Explore a career with Reid Park Zoo! We are seeking a part-time, Conservation Education Specialist! 

With a mission centered in conservation, the Zoo is Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and participates in over 50 Species Survival Plans for threatened and endangered species. Reid Park Zoo cares for over 200 exotic animal species from around the world, maintains a state-of-the-art elephant program, a cutting-edge veterinary clinic that serves as a teaching hospital for the University of Arizona veterinary program, and is a leader in the Monarch and Songbird Saving Animals From Extinction (SAFE) programs. With more than 600,000 visits annually, the Zoo is in the midst of an exciting expansion project, Pathway to Asia, that will add four acres to its campus, bringing new species such as red panda, Komodo dragon and Lar gibbons, as well as a breeding facility for critically-endangered Malayan tigers when it opens in 2026.

Reid Park Zoo’s mission is to connect people with animals, inspiring the protection of wild animals and wild places. Be a part of a vibrant, growing organization as Reid Park Zoo continues to support local and global conservation and the highest standards in animal care while providing educational opportunities and family fun. 

No phone calls or visits please.  This position is open until filled.  We are an Equal Opportunities Employer.  We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse staff by creating an inclusive environment. 

Pay Range: $17.65 to $20.30 per hour DOE 

Benefits: This position is not eligible for health and welfare, vacation or holiday pay. Benefits of this position include paid sick time, retirement plan, zoo membership, employee assistance program, and discounts on concession and gift shop purchases.

Job Overview: 

The Education Specialist independently delivers established educational programs and supports their effective implementation. This position emphasizes consistent program delivery, preparation, operational support, and contributions to program improvement. Experienced Specialists may mentor newer educators.

Reports to: Conservation Education Supervisor

General Duties

• Demonstrates and models the core values of the Reid Park Zoological Society (RPZS or the Zoo)
• Provide excellent customer service as a component of all job duties
• Perform duties in accordance with RPZS policies and procedures
• Follows Zoo safety protocols and procedures
• Independently prepare for and deliver educational programs, presentations, tours, camps, outreach programs, and other learning experiences
• Adapt teaching and interpretation techniques to different audiences while maintaining program objectives
• Handle animal ambassadors in accordance with Zoo protocols after completing required training and demonstrating competency
• Monitor animal welfare and promptly report safety, animal welfare, guest, or program concerns
• Assist Coordinators and Leads with program development, curriculum implementation, camps, special events, and departmental initiatives
• Prepare and maintain program materials, supplies, and equipment
• Provide constructive feedback and recommendations to improve program content, guest engagement, and operations
• Assist with routine program administration, logistics, and volunteer activities as assigned
• Provide task-specific direction to volunteers and mentor newer educators when qualified
• Communicate program status, needs, and concerns to Conservation Education leadership

Minimum Required Qualifications, Skills and Abilities

• Experience working with children or in education, interpretation, camps, or a similar setting
• Bachelor’s degree earned or in progress in biological sciences, education, or a related field preferred, or equivalent education and experience
• Basic understanding of a zoo’s role in wildlife conservation
• Proficient with MS Office, Word, Excel, and Google Workspace
• Attention to detail, organized, ability to manage multiple projects on time and deliver accurate work product
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills and ability to maintain positive, constructive relationships, at all levels, with a diverse population of staff, guests, volunteers, vendors, community partners and the public
• Politely assertive, energetic, and enjoy working in a fast paced, public/guest attraction focused environment
• A valid, current, unrestricted driver license
• Successfully complete pre-hire background check and pre-employment drug screen (we do not test for THC)
• Comply with periodic random drug testing if selected
• Proof of negative TB test within immediate past 12 months, OR, complete a pre-hire TB test (company paid) to be renewed annually
• Most recent COVID-19 Booster
• Completes all training as required
• Participates in emergency drills
• Reliable attendance and availability to work evenings and weekend

Preferred Qualifications, Skills, and Abilities

• A Master's Degree in a related science or education strongly preferred
• Experience at an AZA-accredited zoo, aquarium, museum, nature center, park, or similar public attraction
• Additional years of experience with informal education, animal ambassadors, curriculum implementation, or program evaluation
• Bilingual (any language, including ASL)

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds often
• Bend, stoop, kneel, reach frequently
• Stand and walk for long periods of time
• Repetitious motions with hands
• Must be able to work outside in either cold or hot weather conditions the majority of the time

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list.  It is intended to give a reasonable idea of what might be required.

Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), it is the policy of Reid Park Zoological Society to provide reasonable accommodation when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with a disability unless such accommodation would cause an undue hardship. The policy regarding requests for reasonable accommodation applies to all aspects of employment, including the application process. If reasonable accommodation is needed, don't hesitate to get in touch with the Human Resources Dept.