Discovery & Learning Officer, LZ (Full-Time / 3 Months Fixed-Term Contract)

About Us:

The Zoological Society of London (ZSL), a charity founded in 1826, is a world-renowned centre of excellence for conservation science and applied conservation. ZSL’s mission is to promote and achieve the worldwide conservation of animals and their habitats. This is realised by carrying out field conservation and research in over 50 countries across the globe and through education and awareness-raising at our two zoos, ZSL London Zoo and ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, inspiring people to take conservation action.

Overview:

ZSL London 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 3rd May to 22nd of July 2016 (12 weeks contract). The Discovery & Learning Officers 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. 

The Discovery & Learning Officers will achieve through the development and delivery of a range of learning activity and events, for a variety of audiences, the principal audience being schools, but also includes FE, HE, adult learners, teachers and education professionals.  The seasonal role will assist with the delivery of education sessions during ZSL London Zoo’s busiest time for school visits. There will be additional project work which will link into the Zoo’s events calendar and involve working with various different departments in ZSL.

Person Specification:

Ideally candidates will have:

• Prior experience of teaching in either a formal or informal education setting.
• In-depth experience of developing high quality, innovative learning activities/events to meet specific learning outcomes and audience needs.
• 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.
• The ability to carry out and demonstrate to others correct animal husbandry and management skills for handling collections.
• 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.

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.

To Apply:

Applicants will need to upload their CV and covering letter (detailing relevant experience and skills). Click the "Apply for this job online" button. If you have any queries regarding this position or when applying through the system please contact Human Resources.

Closing date for applications: 5pm (17:00) Friday 1st April 2016

Interview date – Thursday 7th April 2016 

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