Zoo Engagement Program Manager

About the position

The Zoo Engagement Program Manager is a key member of the Learning & Engagement (L&E) Team and is responsible for the management and development of guest facing interpretive programming and staff at the Audubon Zoo. The scope of this programming includes live exhibit interpretation, chats, Ambassador Animal encounters, interpretation stations, behind-the-scenes and facility tours, community outreach, and special event programming. The Supervisor is responsible for ensuring a high level of welfare for all animal ambassadors used in programming. This position will work in partnership with the L&E Ambassador Animal team to ensure the best practices in animal ambassador presentation and training are maintained by all who facilitate animal encounters. As a leader on the L&E team, the Manager participates in strategic and financial planning, effective resource management, proactive communication both internally and externally, and promotes appropriate professional development opportunities for the entire team.

Responsibilities

• Supervising, scheduling, training, evaluating and coaching Zoo Engagement supervisors, coordinators, specialists, interns, and volunteers at Audubon Zoo
• Recruiting, interviewing, hiring and onboarding Zoo Engagement staff, interns and volunteers with the support of the Director of Engagement
• Working with L&E leadership to develop and implement a comprehensive evaluation plan for all programs
• Developing and implementing multi-faceted training and support resources for guest engagement staff, interns, and volunteers
• Working directly and cooperatively with animal care teams in all aspects of interpretive programming collaboration, animal welfare and animal handling
• Preparing for all programs by training staff and volunteers, maintaining inventory of supplies, and securing all physical space, as needed
• Conducting analysis of programming and the changing needs of audiences to update programs as needed
• Serving as a model for professional behavior, display courtesy, tact, discretion, good judgement, consideration, and respect
• Actively collaborating with Marketing, Development, Membership, Special Events, and Animal Care teams to support non-routine special events
• Actively seeking up-to-date information on informal educational methodologies and trends
• Actively seeking out and participating in professional development opportunities as approved by supervisor

Requirements

• 5+ years working experience in an informal learning environment and demonstrated experience working in animal encounters and naturalist chats
• Experience in developing, implementing, and evaluating educational programs tailored to diverse audiences
• Proven leadership experience of a large team
• Bachelor's degree required in Education, Biology, Zoology, Communications, Ecology, Environmental Education or other related field, and/or equivalent work experience
• Demonstrated experience in effective management and communication with youth and adults from diverse backgrounds
• Experience handling animals or ability to learn to handle animals that may include reptiles, birds, mammals, and invertebrates
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines effectively
• Exemplary presentation and oral communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, for program coordination and communication
• Must be able to work holidays, weekend and occasional after hour events
• Must have a valid, state-issued driver's license

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in an AZA institution and familiarity with AZA standards
• Experience working with Ambassador Animal programming
• Experience working with or overseeing volunteers
• Extensive knowledge of wildlife biology and conservation
• Experience working with program accessibility and inclusion
• Experience with BioFact collections management
• Certified Interpretive Guide certification or equivalent credential