 18 years or older.
• Must be able to pass a background check.
• Ability to work with animals used in education programs including snakes, birds and invertebrates.
• Ability to provide own housing – Blank Park Zoo does not provide housing.
• Must be able to maintain work hours that will serve the needs of the Blank Park Zoo
• Must be able to maintain calm and act professionally in all situations such as emergencies and guest interactions.

Licenses/Certifications

• Valid motor vehicle license
• Able to provide proof of current vehicle insurance

Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Contact Information
To Apply
Complete the Blank Park Zoo online application and attach cover letter and resume at the link below.

Job Type: Temporary

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