Learning & Engagement Specialist I

Pay Range: To maintain internal equity, we have identified the starting range for this position at the Oakland Zoo as $21.82 - $24.00 per hour. An offer within this range will be determined by the experience and qualifications of a candidate and will be our best and final compensation offer.

Serves as a frontline facilitator for both formal and informal learning, delivering safe, interactive, high-quality engagement for members of the public of all ages. Helps with the execution of on-site interpretive programming that furthers the mission of the Zoo, informed by best practice as outlined by the National Association for Interpretation. Will primarily serve to engage Zoo visitors in a variety of ways, including but not limited to holding informal interpretive conversations and by running the interactive exploration space known as The Habitarium. Will additionally facilitate scheduled unpaid programming on-site such as Animal Highlight talks, as well as nature journaling, crafting, storytimes, and Zoo trading card sessions. Secondarily, will aid in Learning & Engagement Department paid programming execution, including ZooMobile off-sites as well as ZooSchool and Wildlife Assembly field trip programs.

‍

• Provide support implementing the Zoo’s free, on-grounds programming, including but not limited to:
  • Roving/informal interpretation
  • Animal Highlights
  • Habitarium
  • Pathway Encounters
  • Nature Journaling
  • Crafting sessions
  • Storytimes
  • Trading Card Wednesdays

• Maintain positive attitude and collaborative working relationships with volunteers, coworkers, program participants, and internal and external customers
• Demonstrate superior guest engagement with Zoo guests
• Demonstrate knowledge of and support for the Conservation Society of California’s mission, values, standards, policies, and procedures, operating instructions, confidentiality standards, and codes of behavior, as outlined in the Employee Handbook
• Provide support for other Program Managers within the Learning & Engagement Department on facilitation of additional programming
• Act as department ambassadors in aiding other Zoo entities for occasional special events
• Perform other related duties as required and assigned

• Able to work three to four 6.5/7.5 hour days per week, including one weekend day
• Driver’s License and ability to drive Zoo vehicles
• Commitment to service excellence
• Comfort with “yes, and” principle of improvisation  
• Classroom management skills  
• Knowledge of animals and current conservation issues    
• Deep sense of responsibility for the animals under our care
• Comfort with safely handling ambassador animals such as reptiles, amphibians, and arthropods, and/or willingness to be trained to do so
• The Oakland Zoo requires vaccination*

Bonus if you have:

• College level coursework in biology, zoology, environmental science, animal behavior, and/or education
• 1-2 years’ experience providing science communication/interpretation in zoos, aquariums, museums, science centers, or other similar institutions
• 1-2 years’ background in teaching (formal or informal) and/or experience working with children (camps, tutoring, coaching, etc.)

‍

• Communication – communicates respectfully and effectively with stakeholders across identities, both verbally and in writing
• Dependability – demonstrates trustworthiness and reliability, including while working with little or no direct supervision
• Flexibility – nimbly adapts to evolving priorities and urgent needs; handles intervals of high pressure while maintaining perspective and humor
• Inclusive Culture - fosters a culture of mutual respect, transparency, collaboration and belonging which allows all employees to feel appreciated, included, and valued.
• Organization – strong attention to details and able to build and/or maintain efficient systems
• Passion – wholeheartedly believes in, represents, and models Oakland Zoo’s mission and PRIDE values at all times
• Presentation – able to convey ideas clearly and sensitively, highlight key takeaways and translate impact; have thoughtful presence, can quickly build rapport with others, and are comfortable in front of a variety of audiences  
• Sustainability – oriented toward the mission and values of Oakland Zoo and able to put those into practice by finding creative and resourceful ways to develop sustainable practices within your role and department
• Technological Aptitude – able to quickly understand, develop and maintain functional digital systems
• Time Management – strong capabilities with a demonstrated ability to effectively prioritize multiple commitments
• Wildlife Aware - understands mission to support the conservation and welfare of animals at the Zoo, locally and globally.  This is demonstrated by a willingness/passion to reflect this mission in all actions and to continue to learn how to take action for wildlife

‍