Conservation Engagement Specialist at Virginia Zoological Society

Norfolk, Virginia, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

06 Aug, 26

Salary

0.0

Posted On

08 May, 26

Experience

2 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Verbal Communication, Written Communication, Interpersonal Skills, Customer Service, Organizational Skills, Time Management, Analytical Skills, Problem Solving, Microsoft Office Suite, Program Evaluation, Volunteer Supervision, Animal Handling

Industry

Higher Education

Description

Description The Conservation Engagement Specialist works within the Mission Engagement department to maximize the effectiveness of the Virginia Zoo’s interpretive and conservation engagement programs. The Conservation Engagement Specialist develops, delivers, and evaluates all Virginia Zoo conservation engagement programs. These programs include, but are not limited to, educator chats, early childhood programs, animal ambassador pop-ups, special events, and community science programs. This is a full-time, non-exempt position with benefits, reporting to the Conservation Engagement Manager. Sunday – Thursday schedule with occasional evening and Friday or Saturday work required. Job Responsibilities Contribute to the development, scheduling, training, delivering, and evaluation of conservation engagement programs, including but not limited to daily Zoo interpretive programs, early childhood programs, Zoo tours and Zoo-wide events. Assist the Conservation Engagement Team with providing daily administration and periodic evaluation of staff and volunteers’ execution of guest engagement programs. Track and compile data monthly on attendance and feedback for conservation engagement programs. Work with Conservation Engagement Team to identify any missed opportunities and opportunities for growth. Supervise Conservation Youth Team teen volunteers including during on-grounds volunteer hours, off-site trip, and in advanced tracks. Contribute to the development, implementation, and facilitation of interpretation trainings for Zoo staff and volunteers. Lead and/or assist the development of conservation engagement opportunities zoo-wide events and volunteer pathways related to conservation engagement programs. Lead and/or assist in the development of community science, animal handling programs, and outreach opportunities. Maintain biofact library with tracking, audits, evaluation, and physical maintenance. Handle Animal Ambassador collection animals utilized in conservation engagement programs. Assist Animal Ambassador Team with animal husbandry tasks associated with conservation engagement programs. Assist other Zoo departments by providing research content, write articles, fliers, communications/interpretive materials, and other promotional and support materials, as assigned. Remain up to date on latest trends and research to promote effective educational guest engagement strategies. Required Skills and Abilities Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Ability to prioritize tasks. Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software. Ability to work and interact with guests, staff, adult volunteers, and teen volunteers. Education and Experience: Bachelor’s Degree preferred, or equivalent experience in related field At least two years related experience in interpretive programs required. Certification from the National Association of Interpretation (CIG), preferred for II or Senior Physical Requirements: Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer. Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times. Must be able to work outside year-round in varying weather conditions.

Responsibilities

Develop, deliver, and evaluate conservation engagement programs including educator chats, early childhood programs, and community science initiatives. Supervise youth volunteers and manage the biofact library while assisting with animal husbandry for ambassador animals.