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John Ball Zoo

Seasonal Zoo Educator

Entry-Level JobVerifiedNo experience needed

Pay: $14/hr

Posted: 6 weeks ago

Location: Grand Rapids, MI (Onsite)

Last Updated: 2 weeks ago

Hours: Full-Time

Expires: 9/26/2026

Career Insights for Adult Basic Education / Literacy Instructor

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What they do

An Adult Basic Education or Literacy Instructor works with adults, including young adults who are out of school, to improve literacy and strengthen basic skills in reading, writing and math. Helps students to learn English or gain a high school diploma or equivalent certificate. Assesses students' educational levels, skills and goals, and differentiates instruction as needed for adults at different levels in one class. May focus on basic skills as needed for a particular occupation, or assist students with developing study skills or job search skills, or help students connect with social services.

$48,431 / year median in Michigan

-1% projected decline

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Job Description

JOB SUMMARY

Join our dynamic School & Youth Education team at John Ball and inspire young explorers to connect with nature, delve into captivating animal habitats, and engage in hands-on activities that ignite curiosity and foster creativity. As a Zoo Educator, you'll facilitate school groups ages K-12 in STEM lessons including Penguineering, Exhibit Design, and provide behind the scenes tours of areas like our Commissary and Aquarium. You'll join our diverse team who collaborate to ensure we're continuously improving programs and aligning with our state science standards. Zoo Educators typically work Monday-Friday, with some evenings and weekends. Schedules vary, but the majority of programming falls between 8:30am-4pm. Hours vary weekly between 15-35 hours.

PAY RATE

: Starting at $14.00 / Hour

WHATS IN IT FOR YOU?

Zoo Membership - during employment ($135 Value) Free Bus Passes Free Lunches Incentive Opportunities for Close Encounters and Behind-The-Scenes Tours Tickets to Special Events Reward-Based Incentives Flexible Scheduling (Student & Retiree Friendly) Personal & Professional Development Opportunities Easy Application!

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Will work in various environments both inside and outside and may occasionally be exposed to inclement weather, temperature and air quality variations. Must be able to work in relative proximity to exotic and domestic animals and tolerate exposure to animal dander, animal wastes and other zoonotic contaminants as well as dust, dirt, pollen and other airborne contaminants. While performing the essential functions of this position the employee may be exposed to moving mechanical hazards; noxious fumes; blood borne pathogens; cleaning compounds; solvents; detergents; noise; and other hazards.

WHAT WE REQUIRE

Must be 18+ to apply Prior experience in education preferred Must pass background check and Central Registry Check Must be available to work weekends and evenings when needed John Ball Zoo is a drug-free workplace under federal regulations. Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.