Educator (School Programs) – (Part-time wmedical benefits, year-round)

Location: Primarily based at Saint Louis Zoo Forest Park
Department:Education
Classification: Non-Exempt/Hourly
Position Type:Part-Time/Medical Benefit Eligible

Position Summary: Educators develop lead and evaluate high quality and differentiated educational programs in a variety of ways including: in-person programs on Zoo grounds in person outreach programs at offsite locations in the St. Louis community and virtual programs via Zoom.

Responsibilities: During the academic year (September through May) this position primarily teaches school audiences via 45-minute-long programs (several booked back-to-back) while in the summer season (June to August) this position will lead week-long zoo camps which serve campers 2^nd-9^th grades. Virtual programs take place year-round serving primarily elementary audiences on a global level. When needed this position assists with outreach programs which travel to and serve a variety of audiences including daycares schools afterschool programs and assisted living facilities in and around the St Louis area year-round.

While having primary responsibilities of on grounds school programs camps and virtual programs this person will be joining a team that works together and fills in for all program coverage as needed; as such educators must be comfortable with children as young as two years of age through adults 80 years (potentially with Alzheimers/memory challenges).

Educators must have comfort with and the ability to differentiate curriculum and teach to a variety of ages group sizes and types of audience backgrounds and abilities. Classroom/group management both in person and virtually is essential. Effective communication and understanding via spoken and written English required. Comfort teaching in a virtual environment is vital. Comfortable driving a Zoo vehicle in and around St Louis is needed. The ability to be flexible in scheduling and to mentally pivot is integral to success in this position. Excellent time management and forward-thinking & planning are essential to success. Open to feedback from program participants team members and supervisor is key. Building community and having rapport with teachers students and individuals necessary. With virtual audiences awareness of and honoring differing cultures required. Ability to speak other languages a plus.

Educators will model the Conservation Education Departments mission values and philosophy as well as adhere to the Zoos overall mission and values. Educators will work in partnership with others in the department and/or Zoo community as needed to design implement and evaluate new educational programs that convey developmentally appropriate Zoo and conservation messages and train other staff on any new programs created.

Successful candidates will thrive in fast-paced dynamic team-oriented atmosphere with an open-cubicle environment when working at the Zoo. However the candidate must have the willingness and capabilities to also work from home during scheduled work hours if needed. This position will be based primarily at the Forest Park Zoo campus but will also be expected to lead programs and/or work at/near the new WildCare Park campus occasionally throughout the year.

Educators will be trained to exhibit responsible and appropriate biofact (skulls pelts skins etc.) management and handling. Educators will be also be trained on the Conservation Education Departments program development process and expectations. Attendance is required at all Zoo trainings as well as select other professional development opportunities.

Educator is responsible for Zoo asset management including but not limited to: respectful use of shared digital resources (e.g. - iPhones Bluetooth headsets laptops video cameras etc.) maintaining the cleanliness and functionality of the Zoos distance learning studio maintaining the cleanliness of Education vehicles maintaining and organizing program supplies and assisting with other Education projects as assigned.

Qualifications: Bachelors degree in education/biology or related field. Experience teaching informal science-education is desired. Experience with STEM inquiry-based learning and/or differentiated environmental education is a plus. A valid drivers license required (if Missouri is the issuing state must be willing to obtain a Class E drivers license). Successful candidates will have excellent time management organizational communication and planning skills. Must be able to work independently as well as delegate duties if needed. Strong attention to detail will be useful. Excellent customer service skills are needed. Need to be familiar and comfortable with Microsoft Office Suite.

Pay rate based upon experience. Position includes accrued PTO time and optional medical insurance but no additional paid benefits. There are Zoo employee benefits including free parking attraction tickets and discounts at the Zoo. May be required to have an annual TB test.

All successful candidates for this position will be required to undergo a criminal background check (prior to hire and annually as part of the Conservation Education Departments Youth Safety Policies) and a drug test. As this is a safety-sensitive role a negative drug test result is mandatory. The drug test screens for five substances including marijuana.

Physical Demands: If hired the candidate must be able to lift and carry up to 40 pounds on flat ground and up or down stairs potentially several times a day. Must be comfortable walking across Zoo grounds potentially several times a day in various weather conditions.

Work Schedule: Hours average 35 a week; most programs are scheduled during weekdays but some evening weekend and occasional holiday availability is required and will be communicated in advance. Work week is primarily Monday through Friday.

About the Saint Louis Zoo:The world-renowned Saint Louis Zoo is dedicated to saving species and bringing people and wildlife together. The Saint Louis Zoo cares for approximately 12000 animals many of which are endangered and is dedicated to local and global conservation to save wildlife. Learn more at: Zoo is committed to the Three Keys (Animals Always People Matter and Operational Excellence) and Core Values (Community Creativity Openness Integrity and Life-Work Balance. Learn more at: St. Louis Mo:From Explore St. Louis: Urban explorer outdoor adventurer aficionado of family fun no matter your travel persona youll find plenty to do in St. Louis. The city is brimming with free world-class attractions and boasts an arts-and-culture scene thats second to none. Plus fans of fresh air will be surprised and delighted by our flourishing public parks miles of trails and exhilarating waterways. Sprinkle in a bit of our secret sauce the warmth and hospitality of the residents and youll discover that St. Louis dishes up undeniably epic travel experiences. Dont take our word for it though. Come and see for yourself. Learn more at start date March 2026.

Required Experience:

IC