Elementary-Age Programs Specialist

The Zoological Society of Milwaukee (ZSM) is seeking an Elementary-Age Programs Specialist, to join a fun and talented team of professionals in supporting one of the most cherished community assets – the Milwaukee County Zoo. This position teaches educational programming offerings within Conservation Education, providing support to both school and seasonal enrichment curriculum development and teaching. This role works closely with the Elementary-Age Programs Coordinator in support of ZSM's mission to educate people about the importance of wildlife and animals and support the Milwaukee County Zoo, and the Conservation Education department’s vision to inspire and empower all members of our community to take conservation action.

This is a full-time position eligible for a competitive benefits package, including health insurance, complimentary dental, vision, life, STD and LTD coverage, 401k with up to a 5% match, PTO, paid holidays, and a complimentary Zoo Pass, up to the Household level.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Serve as educator for school and seasonal public programs; write new and/or improve existing curricula, plan and set-up classroom spaces, implement programming and engage with members of the public.
  
  
  
  • Communicate with and train other educators who assist in teaching, writing or supporting elementary-age programming.
  
  
  • Develop developmentally appropriate curricula with the whole child in mind—incorporating different strategies and skill sets, such as Social-Emotional Learning, mindfulness techniques, STEAM, culturally-relevant practices, and/or conservation education.
  
  
  
  


• Provide support to the ordering, distribution, and upkeep of program supplies/materials and support budget processes as needed for various programs.


• Employ strong customer service and interpersonal skills to connect to and relate with a variety of participants, family members, and volunteers, ranging in age and diversity.


• Provide assistance to additional programs, processes, and teaching opportunities in order to support the education department and staff, as needed.


• Support registration processes through knowledge of ZSM’s CRM system, Tessitura.


• Participate in training, including animal handling training, to ensure a safe and engaging Zoo education experience for participants.


• Attend staff department meetings and contribute ideas for improvements, changes and new program ideas in relation to the Conservation Education Department and ZSM’s mission.


• Represent ZSM and the Education Department on Zoo grounds, community events, and with partner organizations.


• Facilitate and support positive internal communications and organizational culture.
  

QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in education (formal, informal, environmental, etc.) or related field (e.g., conservation, wildlife biology, zoology, etc.) plus one year of experience teaching youth in an informal or formal education setting, or the equivalent combination of education and experience.


• Proven experience writing environmental education and/or STEAM curriculum a plus.


• Proven ability to work independently and in teams.


• Demonstration of excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills; Spanish or second language fluency beneficial.


• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; proficiency in additional collaboration platforms, CRMs (experience with Tessitura a plus), and comfort learning new digital tools preferred.


• Possession of a valid driver’s license, personal vehicle and adequate car insurance with the ability to travel to program sites, meetings and professional opportunities.


• Ability to become CPR/1st Aid certified within 6 months of employment; biennial recertification required.


• Ability to work flexible hours, including 2-3 weekend days per month.
  

The Zoological Society of Milwaukee and Milwaukee County Zoo have adopted a joint strategic plan, committing to a shared vision and mission. As part of that strategic plan, we believe our Zoo can be a thriving public space for all the diverse communities who make our region great. We bring people together around the issues they care about most, while continuing to be a zoo for all by intentionally creating an inclusive culture that welcomes and celebrates the full diversity of our community. 

We apply values of Accountability, Inclusion, Innovation, Collaboration, Empathy, Fun and Respect to policies, procedures, practices and systems that shape our daily work culture.

We believe that our Zoo coalition, our animals, and our community stand to benefit when our people are fulfilled in their day-to-day roles and have the opportunity to continue growing and developing as professionals and contributors to our mission, vision, and values. We value our team members for who they are and commit to treating all people with respect and dignity all the time. We believe being a zoo for all is integral to our work in care and conservation.

The Society provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

The Zoological Society of Milwaukee is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in all its services. If you need accommodation in the application or interview process, please contact our Human Resources department at [email protected].