PT Interpretation & Engagement Specialist

Birmingham Zoo Inc. (BZI) is a nonprofit, Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited Zoo and regional tourist attraction serving the greater Birmingham community and beyond. We advance wildlife conservation through responsible animal care, education, and local and global conservation efforts in support of our mission, Inspiring Passion to Conserve the Natural World.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Part-Time Interpretation & Engagement Specialist is responsible for developing, coordinating, and delivering interpretive programs and experiences for diverse audiences across on-site, virtual, and community settings. This role contributes to guest engagement, program evaluation, and delivery of consistent conservation messaging while supporting a collaborative, team-based environment.

All employees serve as ambassadors of the Zoo and are expected to act in a professional manner consistent with the Zoo’s mission and its core values of Passion, Excellence, Teamwork, Stewardship, and Inclusion. This expectation applies when interacting with the public or when reasonably perceived as representing the organization.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Develops, implements, and evaluates interpretive programs, including guided experiences, presentations, and interactive learning opportunities aligned with the Zoo’s mission and conservation messaging.
• Collaborates with staff zoo-wide to coordinate program delivery, provide training, and support consistent, high-quality guest engagement.
• Supports program planning and administration, including data tracking, reporting, and use of evaluation methods to improve program effectiveness and accessibility.
• Maintains knowledge of current education and interpretation practices and contributes to innovative, safe, and welcoming program development across on-site, virtual, and community settings.
• Adheres to all organizational policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Handbook and applicable departmental guidelines.
• This job description reflects the general nature of the work and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties. This position may be assigned additional duties reasonably related to the employee’s primary responsibilities and organizational needs, provided such duties are within the employee’s training, experience, and safety requirements and do not materially change the nature of the position.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

For purposes of this job description, “staff” may include employees, volunteers, interns, and other assigned personnel.

• No direct supervisory responsibility for staff.
• Demonstrates professionalism, accountability, and adherence to organizational policies, safety procedures, and training requirements, serving as a model for staff.

SAFETY ANALYSIS

• This position involves exposure to hazards common to both office and operational Zoo environments, including regular work in outdoor areas.
• Specific training and procedures will be provided to maintain safety of people as the highest priority, followed by the safety of the animal collection.
• Use and understanding of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required based on assigned tasks and work locations.
• Employees are required to follow all Zoo safety policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Handbook and Emergency Procedure Manual and to promptly report injuries, incidents, or safety concerns through established reporting channels.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described below are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this position, with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Ability to perform both desk-based tasks and active, operational duties within the Zoo environment.
• Ability to stand, walk, and move for extended periods across indoor and outdoor work areas.
• Ability to use hands, fingers, and tools or equipment required for assigned tasks.
• Ability to communicate effectively, including exchanging information with others.
• Ability to occasionally move, lift, or carry items up to 40 pounds, depending on assigned duties.
• Ability to work in varying environmental conditions, including exposure to weather, uneven terrain, and wet surfaces.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

Birmingham Zoo Inc. recognizes that skills and knowledge may be gained through a combination of education, paid employment, volunteer service, and other relevant experiences. Candidates who meet most of the qualifications for a position are encouraged to apply.

Education and Work Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent is required; a bachelor’s degree in education, biology, environmental science, or a related field is preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• At least one year of experience in an informal or environmental education or interpretive program setting is strongly preferred, with potential experience developing, leading, or assessing virtual and/or in-person programs
• Additional experience in a zoo, museum, camp, or similar setting is a plus.

Skills, Knowledge, and Desired Qualities

• Demonstrates organization, communication, and collaboration skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and contribute effectively within a team environment.
• Demonstrates knowledge of and interest in education, biology, zoology, or conservation-related fields and applies learner-centered approaches, including familiarity with or willingness to learn frameworks such as ROADMAP.
• Demonstrates willingness to obtain relevant certifications (e.g., Certified Interpretive Guide).
• Demonstrates an interest in supporting conservation-focused and mission-driven work.
• Demonstrates adaptability to regularly varying work schedules

Other Requirements

• Employees working in or around animal areas may be required to meet health and safety requirements based on job duties and risk exposure, in accordance with applicable law. These requirements may include TB testing, rabies vaccination or titer verification, and documentation of other vaccinations. In situations where required documentation is not provided or current, employees may be required to use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including an N95 respirator or similar protection, as determined by workplace safety protocols.
• May be required to obtain and maintain First Aid/CPR certification or be willing to complete training and certification as a condition of the role.
• May be required to operate Zoo-owned vehicles (including golf carts), powered equipment, and/or ride or attraction systems. In such cases, must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving record in accordance with Zoo policy. A pre-employment Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) check will be conducted, and an annual MVR review is required.
• May be required to travel on occasion.

HOURS OF WORK

• Work schedules are based on operational needs and may include any combination of weekdays, weekends, evenings, holidays, and special events.
• Frequent schedule adjustments, including days and hours worked, are required
• Periodic overnight shifts are required
• Employees may be required to work during emergency situations or unusual operational circumstances.

ORGAZATIONAL COMMITMENT

Birmingham Zoo Inc. is committed to fostering a safe and welcoming workplace and encourages applicants with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences to apply. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions. Birmingham Zoo Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

APPLICATION PROCESS

• Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
• Final candidates may be subject to background screening and drug testing, in accordance with applicable law.

This job description outlines the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position and does not constitute an employment contract. The Zoo reserves the right to modify duties, responsibilities, and requirements at any time based on operational needs.

Employment with Birmingham Zoo Inc. is at-will and may be terminated by either the employee or the organization at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with applicable law.

Salary : $17