Interpretation Manager

Are you a dynamic education leader with a passion for creating inspiring guest experiences? Join our team!

The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is hiring an Interpretation Manager to oversee all aspects of the interpretive education program, engaging our audiences and inspiring them to conserve nature for future generations. This position is an active member of the Conservation Education Department management team and works cross-departmentally to plan and execute interpretive education programs. The Interpretation Manager trains and supervises seasonal “Zooterpreter” staff, supports the signage copywriting and the exhibit messaging strategy during exhibit design, coordinates and delivers theme day celebrations, and plays an active role in Zoo-wide exhibit and strategic planning processes.

Why join the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium?

The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to connect people to wildlife, inspiring our communities to conserve nature for future generations. Driven by a commitment to local and global conservation, our incredible staff use their talents to provide expert animal care, curate beautiful habitats, maintain safe and engaging facilities, deliver family-friendly and educational experiences for our guests, and so much more.

Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), Zoological Association of America (ZAA), American Humane, and the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks & Aquariums (AMMPA).

Benefits & Perks

This is a full-time, salaried position. Some benefits and employee perks include: Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance, optional FSA, generous paid time off (PTO), 403(b) Retirement plan, complimentary Zoo membership, reciprocal benefits to other local cultural attractions, and many more!

Inclusion & Accessibility

The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium values a diverse workplace where team members represent a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, and veterans to apply.

The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will not be discriminated against because of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, citizenship status, disability, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, medical condition, or any protected category prohibited by local, state, or federal laws. If you need to request any accommodations for the interview or hiring process, please let the Human Resources team (HR) know. HR can be contacted at View phone number on aiapply.co

Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium

Position Description

Position Title: Interpretation Manager Job Code:

Department: Conservation Education Job Grade:

Reports To: VP of Conservation, Education & Community Engagement FLSA Status: Salaried, Exempt

Purpose:

The Interpretation Manager oversees all aspects of educational interpretation at the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium to engage our audiences and inspire them to be an active part of our conservation community. This position is an active member of the Conservation Education Department management team and is responsible for the development, delivery, budgeting, coordination, monitoring, management, supervision, and evaluation of all interpretative education programs at the Zoo.

Essential Job Functions:

Interpretive Program Management & Delivery

• Develop and drive onsite interpretative education opportunities showcasing the Zoo’s animals, habitats, and conservation programs to curate conservation-based guest experiences across the Zoo, including signage, touch tables, amphitheater shows, visitor activities, volunteer activation, and more.
• In collaboration with the Creative Department, develop, maintain, and refresh interpretive media onsite including graphics and signage, multimedia, props and dressings, soundscapes and more to maximize visitor conservation impact, our learning goals, and visitor experience throughout the Zoo.
• Develop and refine a Zoo-wide interpretive framework, as well as key narratives and messages for the Zoo’s existing and upcoming exhibits in collaboration with Education leadership.
• Develop and continuously refine a Zoo-wide presentation toolkit based on best practices in interpretive education. Ensure guest interpretation and engagement by Zoo staff and volunteers is regularly refreshed and supported through training that aligns with these best practices.
• Continually evaluate visitor experience using a range of methods including timing and tracking, interviews, and surveys. Improve existing programs and methods of public engagement based on evaluation results and implement innovative programs and methods to advance the mission of the Zoo.
• Actively identify and drive projects that improve the guest experience and make all interpretative opportunities accessible to all audiences.
• Attend conferences, webinars, and additional professional development opportunities to learn, disseminate, and implement evidence-based best practices in interpretation, education, science literacy, informal program development and evaluation, conservation behavior change, and more.
• Network and stay in communication with other professionals in the field, including actively participating with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), National Association for Interpretation (NAI), and other professional associations.
• Facilitate the presentation of animal ambassadors of diverse taxa following specified animal handling and training protocols and teach education programs across the department as needed.

Budgeting & Department Administration

• Monitor and promote collaboration and scheduling/delivery of interpretive programs and experiences.
• Develop operational and revenue goals and ensure designated programs reach or exceed these goals.
• Help prepare and oversee annual budgets for interpretive programs.
• Work within the established budget to purchase equipment and supplies to support onsite interpretation.
• In collaboration with Education Department managers, create and manage staff schedules to meet all departmental needs.

Team Management & Training

• Interview, hire, supervise, train, and lead full and part-team members, seasonal staff, and interns.
• Work collaboratively with Animal Care departments to train and manage Kids Kingdom seasonal Zooterpreters to engage guests in public animal contact areas while maintaining a high standard of animal welfare.
• Develop and mentor direct reports by providing regular performance feedback and professional development through regular individual and team meetings, coaching, continuing education opportunities, and annual reviews.
• Work proactively to advance a team spirit and positive work climate among Zoo employees, closely monitors the morale of staff and takes appropriate action to resolve issues.
• Act as the secondary point of contact for the volunteer program (Zoo Teens, Docent Volunteers) as needed.

Department Leadership

• Model thoughtful, ethical, empathetic leadership in all internal and external collaborations and engagements.
• Collaborate cross-departmentally to coordinate, develop, plan and implement new programs and optimize departmental operations.
• Works closely with other Department managers and leadership to develop and implement education strategic plans that meet the department’s goals.
• Respond to internal and external communications in a timely and professional manner.
• Serve as Education Manager on Duty as scheduled.

Other Functions:

1. Performs all other duties as assigned and directed.

Performance Factors:

1. Attendance and Dependability: The employee can be depended on to report to work at the scheduled time and is seldom absent from work. Employee can be depended upon to complete work in a timely, accurate and thorough manner and is conscientious about assignments.
2. Communication and Contact: The employee communicates effectively both verbally and in writing with superiors, colleagues, and individuals inside and outside the Zoological Society.

1. Relationships with Others: The employee works effectively and relates well with others including superiors, colleagues, and individuals inside and outside the Zoological Society. Exhibits a professional manner in dealing with others, and works to maintain constructive working relationships.
2. Provides excellent customer service in the areas of guest relations and park beautification:
   • Answers visitor inquiries or finds someone who can;
   • Is knowledgeable of location of exhibits, restrooms, concessions, rentals, etc.
   • Disposes of litter and waste throughout the park and zoo facilities.

Education/Experience/Knowledge/Skills:

• B.S. or B.A. degree in Education, Zoology, Biology, or a related field with a minimum of five years working in a zoological park, aquarium, museum, or other informal education setting; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.
• Strong knowledge of field conservation, ecology, and zoology is required.
• Strong organizational, time management, classroom management, and guest engagement skills are required, along with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated proficiency with computer software programs, presentation skills, writing for the public, and attention to detail are required, and experience writing and designing educational signage copy preferred.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with stakeholders, including employees and the general public.
• Ability to speak and write clearly, concisely, and persuasively using correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation with the ability to communicate one-on-one or in group settings.
• Ability to perform work with a high degree of accuracy and organization.
• Familiarity with AZA education standards and National Association of Interpretation standards and practices.
• Experience with Interpretive Education planning and departmental strategic planning preferred.
• Must have the proven ability to work independently and with a team to create and deliver public programing and guest engagement while fostering a positive and collaborative team environment.
• Experience working with Animal Ambassadors and in environmental education preferred.
• Mature professional attitude and considerable discretion, including ability to manage confidential information.
• Ability to perform with considerable independence and initiative.
• Department of Human Services Child Abuse History Clearance, Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Records Check, and Federal Criminal History Record Information are required, along with a valid PA driver’s license.

Physical Requirements:

Position works in an office setting, but is primarily located outdoors, especially in the peak season. Position is physical and requires the ability to walk, stand, stoop, bend, squat, push, pull, carry and lift up to 50 lbs. This list is not inclusive. Position required to work evenings, weekends and holidays and indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions. Must possess a valid driver’s license.

This is a full-time, salaried position that works Sunday through Thursday, with occasional evenings, weekends, and holidays required to support programs, events, and organizational needs.