Public Programs Manager - Education Department Working with youth and their families at the zoo is a dream job come true! Whether it is our 14-year-long, whole child development approach employed in Zoo Troop, our camps offered in every season, or the Living Classroom Education Access Fund that provides our programming to those in need at no cost, one can't help but feel you are a positive force in this world. There is nothing more satisfying than working with families, wildlife and our community in our public programs and starting them on their path to becoming conservationists. If you want to be a part of a department that starts youth and their parents on the path to being people that live their conservation values, then we would love to meet you! Position Summary: The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden's Education Department is seeking a creative and enthusiastic individual who has a passion for connecting children and families with nature and wildlife! Reporting to the Senior Manager of Public Programs, this position focuses on education program logistical preparations, staff hiring, training, scheduling and evaluation of public programs and other events. Incumbent supervises part-time instructors, AmeriCorps Members, volunteers and interns. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Recruiting, training, inspiring, supervising, scheduling, and evaluating part-time employees, instructors, volunteers and interns involved in Public Programs. Coordinating, organizing, and evaluating Public Programs including evening and weekend efforts. Leading by example and enabling every member of the team to act. Staying current and informed in trends and best practices in informal learning (Environmental Education, Natural History Interpretation, Participatory Education - specifically Inquiry Based Learning, etc.) Implement strategies designed to accomplish yearly budgetary and strategic goals for Public Programs. Working directly with children and families attending Public Programs providing inclusive program opportunities for children with varying developmental disabilities. Working regularly with the animal collection to maintain the highest level of proficiency, maintains their status as an animal handling trainer, to offer high quality, innovative and fun programming that considers the needs of our guests, animal ambassadors, and takes full advantage of our animal resources. Staying in tune with participant, employee, and intern needs and is prepared to review and update curriculum for various Public Programs accordingly. Other related duties as assigned to ensure the overall wellbeing of the Education Department and its programs and advance the mission of the Zoo. Qualifications & Desired Skills: An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job will be considered. Education & Experience Bachelor's Degree in Education or one of the Biological Sciences. Experience working in environmental education or interpretive programs designed particularly for children and families. Aptitude for using operant conditioning methods when working with program animals. Knowledge, skills, and abilities Have a demonstrated affinity for the Mission of the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden A positive attitude is a must! (not to be confused with being an extrovert!) Demonstrate an understanding and acceptance of the Core Values and Behaviors of the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. Lives these on a day-today basis, "Modeling the Way" for others Strong knowledge of animal and plant natural history and an even stronger desire to convey knowledge to others. A strong conservation ethic and enthusiasm for wildlife. Command of Windows-based software and applications is required. Excellent attention to detail, project management