Learning & Engagement Specialist II (Animal Programs)

About the Position

Pay Range: To maintain internal equity, we have identified the starting range for this position at the Oakland Zoo as $25.10 - $26.00 per hour. An offer within this range will be determined by the experience and qualifications of a candidate and will be our best and final compensation offer.

Applications accepted until August 22, 2025.

Position Summary

Serves as a first-line instructor, developing and delivering interactive, safe, engaging, high-quality Pre-K through 12th grade education and public programs. Helps with the identification of content to be covered and the development of curriculum and materials, in accordance with and supporting the Conservation Society of California’s mission and the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). Is prepared to lead public programs and discussions regarding animal background, care and activities, environmental issues, and other topics of interest to the guests. Has a proven ability to teach rigorous conservation education and willingness to obtain training to handle various program animals. Works with the ambassador animals on training and handling in order to deliver positive, choice-based educational animal programming. Is prepared to train other staff in ethical animal handling and programming. Serves as a technical resource to visitors in wayfinding and providing information. Upholds the mission and values established by the Conservation Society of California (the "Zoo" or CSC) and adheres to policies and procedures as set forth by the Zoo, the Learning & Engagement (L&E) team, and the Animal Care team.

Education

Department

Manager:

Year-Round

Full-Time

$25.10 - $26.00

Application Deadline:

Applications accepted until August 22, 2025

Benefits

Oakland Zoo offers a comprehensive benefits package, including Health insurance, Dental insurance, Vision insurance, Flexible spending account, Retirement plan, Paid time off, Employee Assistance Program, and A Family Zoo Membership.

Apply

Essential Job Duties

Present and handle Ambassador Animals in educational settings including ZooMobiles, Wildlife Theater, Assemblies, and on-grounds programs.
Train and build behavioral responses with Ambassador Animals under guidance from Animal Care Department protocols.
Maintain required certifications and support training of staff in animal handling and presenting practices.
Maintain knowledge of wildlife, conservation topics, and the California Conservation Society’s mission, values, and policies.
Assist in developing and maintaining curriculum, presentation materials, and handling protocols for animal-related programs.
Collaborate with internal teams and partners to develop and support Learning & Engagement programming, including Zoo Camp and Zoo School.
Perform other related duties as required and assigned

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Who You Are

Some college level coursework in biology, zoology, life and environmental science, and/or education preferred.
Background in teaching (formal or informal) and/or experience working with children (camps, tutoring, coaching, etc.)
Background in Ambassador Animal work and some knowledge on industry standards.
Commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within the learning environment.
Deliver exceptional customer service and maintain positive, professional interactions with guests, staff, volunteers, and program participants.
Demonstrate public speaking skills and strong communication in both oral and written formats; ability to engage TK–HS audiences.
Perform accurate data entry and analysis related to program statistics and operational reporting.
Show adaptability, initiative, and strong organizational skills in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with minimal supervision.
Possesses a valid Driver's License

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Bonus if you have...

Experience working at an AZA institution or equivalent facility
Experience or understanding of current best practices regarding operant conditioning and positive reinforcement training models

Work Environment

Must be able to work both indoors and outdoors in variable weather conditions.
- Majority of time (~65%) spent out on Zoo grounds, with possibility of exposure to sun, wind, light rain, pollen, humidity, and varied outdoor temperatures, and noise levels.
- Remainder of time (~35%) spent indoors in standard office conditions, exposed to moderate noise levels

Physical Abilities

Must be able to navigate moderate hills, be on foot for 90 minutes
Must be able to drive Zoo vehicles
Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.

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Required Education

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Knowledge, Skills, and Qualities

May be representative, but not all-inclusive, of those knowledge, skills and abilities commonly associated with this position.

Knowledge, Skills, and Qualities– May be representative, but not all-inclusive, of those knowledge, skills and abilities commonly associated with this position.

Communication – communicates respectfully and effectively with stakeholders across identities, both verbally and in writing
Dependability – demonstrates trustworthiness and reliability, including while working with little or no direct supervision
Flexibility – nimbly adapts to evolving priorities and urgent needs; handles intervals of high pressure while maintaining perspective and humor
Inclusive Culture - fosters a culture of mutual respect, transparency, collaboration and belonging which allows all employees to feel appreciated, included, and valued.
Organization – strong attention to details and able to build and/or maintain efficient systems
Passion – wholeheartedly believes in, represents, and models Oakland Zoo’s mission and PRIDE values at all times
Presentation – able to convey ideas clearly and sensitively, highlight key takeaways and translate impact; have thoughtful presence, can quickly build rapport with others, and are comfortable in front of a variety of audiences
Sustainability – oriented toward the mission and values of Oakland Zoo and able to put those into practice by finding creative and resourceful ways to develop sustainable practices within your role and department
Technological Aptitude – able to quickly understand, develop and maintain functional digital systems
Time Management – strong capabilities with a demonstrated ability to effectively prioritize multiple commitments
Wildlife Aware - understands mission to support the conservation and welfare of animals at the Zoo, locally and globally. This is demonstrated by a willingness/passion to reflect this mission in all actions and to continue to learn how to take action for wildlife

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Who We Are

Oakland Zoo (managed by The Conservation Society of California) is an award-winning facility stretching 100 acres and overlooking the city of Oakland atop the hills of beautiful Knowland Park. Our mission is to inspire respect for and stewardship of the natural world, while providing a quality visitor experience. As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), The Zoo is part of the largest conservation organization in the nation. Our employees take PRIDE in our values of being Positive, Respectful, Inquisitive, Driven and Effective members of a team who places the care of our animals, stewardship of the natural environment, and the experience of our guests at the forefront of all that we do.

Oakland Zoo’s Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access

We believe that all people should have safe access to the Zoo and culturally relevant and responsive experiences with our staff, programs and curriculum. Oakland Zoo is also striving to create an equitable and inclusive internal culture where all staff members feel represented and valued for their identities and lived experiences. We examine how power, bias, race and other aspects of identity impact our organization. We work to build a culture of continuous learning and improvement toward a vision of equity and belonging for all staff. We are looking for team members who can actively join us in this process. We are committed to reflecting the diverse community in which we exist and strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ identifying folks, and women to apply.

The Conservation Society of California is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, QAOV status, or other characteristics protected by law. The Conservation Society of California also promotes respect for all people and will not tolerate harassment based on any of these characteristics.
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Oakland Zoo participates in E-Verify to verify work authorization.