WZ Seasonal Discovery & Learning Officer (Seasonal / Full-Time)

We’re ZSL, an international conservation charity. Our vision is a world where wildlife thrives and we’re working every day to achieve this. From investigating the health threats facing animals, to helping people and wildlife live alongside each other, we are committed to bringing wildlife back from the brink of extinction. Through the work of our pioneering scientists, our dedicated conservationists and our unrivalled animal experts in our two zoos, our purpose is to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wild animals going extinct.

ZSL Whipsnade Zoo’s Discovery and Learning department is looking for a full-time Discovery & Learning Officer to join our team. This is a fixed-term post ideally starting from 18th March until 19th July 2019. The Discovery & Learning Officer will play a key role in delivering ZSL’s learning strategy and in doing so achieve the Society’s mission to raise awareness and inform visitors and other audiences about the natural world and associated conservation issues.

• Delivery of a wide range of innovative programmes within the Discovery and Learning (D&L) department
• Collaboratively work on projects with D&L colleagues  when required
• Present the Discovery & Learning handling animals (e.g. snakes, rats and invertebrates) during sessions
• Support the team in the collection of research data connected to D&L programmes
• Work to improve all aspects of the zoo visit experience for schools and other educational groups
• Undertake such other duties as may be required by the  team leader

Ideally candidates will have:

• In-depth experience of teaching in either a formal or informal education setting.
• Extensive experience of working with children and communicating to a wide range of audiences.
• Previous exposure working in a zoo, aquarium, museum or other animal related environment.
• Experience of developing high quality, innovative learning activities/events to meet specific learning outcomes and audience needs.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• The ability to learn new skills and information within a strict time limit e.g. performance skills, handling different animals, working with different departments in ZSL.
• Full DBS background check will be carried out

Please note: Due to the nature of this role applicants should be aware that they will need to work some evenings, weekends and Bank Holidays. Applicants will also need to be able to work in an outdoor environment and in all weather conditions.

Applicants will need to upload their CV and covering letter (detailing relevant experience and skills, stating why they want the position and including details of availability) and can do this by clicking the "Apply for this job online" button. If you have any queries regarding these positions or when applying through the system please contact Human Resources at wzhr@zsl.org.

Closing date for applications: Midday Thursday 14th February 2019

The Zoological Society of London is a charity registered in England and Wales: no. 208728.