Part-Time Wildlife Education Specialist

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

• Associate or bachelor's degree in wildlife biology, zoology, natural sciences, environmental education, interpretation, or a related field preferred.
• Equivalent combinations of education, training, and relevant experience may be considered.
• One to two years of experience in wildlife care, animal handling, environmental education, interpretation, public programming, or a related field preferred.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and be insurable under the Park District’s liability policy.
• Successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen and background check is required.
• Must be available to work a variable schedule, including weekdays, weekends, evenings, and holidays, and to work outdoors in changing weather conditions.
• Must be able to perform the essential duties of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Must be able to safely operate Park District vehicles and job-related equipment and remain insurable under the Park District’s liability policy.
• Must be able to work independently and cooperatively with employees, volunteers, and community partners.

• Must be willing to obtain pre-exposure rabies vaccination.
• Must have proof of a recent tetanus vaccination or the ability to obtain one within a timeframe agreed upon with the manager.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Delivers prepared and original school, community, and public programs focused on wildlife, conservation, and responsible environmental stewardship.
• Provides daily care for animal ambassadors, including feeding, cleaning, enrichment, observation, recordkeeping, and support for approved training and handling practices.
• Safely handles animal ambassadors for educational programs and demonstrations in accordance with established protocols and training.
• Researches, evaluates, edits, and develops curricula, interpretive programs, displays, signs, brochures, and other educational resources for varied audiences and learning needs.
• Supports special events, public demonstrations, outreach activities, and visitor engagement at assigned Lake Metroparks facilities and off-site program locations.
• Maintains accurate program, animal-care, supply, and incident records as assigned.
• Follows all applicable safety procedures, reports hazards or incidents promptly, and supports a safe environment for participants, visitors, volunteers, and staff.
• Performs other duties related to the position as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to use email, web-based applications, social media tools used for public communication, and Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Ability to safely use small hand tools, step ladders, animal-care equipment, audiovisual equipment, and Park District vehicles after required training.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Knowledge of Ohio wildlife, ecology, conservation, and natural history appropriate to public education programs.
• Knowledge of humane animal care, welfare, enrichment, handling, sanitation, and biosecurity practices.
• Knowledge of educational interpretation, curriculum development, and inclusive methods for serving participants with varied backgrounds, abilities, and learning needs.
• Knowledge of basic workplace safety, incident reporting, and risk-reduction practices relevant to animal care and public programming.

• Clear and respectful verbal, written, presentation, and interpersonal communication.
• Public speaking and facilitation for participants with varied levels of knowledge and experience.
• Development and delivery of accurate, accessible, and engaging educational content.
• Organization, time management, documentation, and prioritization of multiple assignments.
• Observation and communication of changes in animal condition or behavior in accordance with established procedures.

• Ability to establish respectful working relationships with participants, visitors, volunteers, coworkers, and community partners.
• Ability to handle and present live animals safely and responsibly after required training.
• Ability to adapt programs and communication methods to support varied audiences and access needs.
• Ability to identify problems, gather relevant information, follow established procedures, and seek guidance when needed.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively while responding appropriately to changing program, visitor, and animal-care needs.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

WORK ENVIRONMENT

BENEFITS

• OPERS membership (Ohio Public Employees Retirement System)
• Paid leave policies after 3 years of service
• Employee Assistance Program
• Additional perks: Northeastern Ohio Inter-Museum Council membership, and agency discounts.