Outreach Instructor

The Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is seeking a part-time Outreach Instructor to facilitate educational outreach programs for all ages, both on and off Zoo grounds. Responsibilities include presenting engaging programming, organizing materials, evaluating programs, and working with volunteers. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a background in education or related fields. Flexibility in scheduling is required, and the role involves both indoor and outdoor work.
Job Details

Omaha Zoo - Omaha, NE

Part Time

Education

Outreach Instructor

Job Title: Outreach Instructor

FLSA Status: Non-exempt

Hours: Part-time

Reports To: Outreach Coordinator

About the role:

The Outreach Instructor is a part-time position reporting directly to the Outreach Coordinator & Education Program Manager – Schools. The function of Outreach Instructors is to facilitate outreach programs (both on and off Zoo grounds) and to aid in development of education programs. Instructors will promote the Zoo’s mission, goals, and objectives while creating a positive learning experience for children and adults.

Duties and Responsibilities (include but not limited to):
• Present engaging programming and experiences for all ages (including children aged 3 & older).
• Utilize developmentally appropriate practices that inspire conservation action.
• Organize rooms, reservations, paperwork, materials, and supplies before and after programs.
• Gain an in-depth understanding of materials available for programming including, but not limited to, animal artifacts, live animals, exhibits, staff, and other zoo resources.
• Making sure all necessary supplies and documentation are accounted for.
• Evaluate programs and provide reports.
• Operate audio/visual equipment as needed.
• Ability to work with and direct volunteers.
• Ability to create and implement STEM based lesson plans.

Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
• Weekday and/or weekend availability required (including some evening hours). Peak seasonal hours may be up to 40 hours per week. Average per week is 12-18 hours.
• Applicant must be at least 18 years of age or older.
• Progress toward or completion of a university degree in teacher education, environmental education, natural sciences, or related field.
• Storytelling and/or performing experience.
• Ability to present dynamic, creative, and mission-driven programming.
• Ability to reinterpret scientific information in an engaging and entertaining way for different age groups.
• Ability to work with a variety of animals, including reptiles, amphibians, arachnids, insects, and small mammals.
• Flexibility in dealing with program delivery and late-notice changes.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekdays, evenings, and weekends.
• Experience or strong interest in working with children and adults.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Willingness to learn new information.
• Knowledge of animals and the outdoors is a plus.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors, both on and off Zoo grounds.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license.

Work Environment and Physical Effort:
• Must be able to travel long distances across the Zoo.
• Will sometimes work extended/odd hours including weekends, holidays and some night programs.
• Physical effort may be required.
• Work is performed indoors and outdoors, under all weather conditions.

DISCLAIMER

The information presented indicates the general nature and level of work expected of employees in this classification. It is not designed to contain, nor is it to be interpreted as, a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and objectives required of employees assigned to this job.

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer as defined by the EEOC.