Actor-Educator (seasonal)

The Zoological Society of Milwaukee (ZSM) is seeking a seasonal Actor-Educator to join a fun and talented team of professionals in supporting one of the most cherished community assets – the Milwaukee County Zoo. This position performs outdoor At-Habitat interactions, provides interpretation for backpack puppets, supports Education activities at the Education Station, and contributes feedback on the development of educational materials for the Zoological Society of Milwaukee’s (ZSM) arts education programming and theater (Kohl’s Wild Theater – KWT). A KWT Actor-Educator is expected to deliver content and curricula in a variety of outdoor settings in various locations around the zoo. The role works closely with the Teaching Artist in support of the ZSM’s Mission to educate people about the importance of wildlife and animals and support the Milwaukee County Zoo (MCZ), and the Conservation Education department’s vision to inspire and empower all members of our community to take conservation action. The role will also work closely with the Summer Mainstage Company, and occasionally with the Arts Education Manager.

This seasonal position works 4-6 days/week from April 28 – September 8, with a standard shift being 10:30am-2:30pm. Successful candidates must have the ability to work weekends and pre-designated holiday hours.

Rate of Pay: $15.50

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Execute all At-Habitat content as designed and developed by the Teaching Artist.
• Perform all improvisational material.
• Adhere to all off-book dates as set by the Teaching Artist.
• Incorporate feedback from the Teaching Artist and the Arts Education Manager.
• Continue to develop knowledge of content throughout the summer and share knowledge with Teaching Artist and Acting Company.
• Collaborate with members of the Acting Company during At-Habitat interactions.
• Assist in the administration of evaluations and collection of data for KWT education experiences.
  • Hand out surveys at stage as directed by Arts Education Manager.
  • Fill out scheduled forms as requested by Teaching Artist.
  • Promptly communicate any notable challenges or successes with Teaching Artist, Summer Mainstage Company, or other Arts Education Staff.
• Support set up and break down of materials at the Education Station.
• Report equipment damage to Teaching Artist or KWT Stage Manager.
• Represent the ZSM and MCZ onsite.
• Greet, guide, and create a personal experience for Zoo visitors.
• Project a positive image and energy.
• Follow all uniform guidelines as provided by the ZSM handbook and the Arts Education Manager.
• Maintain basic knowledge of all relevant scientific topics as discussed in KWT programming, and other education programming offered by ZSM.
• Perform all other duties as assigned by the Teaching Artist, Arts Education Manager, and KWT Administrative and Technical Specialist.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Two years of professional, semi-professional, or educational theater experience.
• Experience in a classroom setting is a plus.
• Proven ability to work independently and in teams.
• Demonstration of excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills; Spanish or second language fluency a plus.
• Interest in and experience connecting educational opportunities with broader community engagement efforts.
• Must have reliable transportation to the Milwaukee County Zoo, as well as a valid driver’s license.
• Ability to work weekends and/or pre-designated holiday hours.

The Zoological Society of Milwaukee believes diversity, equity, access, and inclusion (DEAI) are the hallmarks of a robust, vibrant community and have adopted DEAI as foundational to our organizations’ priorities and values. A successful candidate will embrace these values and incorporate a similar commitment within their scope of work to foster an inclusive culture that celebrates diversity, which is demonstrated through actions and words.

The Society provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

The Zoological Society of Milwaukee is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in all its services. If you need accommodation in the application or interview process, please contact our Human Resources department at hr@zoosociety.org.