What are the responsibilities and job description for the Program Specialist - Curiosity Farms position at Thanksgiving Point Institute Inc.?
Curiosity Farms Programming Specialist Job Description
Wage: $13-14/hour
Shift: Part-time. Must be able to work rotating day and evening shifts during the week, including Saturdays and Holidays.
Benefits: Free Thanksgiving Point Membership for you and immediate family; 401(k); Employee Assistance Program; Financial Assistance Program; Thanksgiving Point venue discounts; and more!
Responsibilities:
- Lead engaging, interactive programming that connects guests with the natural world and the science of agriculture in a working farm setting.
- Welcome, guide, and interact with guests as they experience pony rides, animal encounters, cow milking, a themed playground, and train rides—encouraging curiosity and meaningful learning.
- Develop and adapt lesson plans in collaboration with the Programming Manager to meet venue-specific needs and educational goals.
- Train and mentor Explorers and other team members, modeling excellent program delivery and providing constructive feedback.
- Support the daily execution of scheduled shows and programs, ensuring consistency and guest satisfaction.
- Serve as a “player-coach,” leading by example and helping team members build confidence and skill in their own presentations.
- Partner with the Programming Manager and Guest Experience Manager to optimize programming logistics and visitor flow.
- Occasionally assist with general guest experience shifts and venue operations as assigned.
- Uphold and reinforce Thanksgiving Point’s mission, values, and commitment to high-quality visitor engagement.
- Participate in a culture of learning, innovation, and collaboration across departments.
- Ensure team members are equipped with the tools and resources they need for success.
- Embrace and follow established systems, procedures, and scripting that align with institutional goals—including revenue and membership objectives.
- Perform additional duties as assigned by management.
Requirements:
- Outstanding presentation and communication skills with the ability to engage diverse audiences, from small children to multigenerational groups.
- Positive, guest-focused attitude with strong interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a high-performing team.
- Open to feedback and committed to continuous improvement.
- Reliable, organized, and consistently professional in appearance and conduct.
- Physically capable of standing for long periods, lifting 30 lbs., and managing physical tasks related to program delivery.
- Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions and around large crowds.
- Minimum 1 year of supervisory or leadership experience.
- Prior experience in customer service, education, hospitality, youth leadership, or museum settings is a plus.
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Must be at least 18 years old and pass a background check.
- Proficient in English; bilingual skills are a plus.
Salary : $13 - $14