School & Youth Program Manager
the School & Youth Program Manager manages school, youth, and community programming, including establishing, building, and maintaining partnerships, and engaging relevant stakeholders that advance the mission of John Ball Zoo and supports the Zoo’s strategic goals. This includes the development, design, and direction of conservation educational efforts of the Zoo including but not limited to educational experiences and programs for schools at the Zoo, on school grounds, in the community, and all youth programs, such as Zoo Camp and ZooLittles. The School & Youth Program Manager will lead in creating programs and curriculum that aligns with state and local education standards and the Zoo's conservation education goals.
This is a salary year-round position starting between $57,290 - $67,400
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF THE SCHOOL & YOUTH PROGRAM MANAGER AT JBZ
The School & Youth Program Manager provides leadership, direction, and supervision to the School & Youth Program team while fostering strong collaborative relationships across all functional areas of John Ball Zoo. This role supports the professional growth and continued development of direct reports through coaching, performance management, and regular performance evaluations, and administers corrective or disciplinary actions when necessary.
The School & Youth Program Manager designs, develops, implements, evaluates, and continuously improves inclusive educational programs and curricula focused on biology, ecology, conservation, animal husbandry, and other science topics for school-aged audiences. These programs supplement K–12 science instruction and align with local Intermediate School District (ISD) curricula and the Michigan Academic Standards for accredited elementary and secondary education. This position collaborates with K–12 school districts to develop engaging educational experiences that expand awareness and understanding of wildlife conservation, environmental stewardship, ecological concepts, and their impact on the community.
In partnership with the Interpretation and Evaluation Specialist, the School & Youth Program Manager designs, administers, and analyzes program evaluation tools to assess program effectiveness and ensure educational objectives are achieved for targeted audiences. The role also works closely with the Director of Education & Conservation to ensure all youth and camp programming complies with applicable state regulations and partners with the Volunteer Manager to identify volunteer opportunities, develop volunteer training, and implement recognition initiatives that support the Education Department.
QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE SCHOOL & YOUTH PROGRAM MANAGER AT JBZ
- Affinity for the mission and values of John Ball Zoo
- Bachelor’s degree in education, conservation, zoology, or related field
- At least one year of experience working with youth 3-15 years of age, or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience
- Teaching certificate preferred
- Thorough working knowledge of the principles and practices of primary, secondary, adult and pre-primary education, including curriculum design and Michigan Education Standards, along with County specific core curriculum standards
- Thorough working knowledge of the principles and practices of presentation design and delivery for print, electronic and digital media
- Knowledge of safe animal handling and exhibit techniques
- Knowledge of safe and humane practices for restraining and transporting animals
- Knowledge of animal behavior in their natural habitat and in human care
- Ability to work some evening and/or weekend hours, as required
- Flexing work hours may be needed periodically throughout the year
BENEFITS AT JBZ
We offer incredibly competitive benefits. This includes FREE:
- Medical plan option
- Short-term disability
- Long-term disability
- Life Insurance
- Employee Assistance Program
- Dental & Vision for employee & family
- 12 Full weeks of parental leave
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS
We offer generous vacation time, 9 days of personal time, and 11 paid Holidays each year. We offer a 4% match and 3% employer contribution to your 401k, zoo discounts, employee-only zoo experiences, tuition reimbursement, additional medical benefits to meet your and your family's needs, and a FREE Premium Zoo membership for you and your family.
John Ball Zoo is a drug free facility under federal regulations. Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. We invite individuals from all backgrounds, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, hairstyles, or any other characteristic to join our team where diversity is not just acknowledged but celebrated.
