Since the opening of Brookfield Zoo in 1934, the Society has had an international reputation for taking a cutting-edge role in animal care and conservation of the natural world. The Society is an active partner in wildlife protection programs around the world, including the Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, the world's longest-running study of bottlenose dolphins. We have pioneered the field of conservation psychology, the study of how people connect with animals and nature. We are able to reach so many audiences each year, including 2 million zoo guests engaged by unique exhibits and programs; some 250,000 schoolchildren, campers, and families who participate in award-winning science education programs; nearly 24,000 teachers who take part in our professional development workshops; and, diverse communities across Chicagoland. The Chicago Zoological Society's Brookfield Zoo is known throughout the world as a leader in animal welfare and conservation, this venerable institution also serves as a potent economic engine, top tourism attraction and award-winning educational institution.

The Instructor, School Programs (Temporary) presents educational programs to various groups, assists in teacher classes, assists in the development of new programs, and provides a safe, fun and educational class experience. Instructors are responsible for setting up, teaching, and taking down the CONNECTIONS program materials in assigned classrooms and designated sites throughout the zoo, for programs for students preschool through high school. Instructors participate in other Conservation, Education & Training Department programs as requested, such as assisting with teacher workshops. Furthermore, Instructors assist with evaluating, updating, and making recommendations to the programs as part of the Conservation, Education and Training team; maintain supply inventory of equipment and materials needed to deliver programs; and assist with clerical duties for educational programs.

Position Requirements and Specifications
This is a temporary position. Minimum starting wage: $12.25 per hour.

The requirements for this position include:

• Bachelor's Degree in education, life, or environmental science, or other directly relevant field or equivalent combination of related training and experience required.
• Minimum one year experience teaching in a classroom or informal education setting required.
• Experience teaching a range of ages and group sizes, using a variety of strategies required.
• Experience working or volunteering in a zoo, aquarium, museum, nature center, art studio environment, or early childhood classroom preferred.
• Must have an interest in conservation, biological diversity, and the natural world.
• Must have a genuine interest in learning and innovative approaches to education.
• Must be able to accommodate a flexible schedule, including regular weekends, holidays and evening work as needed.
• Excellent customer service skills and/or demonstrated ability to work with the public effectively.
• Must have the ability to work cooperatively with others.
• Good oral and written communication skills required.
• Basic computer and data entry skills required; experience using Microsoft Word, Excel, and Internet strongly preferred.
• Spanish fluency a plus, but not required.

Additional Information
This requisition is to actively recruit for a position for 2015.

The Chicago Zoological Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer - Minorities / Women / Veterans / Disabled.