Field Trip Facilitator

POSITION SUMMARY  

This position focuses on bridging the gap between scientific information and student understanding to address Utah science standards and inspire champions for wildlife. The field trip facilitator is responsible for delivering engaging, age-appropriate standards-based educational programs to school groups and the zoo guests. The schedule is variable based on fieldtrip reservations. Facilitators will also assist in creating additional programming, maintaining records and materials, facilitating program evaluations, and other educational duties. Stations are outside, and accommodations are made for inclement weather. 

 
This position is a part time, seasonal position. Hours are 9:30 am-2:00 pm Monday-Thursday until May 21st. It pays $15.5 an hour. 

Utah’s Hogle Zoo has been a loved and trusted part of the community for over 90 years. Besides providing a great experience for our guests, we aim to create champions for wildlife, regardless of the job or position you have at the Zoo. If you believe in hard work, have a great attitude, are passionate about what you do, and love working with people, then we look forward to talking with you! 

REPORTING RELATIONSHIP 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

1. Ability to read and facilitate engaging and educational activities based on zoo lesson plans. 
2. Organize and maintain educational materials and assigned areas, ensuring they are clean, safe, and ready for use.
3. Actively contributes to a positive student experience by seeking out interactions with fieldtrip students of all ages, engaging with them and communicating key messages.

1. Presents clear and engaging interpretive messages to guests of varying ages and varying group sizes.
2.  Learns and communicates key messages regarding species information, FAQs, and conservation efforts as well as opportunities for guests to support these conservation efforts
3. Ability to set up and tear down a station in a timely manner. 
4. Embodies a positive attitude and welcoming presence to students and guests with the ability to field questions.
5. Represents the Zoo in a positive manner by maintaining a positive attitude and delivering exceptional guest service.
6. Ability to collect and record data based on daily programs. 
7. Work as a team player within the Education Department, mentor volunteers, and assist with special projects as needed.
8. Follow all safety protocols, communicate effectively with staff using radio systems, and be prepared to assist in emergency procedures.
9. Provide timely and professional communication with education staff and volunteers.
10. Participate in program debriefs and assessments.
11. Commitment to learning and growing through feedback in an active learning community.
12. Commitment to the zoo’s mission and conservation efforts.
13. Performs other duties as assigned.
14. Maintains strict confidentiality. 

DESIRED EXPERIENCE 

Education and Experience  

• College students and recent graduates from education, environmental science, or related fields.

• Must be 18 years old or older

Other Requirements 

• Commitment to support Utah’s Hogle Zoo’s work towards inclusion in the workplace
• Must pass a background check, drug test, and a child safety screening procedure, post-offer

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities 

• Ability to accurately convey scientific information in a meaningful way to children and adults using a variety of interpretive techniques.
• Ability to master key messages and species information on a variety of exhibits.
• Ability to attend to guests one-on-one as well as speak publicly to a large group of guests.
• Strong verbal communication and presentation skills.
• Strong interest in education and conservation.
• Ability to work a highly flexible schedule as required to successfully perform the requirements and functions of the position
• Ability to understand and follow all safety regulations.
• Ability to arrive at work when scheduled and maintain a positive attendance record.
• Ability to deal tactfully and politely with guest questions and misbehavior.
• Excellent communication skills to establish and maintain effective working relationships with team members, volunteers, partners, and the community. 

• Follow written and verbal instructions.
• Apply critical thinking techniques.
• Analyze and solve problems.
• Perform within deadlines.
• Ability to stay focused despite interruptions.
• Deal with stress caused by deadlines.
• Work well in a team environment as well as independently.
• Memory for details.

Utah’s Hogle Zoo is a drug-free workplace. All employees are subject to random drug testing.  

Utah’s Hogle Zoo is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all.     

Requires a valid driver’s license. 

Work Environment 

Work involves being able to lift and carry 40lbs, standing for prolonged periods and spending time in a variety of weather. Tasks require a variety of physical activities which do not generally involve muscular strain, but do require activities related to walking, standing, bending, stooping, sitting, reaching, talking, hearing and seeing. Common eye, hand, finger dexterity required to perform essential functions.   

 Apply on the Hogle Zoo website.