The Foraker Group

Job Summary

Job Description

About the Alaska Zoo

The Alaska Zoo is a 501c(3) non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the conservation of Arctic, sub-Arctic and like climate species through education, research and community enrichment. Established in 1969, the zoo has built its reputation as the leading wildlife facility in Alaska, based on the values of community, education, stewardship, safety and fun.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

An Educator at the Alaska Zoo leads mission-driven programs that connect visitors and listeners of all ages with wildlife and conservation. They develop and implement camp curriculum while providing oversight to seasonal camp staff. This position designs and directs Zoo Snooze programs, on-site animal presentations and leads tours. In partnership with the Alaska Zoo Husbandry Team, this position is responsible for coordinating and delivering Education Programs, including participation in weekly animal training sessions, development of educational content, and presentation of engaging programs featuring ambassador animals. Educators collaborate closely with the husbandry team to develop accurate programs for the public.

The ideal candidate for this position will have a knowledge and passion for the natural world, conservation, and outdoor education. They will possess experience in a child-care setting, specifically within the educational or classroom setting. The candidate would ideally have a background in outdoor education or a similar field.

• Develop and implement winter and summer camp curriculum for campers ages 6 to 12 years old.
• Coordinate and deliver on-site Educational Programs and participate in weekly animal training sessions in partnership with the Husbandry team.
• Develops and delivers Zoo Snooze programs, including providing oversight during the night.
• Plans for and participates in community-based events.
• Host educational animal demonstrations in conjunction with Husbandry staff
• Animal training under the direction of the husbandry team
• Assists with educational based programs as needed: Distance Learnings, Outreaches.
•  Ensuring that participants learn in a safe, fun and enriching environment.  
• Ability to follow and uphold the Alaska Zoo values of community, education, stewardship, safety and fun.
• Other duties, as agreed upon and assigned.

Education and/or Work Experience Requirements:

• Bachelors’ Degree in Natural Science or Early Childhood Education, or relevant experience.
• Ability to use a variety of interpretive techniques to convey information to the public.
• Good public speaking ability and willingness to give presentations to a large audience. 
• Previous animal experience preferred, but not required.
• Proficient in MS Office.
• Ability to work independently, as well as part of a team.
•  Enthusiasm for working with children and fostering their love of nature and animals.
• Ability to manage time efficiently
• A valid driver's license.
• A successful background check is required for this position.

Physical Requirements:

• Applicant must be able to lift and carry up to twenty-five (25) pounds.
• Applicant must be capable of working in a dynamic outdoor setting, including variable weather conditions.
• While performing duties of this job, you will be required to stand, walk, sit, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, stoop or kneel, talk and hear, and use fingers and hands to feel objects, tools or controls.