Learning Experiences Facilitator

Lincoln Park Zoo; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 25,000 - 29,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Free admission to attractions

Free on-site parking

Discounts on events and dining

LPZooU training and education sessions

Health Savings Account contribution

Green spaces at the zoo

Job summary

Lincoln Park Zoo is seeking a part-time Learning Experiences Facilitator to guide K-12 learners through hands-on experiences on zoo grounds, in classrooms, and virtually. The role supports environmental and conservation education under the Student and Teacher Programs Coordinator and may help develop new resources for teachers.

Flexibility with school-day hours (8am–3pm) and occasional weekends or events is required.

Qualifications

• Experience guiding K-12 learners in formal or informal settings.
• Ability to work with diverse student populations and adapt activities.
• Strong communication and class management skills.

Responsibilities

• Independently facilitate K-12 learning experiences (field trips, in-class, virtual).
• Set up and break down materials for programs.
• Engage with students and teachers professionally.
• Manage groups up to 35 students and accompanying adults.
• Assist with maintaining program supplies and inventory.
• Collaborate to develop new teacher resources and program ideas.

Skills

Group management

Classroom facilitation

Virtual program delivery

Spanish language

Team collaboration

Adaptability

Education

One year college coursework in Education

Job description

The part-time Learning Experiences Facilitator is responsible for guiding K-12 students through learner-centered experiences in-person on zoo grounds, in classrooms, and in virtual programs. Under the direction of the Student and Teacher Programs Coordinator, these individuals will seek to improve students’ understanding of environmental concepts and conservation issues, as well as skills in science and critical thinking, through engaging experiences during field trips, in-class programs like, and virtual programs. Additionally, this individual may work with other members of the Student and Teacher Programs team to identify and develop new ideas for student resources, programs, etc. The Learning Experiences Facilitator will receive training to support their professional development in areas such as inquiry-based learning, group/classroom management, and conservation education. Additionally, this person may also have the opportunity to explore other types of conservation education, such as nature play, exhibit chats, etc. This is a part-time position with hours typically scheduled during the traditional school day (Between 8am-3pm).

Essential Job Functions

• Independently facilitate K-12 student learning experiences, such as Zoo Explorers field trip programs on zoo grounds, Chicago Bird Champions programs in school classrooms, or virtual programs conducted online using zoo equipment during normal school hours.
• Set up and break down all materials for programs which they facilitate.
• Work with students of all age levels and abilities and their teachers in a professional and courteous manner.
• Manage groups of up to 35 students and their adults on zoo grounds during busy visitation periods.
• Support the Student Teacher Programs Coordinator with maintaining the organization and inventory of program supplies.
• Collaborate with team members to identify opportunities for new programs and/or teacher resources. With support from Learning team, use these ideas to develop new offerings that can be shared with student and teacher audiences. (This may include program plans, class activities, worksheets, or other activities.)
• Perform various tasks to support the successful implementation of Learning programs as needed. This may include supporting other Learning programs or assisting with materials management.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Ability to work with groups of 35 students on zoo grounds, in schools, and in a virtual environment
• Ability to interact comfortably with culturally and linguistically diverse students of all ages, with varying abilities
• Ability to work in a team and problem solve to ensure timely completion of all projects and programs
• Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, zoo visitors and general public
• Have reliable transportation
• Courteous, friendly demeanor
• Dependable and punctual
• Spanish-speaking abilities are strongly preferred

Education Requirements

• Preferred candidates will have completed at least one year of college coursework in Education or a related field or have relevant experience.

Experience Requirements

• Experience with informal and/or formal education a plus
• Experience working with culturally, linguistically, and developmentally diverse learners strongly preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Capable of moving across zoo grounds, remaining stationary for long periods of time, and working in a variety of weather conditions
• Must be able to move equipment on a rolling cart up to 50 pounds

Additional Requirements

• Available to work occasional weekends, evenings, and special events which may occur outside of regular work schedule.
• Ability to pass a background check is required

Our Commitment Lincoln Park Zoo is committed to an environment that is inclusive and welcoming. We celebrate the diverse qualities, perspectives, values, and experiences of all people. For Wildlife. For All.

Lincoln Park Zoo Benefits

• Free admission to many other Chicago cultural institutions
• Free on-site parking anytime with access to Lincoln Park, Lakeshore Trail, and North Avenue Beach
• Discounts on event tickets (free admission to select events), attractions, dining, and retail at the zoo
• Quarterly staff mingle events and "LPZooU" training and educational sessions about the zoo, wildlife, ecology, and related subjects
• Company contribution to Health Savings Account (Medical PPO only)
• A working environment with green spaces and regularly available visits with wildlife!

Salary: $19.00/hr.