Zoo Educator - Leading Zoo Patrol

• Plan, prepare, and deliver interactive educational programs and experiences for diverse audiences.
• Lead field trips, workshops, summer camps, and special events focused on conservation themes.
• Develop, adapt, and implement curriculum and lesson plans aligned with Zoo education goals.
• Lead interpretive experiences at zoo habitats, including spontaneous engagement with guests.
• Evaluate and provide feedback on program effectiveness.

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the CDC program, including scheduling and participant tracking.
• Train, mentor, and supervise CDC volunteers, ensuring adherence to Zoo policies and program objectives.
• Assist with program recruitment, orientations, and evaluation of participant progress.
• Coordinate with other Zoo departments to provide hands-on experiences for CDC participants.
• Ensure safety of staff and volunteers on and off grounds.

• Represent the Zoo in educational and community outreach initiatives.
• Collaborate with staff, volunteers, and external partners to enhance program impact.

• Maintain accurate records of program participation, volunteer hours, and educational materials.
• Assist with development and maintenance of educational resources and interpretive signage.
• Responsible for delivering and continuing program and conservation excellence. 
• Ensure program areas and materials are organized, safe, and ready for use.

• Perform other related duties as assigned to support the overall mission of Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo.
• Perform duties in accordance with AZA industry standards and maintain superior institutional practices. 

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in education, Environmental Education, Zoology, Biology, or related field preferred or in process
• Experience working with youth in formal or informal learning settings.
• Strong public speaking, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated passion for wildlife conservation and volunteer development.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed for field trips

• Experience leading or coordinating volunteer programs.
• Knowledge of local and global conservation issues.
• Familiarity with animal husbandry, wildlife care, or zoo operations.

• Must work onsite both indoors and outdoors across varied weather conditions; physical stamina required for extended shifts and training sessions.
• Attendance at public events and off-hours scheduling is required.
• Frequent standing, walking, kneeling, bending, climbing, and reaching.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Visual and auditory acuity sufficient to safely interact with animals and guests.
• Must be able to work weekends, evenings, and holidays as scheduled.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel for off-site programs and conservation work.