Education Program Instructor
School & Camp Programs
Job Posting
Roger Williams Park Zoo of Providence, Rhode Island, -one of the nation’s oldest zoos and exhibiting over
100 animal species, is currently recruiting for a Part-Time, Year-Round, Education Program Instructor for
School & Camp Programs position. The Education Program Instructor is primarily responsible for
facilitating School & Camp Programs.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Instructor Responsibilities
September – June
• Instruct Zoomobile programs for all ages (Toddler- Adult) on grounds and off grounds
• Participate in Winter, Spring & Fall Holiday ZooCamps as a counselor
• Facilitate at least two Snore & Roar Overnight programs per month (Fri & Sat 5 pm – 10 pm)
June – August
• Participate in Summer ZooCamp by conducting animal encounters, facilitating aftercare, filling in as a counselor
and administrative support as needed
• Instruct Zoomobile programs for all ages (Toddler- Adult) on grounds and off grounds
• Support additional programming as needed
Curriculum Responsibilities
• Work with Manager of School Programs to plan afterschool programming if applicable
Animal Handling Presentation Responsibilities
• Complete Program Animal Handling Training and be comfortable with all aspects of animal handling, enrichment
and presentation in programs. This may include (but is not limited to) the safe handling of snakes and other reptiles,
birds (including raptors), small mammals and invertebrates (including tarantulas, cockroaches & scorpions).
Other Functions and Responsibilities
• Carry animal carriers and program supplies to and from vehicles and throughout zoo.
• Safe operation of zoo vehicles when required for off-site programming.
• Assist Manager of School Programs & Manager of Family Programs with operational needs and duties as assigned.
Experience and Education:
Pursuit or completion of a Bachelor’s Degree in Education, Biology, Zoology, or related field from an
accredited college or university; or equivalent combination of education and experience. A minimum of
two years’ experience in informal education, teaching various age groups is required. Experience with
English Language Learners and experience and comfort with animal handling are strongly desired.
Skills and Aptitudes:
• Demonstrates a strong interest and/or experience in education, environmental education, and
environmental conservation
• Enthusiastic, open-minded, creative, flexible, adaptable, patient, self-motivated and able to work both
independently and with a team.
• Positive attitude and a passion for environmental education.
• Enjoy working with children of all ages and learning abilities.
• Comfortable interacting with the general public and speaking in front of large groups of people.
• Able to function in a professional environment, demonstrating responsibility, creative problem solving
and excellent interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills.
• Maintain effective working relationships with other departments, staff, professionals from other zoo
organizations, and the general public.
• An appreciation for informal, lifelong learning in agreement with RWP Zoo’s mission and
commitment to education, conservation and horticultural excellence.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (primarily Excel, Word & Outlook)
Additional Requirements:
• Flexibility to work occasional weekends, evenings, and holidays (up to 28 hours per week).
• Be comfortable working outdoors and in adverse conditions (heat, rain, cold, etc.).
• Occasional travel via all modes of transportation.
• Successful completion of a background check.
• Valid state driver’s license.
• CPR & First Aid certification strongly desired
• Lifting and/or moving an object up to 20 pounds is occasionally required in this position.
• This position also frequently requires handling moving animals, which may weigh up to 15 pounds,
for thirty-minute intervals.
Interested candidates are encouraged to send a cover letter and resume to:
Roger Williams Park Zoo
Attn: Ed– Program Instructor School & Camp Programs
1000 Elmwood Ave
Providence, RI 02907
[email protected]
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