Education and Conservation Manager

Reports To: Assistant General Curator 

Department: Administrative

Salary: $20-$22

Job Status: Full Time, Non-Exempt 

Union Status: Non-Union 

Position Scope: The Education and Conservation Manager is ultimately responsible for all aspects of the operation of the Zoo’s Education Department and Beaversprite, including but not limited to programs, personnel, facilities, volunteer training, and animals. The Education and Conservation Manager reports to the Assistant General Curator.

Essential Functions: 

• Developing and implementing a comprehensive education plan.
• Continuous planning, marketing, and implementation of an organized education plan for an education program that includes pre-school through adult-level participants.
• Working with the Public Relations Department when needed to promote and market educational programming and support cooperative partnerships.
• Developing and implementing a comprehensive conservation plan.
• Planning, booking, and facilitating (as needed) Zoomobile programs, off grounds and on-site programs and classes, education booths, daily animal presentations, and Zoo camps.
• Invoicing, depositing funds, and monitoring the finances associated with all educational programs.
• Evaluation of programs, including but not limited to audience satisfaction, cost/benefit analysis, and community needs.
• Tracking attendance at programs both on and off site.
• Completing ARCS surveys for Green Practices, Education, and Research.
• Serve on the Research Committee and act as the zoo’s research project contact alongside the General Curator.
• Hiring, training, and supervision of education personnel including proper animal handling techniques and adherence to protocols. 
• Supervision of docents including developing and supervising Docent and Zoo Crew programs and training.
• Maintenance of education facilities and vehicles on site and at Beaversprite.
• Awareness and maintenance of educational and governmental regulations and standards.
• Assists with collection planning for Ambassador animal collection. Collaborates on protocols, care, training, and welfare assessments for those animals. 
• Addressing and resolving visitor or audience complaints and injuries.
• Researching and/or writing grants, assisting with educational aspects of all grants prepared (as needed).
• Assisting with the planning and implementation of a graphics system throughout the zoo.
• Assist with zoo events on site and at Beaversprite.
• Other duties as requested by the Executive Director or Assistant General Curator.

Requirements:

• Teaching experience, preferably at the elementary and secondary levels, that demonstrates a knowledge of current educational system practices, regulations and resources.
• Working knowledge of computer-based programs (word processing, publishing).

Education / Experience:

• Science background that demonstrates knowledge of biology, zoology or a related natural science field.

Physical Requirements: 

• Proof of a negative TB(Mantou) test (to be done annually).
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds. 

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy: The Utica Zoo provides equal employment opportunities to all current employees and all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, natural origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.