Inspire a love and curiosity for conservation in the next generation at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo and help curate incredible school experiences at one of Calgary’s most unique locations! The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo's Conservation Education team is seeking a permanent full-time Coordinator, School Programs who will create a menu of curricular-connected, conservation education programs for grades K-12, for onsite, in-school and virtual delivery.
This role supports teachers' convention workshop development, integrating practicum students for program observations and developing custom offerings. Regular tasks include budget monitoring, overseeing teaching resources and applicable satellite biofact collections. The Coordinator ensures outcomes-based program goals are met, supports the creation and implementation of evaluation instruments, and contributes to data analysis and reporting. Day-to-day support of front-line staff is required, including formal and informal performance evaluation, onboarding and task delegation. Delivery of programs as needed is expected.
Our Purpose | We act for wildlife; saving species and inspiring people to join us.
Our Core Values | Drive impact, nurture connection, cultivate hope, and be bold.
What you will do:
Create strategic program menu and maintain delivery standards based on research, client feedback, curriculum changes and department goals
Ensure outcomes-based programming, curriculum is integrated and reported accurately
Support recruitment, training and evaluation of staff, formally and informally
Delivery of programs as needed
Ensure conservation science updates are incorporated into all school programs
Liaise with resource coordinator to ensure effective use of biofacts in all programs
Support the organization and delivery of annual teachers' convention
Support the hosting of pre-service teacher practicums through program observation coordination and training
Budget monitoring for inventory and teaching resources
Client survey monitoring, content adjustments as needed
Ensure sponsorship budget and deliverables are tracked, meeting annual reporting requirements and liaising with funders as needed
Provide content and program calendar updates to administration team on agreed upon schedules
Work with colleagues on animal experience menu for different program streams, ensure team needs and goals are met
What you will bring:
At least 2 years of experience in formal or non-formal education environments is required
A bachelor’s degree in Education, Zoology, Biology, or Environmental Studies is preferred
Knowledge of and experience with environmental education, conservation education and experiential learning is an asset
A valid Standard First Aid Certification is required
Knowledge of Alberta curriculum and current trends and practices in education
A keen interest in conservation and the natural world is essential
Experience in the areas of coaching and performance appraisal
Experience with technology and alternative delivery options is an asset
Innovative and resourceful with exceptional written and verbal communications skills
Additional Requirements:
This position will require submission of a Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search
Working Conditions:
Ability to work weekends, evenings and irregular shifts
Long periods of time on feet
Good on-site mobility
Ability to lift 30 lbs, pull a wagon of resources around zoo grounds
The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is an outdoor facility and all staff working at the zoo must be comfortable working in a large variety of outdoor conditions. The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo follows the advice of Environment Canada when responding to temperature and air quality issues.
What the Zoo Offers:
Competitive compensation, vacation and flex days entitlement
Flexible benefits plan, including a health spending account
Employer matching RRSP program
Discounts on food, beverage, and merchandise
Participation in the Staff Pass Benefit plan
A fun, rewarding work environment and the opportunity to work in a park full of wild animals
Are you ready to join one of Canada’s leaders in wildlife conservation? If this position suits your skills, experience and personal attributes, we want to talk to you.
Apply by doing the following:
Watch this video about the conservation work being done at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8J1VH1MBXm0)
Submit your resume with a cover letter via our online application system.
Fill in the Application questions:
If hired, when would you be available to start?
What are your salary expectations for the role
Do you have any availability restrictions, upcoming time off, or other scheduling considerations we should know about?
Do you currently have a valid First Aid Certification?
Applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada.
If this position is a fit for you, we encourage you to apply with a resume and cover letter online by September 5, 2025 at 4pm MST.
The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo strives to cultivate a workplace in which everyone feels welcome and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. As a conservation organization, we respect and value the diversity of all life and come together as individuals and teammates to achieve the organization’s mission and vision. We recognize the value of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and work to advance our culture to ensure diverse viewpoints are heard and everyone has an equitable chance to succeed and thrive.
All candidates are thanked for their applications and advised that only those selected for interviews will be contacted.
