Nashville Zoo is seeking upbeat, positive individuals to serve as educators for overnight programming. Positions may be trained and available for other programming throughout the season, but will primarily work with overnight programming. Weekend and evening work is required, some holiday work may be required. Overnight Instructors must be available to work 4:30 pm - 10:00 am the following morning. Overnight instructors must be able to work a minimum of two overnight programs each month and programs are typically on Friday and Saturday evenings.
Overnight programs include developed lessons, activities, crafts, night and morning hikes, and games. Programs are typically themed to discuss habitats, ecology, and environmental concepts, but may be tailored to the specific needs of a group. Overnight programs are offered primarily on Friday and Saturday evenings, year-round. This is a year-round, part-time position. The Overnight Instructor is responsible for:
Instruction of overnight programming, including lessons, games, crafts, night and morning hikes.
Staying at the zoo overnight with the group.
Preparing evening snack and morning breakfast.
Communicating with zoo staff, including security personnel.
Completing inventory of materials and food supplies
Assisting with planning, preparation, and purchasing of supplies as needed.
Following safety protocols at all times and emergency procedures as needed.
If need dictates throughout the season, may be trained for teen, camp, or interpretive programming.
Skills:
Excellent communication, leadership, and time management skills; and the ability to work as part of a team
Must work well without direct supervision
Must have the ability to follow written and oral instructions
Must work well with audiences of varying ages
Knowledge of basic teaching methods as well as non-traditional techniques for early childhood development
Computer experience, including use of Microsoft Office and digital media
Ability to respond to emergency situations calmly and follow protocols
Experience with interacting with the public is required
Previous experience teaching or working in a camp setting is strongly desired
Education:
Applicants must be at least 18 years of age
High school diploma or GED equivalent required
Strong interest or background in education, history, museums, or interpretation desired
Bachelor's degree in Education, Biology, Zoology, or other environmentally related major desired
Physical Requirements:
Ability to lift up to 25 pounds
Ability to work outdoors in rain, humidity, and temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit
Ability to walk zoo grounds for long periods of time, up and down stairs, bend down, and ambulate quickly
Employee Requirements:
Prior to hire, the successful candidate must:
Submit to a criminal background check and drug screen
Provide proof of a negative TB test
Provide proof of a valid driver's license
Nashville Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug Free Workplace.