After-School Animal Science Educator

Job Overview
Are you a creative and dynamic educator who enjoys teaching young children about animals and nature?

If so, The Art Farm NYC on Manhattan’s Upper East Side wants to add you to our team of educators! We are looking to hire a creative, dynamic part-time instructor to take our animal ambassadors out to teach animal science after-school programs throughout Manhattan! Our message is to be kind and gentle to all animals. The person we hire would always demonstrate this message in front of an audience. Our educational programs provide students with calm, positive, enriching hands-on experiences with small animals such as lizards, turtles, insects, doves, chickens, rabbits, hamster, guinea pigs and chinchillas.

Job description:

• Instructor will conduct animal science after-school programs throughout Manhattan.
• As needed, the instructor will also help to show animals to our visitors in our petting zoo.
• The candidate will receive extensive training on handling our animals and will learn how to teach each topic to different ages and abilities.

Instructor will teach ages ranging from 3-10 years old.

This position involves being around animal fur and feathers, sitting on the floor, kneeling, going up and down stairs as well as carrying a heavy bag/carriers with several small animals throughout NYC each day by walking, buses, cabs and subways in all types of weather.

Hours will vary each day but could potentially start at 1:45pm and end around 5:15pm (or earlier). This position involves working in NYC public schools and following the DOE calendar.

Must be on time every day!

Responsibilities

• Assist in the planning and implementation of animal science educational programs and activities.
• Teach 30-90 minute animal science lessons which include handling live animals, leading nature themed activities and crafts.
• Supervise students during various activities, ensuring their safety and engagement.
• Provide support for students with special needs, adapting activities to meet individual requirements.
• Foster a positive learning environment through effective classroom management techniques.
• Collaborate with other staff members and supervisors to create a cohesive educational experience.
• Participate in training sessions and professional development opportunities to enhance skills.

PLEASE APPLY if you have the following qualifications:

• Possess at least an Associate’s degree in early childhood education, elementary education, science and/or have a children’s theater background. Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Experience teaching children of all ages and abilities. Previous experience teaching in a zoo, aquarium, nature center, museum or as a science teacher is helpful
• Comfortable handling a variety of small animals including lizards, turtles, birds, small mammals and invertebrates.
• Comfortable speaking with groups of children (ages 3-10 years old).
• Have the ability to engage children through the use of songs, puppets and creative movement.
• Able to follow strict protocol to ensure the safe interaction between children and animals.
• Able to follow detailed instructions and lesson plans from supervisors.
• Knowledge of classroom management strategies to maintain a productive learning environment.
• Able to navigate the public transportation system in all types of weather

Must be willing to be fingerprinted and have a background check performed.

All Staff MUST be vaccinated.

MUST BE AVAILABLE TO WORK MONDAYS-FRIDAYS FROM FEBRUARY-JUNE IN THE AFTERNOON

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $20.00 – $25.00 per hour