Facility
Birmingham Zoo, Inc.
Closing Date
[jobclosingdate]
Description
SUMMARY
This position begins as primarily a Seasonal Zoo Educator who is responsible for developing, implementing and evaluating age-appropriate curricula and lesson designs for all aspects of educational programming on zoo grounds and during outreaches. In the end of May, this position transitions to a Zoo Camp Instructor. Zoo Camp Teachers will ensure that the materials, supplies, crafts, and activities are prepared for each day, and are responsible for keeping their classroom area clean and orderly. Teachers are responsible for instructing the campers in the material developed for camp and for the campers’ safety.
SUMMER CAMP PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
Around 1,000 children ages 4K to 12th grade attend full-day (8:30 am to 3:30 pm) Summer Zoo Camp at the Birmingham Zoo. Children participate in themed educational activities in the classroom and out on Zoo grounds. Zoo Camp at the Birmingham Zoo is educational and encourage active learning through games, crafts, age-appropriate explorations, and special encounters. Rich in STEM-based experiences, Zoo Camp engages the natural curiosity of children and young adults and allow ample time to practice emerging science skills.
DUTIES INCLUDE
Plans and implements a program of instruction that adheres to the Zoo’s mission, philosophy, goals and objectives. Able to write and/or follow curriculum for all educational programs.
Makes purposeful and appropriate lesson plans that provide for effective teaching strategies and maximizes time on task.
Plans and implements a program of study designed to meet individual needs of students. Creates an environment conducive to learning by employing a variety of appropriate teaching strategies.
Works and collaborates with other Education staff in preparation and implementation of Zoo education programs.
Collaborates with school-based teachers to provide professional development, curriculum materials and activities to supplement their curriculum.
Follows check-in, check-out and safety policies of camp for campers.
Develops, in accordance with Zoo Camp guidelines, reasonable rules of camp classroom behavior and appropriate techniques that are consistently applied.
Takes necessary and reasonable precautions to protect campers, equipment, materials and facilities.
Encourage student enthusiasm for the learning process and the development of good learning habits.
Other duties as assigned
Education and Pre-requisites
QUALIFICATIONS
Must have teaching philosophy and experience aligned with interdisciplinary teaching, outdoor/environmental education, problem-based learning, and child development.
Preferred teaching background in science education.
Must be goal-oriented, highly motivated, able to multi-task and collaborate with others.
Excellent leadership, organizational, interpersonal oral and written communication skills; must be proficient with technology.
A significant amount of time will be spent outdoors; exposure to the elements can be expected.
Must have a valid driver’s license.
Must have the ability to work successfully as part of a team.
Must be a positive ambassador for the Birmingham Zoo.
Compensation and benefits
Not specified.
Application instructions
Please apply on our website: www.birminghamzoo.com, About Us, Employment.