Working Title: Interpret Naturalist 1 - Summer Zoo Camp Instructor
Job Class: Interpretive Naturalist 1
Agency: Minnesota Zoological Garden
Who May Apply : Open to all qualified job seekers
Date Posted : 01/13/2024
Closing Date : Open until filled
Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit : Minnesota Zoological Garden
Division/Unit : Education / Zoo Camp
Work Shift/Work Hours : Varies
Days of Work : Varies
Travel Required : No
Salary Range: $22.61 - $32.71 / hourly
Classified Status : Classified
Bargaining Unit/Union : 218 - Insufficient Work Time/Unrep
FLSA Status : Nonexempt
Telework Eligible : No
Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities (https://mn.gov/mmb/careers/diverse-workforce/people-with-disabilities/connect700/) : Yes
THIS POSTING WILL BE USED TO FILL MULTIPLE POSITIONS
Make a difference in the lives of Minnesotans.
The work you’ll do is more than just a job. Join the talented, engaged and inclusive workforce dedicated to creating a better Minnesota.
The purpose of this position is to assist in the development and implementation of education programs which could include (but are not restricted to) zoo camps, public programs, early childhood, family, adult, and school programs. This position is also responsible for promoting the importance of conservation, and the Minnesota Zoo’s mission of connecting people, animals, and the natural world to save wildlife.
Job duties include, but are not limited to:
Present established education programs in a professional, high-quality manner according to the appropriate curricula and established lesson plans
Assist in the development, implementation, and evaluation of education programs as needed ensuring that education programs are of the highest quality and convey conservation, ecological, and natural history information in an effective, fun, and engaging way.
Integrate conservation messages into all education programming and experiences so participants can act on behalf of wildlife.
Perform other duties as assigned to ensure the smooth functioning of the department and maintain the reputation of the organization as a viable business partner.
Minimum Qualifications
Positions are part-time seasonal with anticipated season dates of May to August.
A Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Zoology, Ecology, Wildlife Management, Natural Interpretation, Education, or closely related AND one (1) year experience developing and/or implementing environmental/nature, socio-cultural, historical, or closely related programs at a zoo, nature center, or aquarium
OR
One (1) year experience as a teacher in a formal educational setting.
In addition:
Demonstrated knowledge of and proven experience in environmental, experiential and/or outdoor learning theory and methodology
Demonstrated commitment to and experience working with culturally, ethnically, and linguistically diverse communities and/or organizations sufficient to maintain a work environment that respects and values differences and diversity.
Oral communication skills sufficient to present information on environmental and cultural values, facts, and theories in a clear and understandable manner to diverse individuals and groups.
Writing skills sufficient to develop materials, compile reports and write interesting and educational news releases.
Advanced human relations skills.
Ability/willingness to work as part of a team with changing assignments.
Understanding of interpretive techniques including the ability to assess audiences and the effectiveness of interpretive media.
Computer skills, i.e. MS Office: WORD, EXCEL, PowerPoint, etc.
Preferred Qualifications
Fluent in a language in addition to English such as Spanish, Hmong, ASL, etc.
Prior experience conducting interpretive programs in Minnesota Zoo.
Knowledge of Zoo resources, operational services, philosophy, objectives, and guidelines.
Illustration/photography/visual presentation skills.
Physical Requirements
Ability to stand for long periods of time and walk long distances on uneven terrain.
Ability to carry and use two-way portable radios to communicate with all zoo staff.
Flexible availability including weekdays, evenings, and holidays.
Additional Requirements
Employment verification checks, criminal background checks including fingerprints, and driver‘s license check
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Minnesota State Colleges and Universities is an Equal Opportunity employer/educator committed to the principles of diversity. We prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or membership in a local commission as defined by law. As an affirmative action employer, we actively seek and encourage applications from women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and individuals with protected veteran status.
Reasonable accommodations will be made to all qualified applicants with disabilities. If you are an individual with a disability who needs assistance or cannot access the online job application system, please contact the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email [email protected] . Please indicate what assistance is needed.