This position is responsible for creating and implementing curriculum specific to early childhood education. This includes ensuring developmentally appropriate programs and activities. Works in a collaborative, innovative, team environment.

Leadership

• Leads the preschool classroom and works alongside seasonal employees to implement a play-based curriculum during the school year and summer camp.
• Ability to work with docents and adult volunteers to support and enhance on-grounds programming for toddlers and preschoolers.
• Partners with other curriculum team members to align and support programming across various educational initiatives.
• Consistently strives to further the mission of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium: Empowering People.  Saving Wildlife.

Communication

• Collaborates with other departments to enhance early childhood programming through animal encounters, special guests, and unique experiences.
• Utilizes technology to enhance educational programming and support classroom engagement and communication where necessary.
• Maintains clear and consistent communication with parents and caregivers to share updates on student progress and classroom activities.

Program Design

• Designs, develops, and implements curriculum-based early childhood education programs, including Little Explorer’s Base Camp and ZooKids.
• Ensures early childhood activities are developmentally appropriate.
• Implements sustainable practice in daily tasks whenever possible.

Customer Focus

• Maintains confidential records related to program participants and billing.

Leadership

• Ability to maintain a positive attitude in sometimes stressful situations.
• Problem solves and adapts quickly in a variety of settings and situations.

Communication

• Ability to communicate well both verbally and in writing.

Program Design

• Knowledge of education program development.
• Demonstrated creative mindset.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

Customer Focus

• The ability to provide excellent guest service by positively interacting with program participants, families, and guests.

Educational Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required, with the ability to perform essential job functions and learn new skills on the job.
• Minimum one year in relating to and teaching children ages 2-5.
• Knowledge of basic early childhood education principles.
• Annual First Aid training and annual CPR training.

Other requirements

• Flexible schedule with availability for evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Proficiency with relevant software and technology.
• Valid Current driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• Ability to adhere to standard operating procedures including but not limited to safety protocols.
• Ability to pass TB screening, adhere to drug-free workplace policies, and complete FBI/BCI background check.