JOB SUMMARY
This is an entry-level position responsible for facilitating mission-driven programming on or off the Dallas Zoo campus. Early Childhood Specialists will actively engage young children and their families through educational programming, including interpretation, enrichment programs, and full-time programs. They must be comfortable interpreting age-appropriate wildlife conservation topics through hands-on methods in a manner relevant to the experiences of young children and their families; connecting with culturally and neurologically diverse audiences; providing attentive and safe care for children; and managing supplies and learning environments. This is a variable hour position with a maximum of 29 hours per week. Availability on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays is required.
SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
* Facilitate engaging, mission-driven experiences to inspire conservation action in young children and their families on behalf of wildlife.
* Assist as a substitute and aide in the Zoo’s Wild Earth Preschool program.
* Reinforce and encourage interest in wildlife and natural environments in age-appropriate, positive engagement with zoo guests and program participants via programming focused on wildlife conservation and nature connections.
* Actively encourage interest in and empathy for wildlife through positive interaction with young children and their families.
* Assist in developing mission-driven programming as assigned;
* Prepare and update records, reports, and surveys. Assist in research projects as necessary;
* Complete yearly training as assigned, including topics relating to developmentally appropriate practice, diversity, classroom management, safety, and content relating to wildlife conservation.
* Perform general maintenance and repair of program environments and supplies: painting, repair of materials, garden maintenance, soil and mulch transfer, etc.
* Interact positively and professionally with Dallas Zoo staff and volunteers in accordance with the Zoo’s “Best Day Ever” guest engagement policy;
* Assist as new hire trainer for volunteers and interns as assigned; Act as a trainer for Early Childhood program new hires as assigned;
* Collaborate with other zoo personnel as needed to meet the Dallas Zoo’s mission. This can include, but is not limited to photographing materials or programs, assisting and participating in media events, special tours, and public relations projects;
* Participate in and support zoo-wide initiatives, committees, and work groups; Understand and support Dallas Zoo’s Strategic and Master Plans and departmental goals;
* Follow all safety protocols and understand the position’s role in emergency procedures, responding to emergencies as required;
* Assist with the beautification of our park by removing trash and debris whenever you see it;
* Assist with and raise awareness for AZA SAFE programs and Dallas Zoo conservation efforts;
* Perform other duties as assigned.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
• A Bachelor’s degree in any field related to interpretation, biology, education, or conservation plus one year of experience with young children required; or an Associate’s degree in any field related to interpretation, biology, education, or conservation plus two years of experience with young children are required;
• Excellent engagement skills with young children and their families required;
• Strong knowledge of developmentally appropriate practice for young children required.
• Excellent natural history and wildlife conservation knowledge with attention to scientific accuracy;
• Must maintain a high level of enthusiasm, energy, and creativity while facilitating programs on a regular basis;
• Must be comfortable working with and handling live animals;
• Must be a flexible, efficient, self-motivated team player, and solution-oriented: finding creative solutions to complex challenges;
• Must be able to establish and maintain an effective rapport with all levels of management, employees, interns, volunteers, and zoo guests;
• Must be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, following instructions and documenting information appropriately;
• Ability to represent the Dallas Zoo in a professional manner at all times;
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in emergency situations and to respond with appropriate action;
• Must be able to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above head, pull bend, climb stairs and ladders and carry up to 50 lbs.;
• Must be able to work holidays and weekends, both regular and irregular hours as required;
• Regular, reliable, and punctual attendance is an essential function of this position;
• Must be able to actively work outdoors in hot, cold, or inclement weather;
• Successful candidates must complete pre-employment drug screening, background check, childcare regulation background check including FBI check, and TB test;
• Must sign and have notarized form 2985, Affidavit for Applicants for Employment with a Licensed Operation.
• Must have a valid driver’s license to operate zoo vehicles and reliable transportation.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by personnel assigned to this job and is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all duties to be assigned.
