Location: Blue Ridge Wildlife Center
Job Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Executive Director
Direct Reports: Education & Outreach Manager; Education & Outreach Coordinator

Position Summary: 
The Education & Outreach Director will oversee all aspects of the Center’s education and outreach initiatives, utilizing our wildlife ambassadors to engage and inspire audiences. While this role incorporates the ambassadors into programs, their direct care and management are handled by other staff. The Director will design engaging programs, manage a team, and expand the reach of our education efforts to foster a deeper understanding of wildlife and conservation.

Key Responsibilities:
Program Development and Delivery

• Design and adapt lesson plans for various ages and learning styles, integrating wildlife ambassadors to enhance educational impact.
• Deliver interactive and engaging programs to schools, community groups, and other audiences.
• Work collaboratively with animal care staff to ensure wildlife ambassadors are used appropriately and safely in all programs.

Leadership and Team Management

• Supervise and mentor the Education & Outreach team, ensuring consistent, high-quality program delivery.
• Coordinate team schedules to support a variety of education and outreach events.

Resource and Compliance Management

• Maintain the Center’s biofact collection, ensuring proper care and adherence to state and federal regulations.
• Prepare and submit annual reports for state and federal permitting requirements related to educational resources.

Community Engagement and Outreach

• Actively seek opportunities to expand program outreach by building relationships with schools, community organizations, and event organizers.
• Represent the Center at community events, conferences, and networking opportunities to promote its mission.

Visitor Experience Development

• Create immersive, on-site educational experiences in the Center’s lobby, classroom, and wildlife walk areas.
• Develop engaging displays and signage to enhance visitor learning and interaction.

Qualifications:
Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in education. Master’s degree preferred.
• Experience designing and delivering educational programs, preferably in environmental or wildlife education.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent communication and public speaking abilities.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including some evenings and weekends.

Preferred:

• Experience working with live animals in an educational setting (not responsible for care but understanding best practices for their use in programs).
• Familiarity with Virginia’s native wildlife and ecosystems (not required but beneficial).
  
  

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement plan with matching.
• Paid time off and professional development opportunities.

How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references to info@blueridgewildlifectr.org with the subject line “Education & Outreach Director Application.” Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.