Americorps

The Cincinnati Zoo offers only 1 cohort of AmeriCorps Members each year. Members will serve a 12-month (1 year) service term from October – September.

**The 2025-2026 cohort is already in service – Please check the applications tab to find out more about the next AmeriCorps service opportunity**

The 2026-2027 AmeriCorps Session:

Start Date: 10/5/2026

Ende Date: 9/30/2027

The Cincinnati Zoo Unto Others program is a 12-month (1 yearlong) service commitment. The positions typically follow a full-time workweek pattern: 4-5 consecutive days per week, ~8 hours per day. The Cincinnati Zoo is open 363 days a year, so your service may include weekends and holidays. Each AmeriCorps department supervisor sets the final schedule.

All AmeriCorps members are expected to commit to the full AmeriCorps Service Year from start to finish. There is time built into the service year for vacation time and other PTO requests. If you do not complete the service year in full, you will not qualify for, and benefits will be terminated based on your exit date from the program.  See the benefits tab.

Living Stipend: AmeriCorps members will receive a $30,000 Living Stipend over the course of the service term. The living stipend will be paid on a bi-weekly basis.

Health Care Coverage: Members serving in the Cincinnati Zoo Unto Others AmeriCorps Program qualify for health insurance, covered by Cincinnati Zoo through AmeriCorps’s insurance provider. More information on those plans can be provided upon interviews or receiving an offer letter.

Child Care: Member can apply for and receive childcare assistance while serving as an active member in an AmeriCorps Program.

SNAP: Member can apply for SNAP benefits to assist throughout their service while an active AmeriCorps member.

Segal Education Award: Upon success completion of your AmeriCorps program members will receive a Segal Education Award **amount dependent upon Pell Award**

Applications Open: March 1^st , 2026

Applications Close: June 1^st 2026 **or when filled.

To apply for an AmeriCorps position, qualified applicants can apply via our online application. Be prepared to provide the following documents and information with your application.

• Resume & Cover Letter (PDF format required)
• Contact information for one professional reference

**please note: during the application process, supervisors check applications on different timelines. You will receive correspondence if you are not selected and be contacted if they want to move forward with the interview process. Please minimize reaching out, unless you have specific requests or questions about the program.

To be a qualified applicant these are the minimum requirements for AmeriCorps:

1. U.S. Citizen
2. Age
3. HS Diploma or will by service start date

Qualifications for Cincinnati Zoo Unto Others Program:

1. Valid Driver’s License
2. Ability to travel locally when needed
3. To serve as an AmeriCorps member, individuals must be a citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States.
4. Ability to stand, walk, climb and grasp objects
5. Must be able to lift & move 50 pounds without mechanical assistance
6. Appointment is conditional upon passing a pre-start drug screen, providing a negative TB test, providing proof of full vaccination status as defined by the CDC, and providing information to establish eligibility and complete a National Criminal History Check.

**please check individual position description for more department specific qualifications**

About the Position

This position will focus specifically on building a foundational zoo-wide animal behavior research program to promote an evidence-based approach to animal care and management.

Number of Position(s): 1

Responsibilities

Assist with standardizing processes of animal behavioral monitoring

• Assist with writing and coordinating animal behavior research plans

• Assist with analyzing and reporting behavioral data, through the use of Microsoft Office programs as well as ZooMonitor©

• Assist with onboarding and training of Animal Excellence Research Interns and volunteers

• Assist with brainstorming and writing animal research content for Marketing/PR department

• Provide support as needed to larger department of Animal Excellence

• Participate in a mid-year and end of year performance review process with supervisors

• Complete bi-weekly timesheets to accurately report hours served

• Participate in professional development workshops through AmeriCorps In-Service days, service projects, and training opportunities

Qualifications and Experience 

Skills

• Strong critical thinking skills, with an ability to independently problem solve and think strategically

• Strong communication and public speaking skills

• Excellent organizational skills with ability to meet deadlines and independently manage multiple tasks and timely follow-through, with flexibility to adapt to changing needs and to work effectively with minimal supervision

• Willingness to seek and use available resources to support problem solving efforts

• Ability to independently problem solve and think strategically

• Ability to work and build relationships with people from diverse backgrounds
• Attention to detail

Additional Qualifications 

• Recent college graduate with a degree in an animal-related field. Successful completion of coursework related to animal behavior is preferred.

• Proven experience participating in the research process (e.g., study design, data collection, analysis), with animal behavior research is a plus.

• Demonstrated professionalism, communication skills (both written and oral), critical thinking ability, and attention to detail.

• Ability to use basic and preferably advanced functions of Windows operating systems, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, Publisher) the internet and web-based forms
• Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed

About the Position

This position will work closely with Zoo managers and program participants in three Conservation Impact Department programs- Adult Volunteers, ZooTeens and Group Volunteers. The member will help 1) expand capacity through operational support of programs, projects and events at the Zoo and in the community, and 2) help develop efficient, effective training and evaluation materials and methods to increase program participants’ and visitors’ awareness and participation in our conservation programs and initiatives.

Number of Position(s): 1

Responsibilities 

• Assists with training volunteers to increase their communication, confidence, and leadership skills

• Schedules, supervises and leads on and off grounds activities for volunteers and ZooTeens

• Assists with recruitment and onboarding volunteers and ZooTeens

• Coordinates logistics and communications related to participation in community conservation

• Create and distribute volunteer Newsletters

• Attend Volunteer roll calls and meetings

• Serve as additional contact for volunteers, answering questions regarding activities

• Collaborate with Zoo staff to review, revise, and update interpretive messaging on Zoo signage/exhibits and website to effectively incorporate and reflect current conservation messaging

• Collaborate across multiple departments, including but not limited to Graphics, Horticulture, Animals, and Facilities to plan and create interpretive content for habitats and interpreters

• Collaborate with Zoo staff to promote the Zoo’s conservation efforts internally and externally using online platforms (including blog postings)

• Regularly review the Interpretive Guides in order to maintain accuracy and integrate conservation partnerships and projects that reflect the Zoo’s comprehensive in-site and ex-situ initiatives.

• Evaluate, assess and report program goals and outcomes

• Participate in a mid-year and end of year performance review process with supervisor

• Complete bi-weekly timesheets to accurately report hours served

  Qualifications and Experience 

Skills

• Strong writing skills

• Strong communication and public speaking skills

• Excellent organizational skills with ability to meet deadlines and independently manage multiple tasks and timely follow-through, with flexibility to adapt to changing needs and to work effectively with minimal supervision

• Willingness to seek and use available resources to support problem solving efforts

• Ability to independently problem solve and think strategically

• Ability to work and build relationships with people from diverse backgrounds

• Attention to detail

Additional Qualifications 

• High school diploma or equivalent

• A sincere love of wildlife and nature, and desire to share that interest with others

• Knowledge of/ education in wildlife ecology, environmental science, biology, zoology or a related natural science

• Knowledge of/ education in/ experience in formal education, or environmental education, conservation education, or a related non-formal education field

• Interest in impact research and social science

• Desire and interest in working with people of all ages and backgrounds; demonstrated patience, rapport with, and understanding of underserved audiences.

• Ability to use basic and some advanced functions of Windows operating systems, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, Publisher) the internet and web-based forms

• Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed

About the Position

This position will focus specifically on understanding, researching, and communicating activities and results of the Imperiled Cat Signature Conservation Project at the Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW) at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden.

Number of Position(s): 1

Responsibilities 

• Provide support for domestic cat veterinary care, including restraining cats, sterilizing instruments, preparing surgical packs, administering medications, and assisting during medical procedures and surgeries

• Oversee the intake, processing, and organization of fecal, blood, and saliva samples

• Learn and apply operant conditioning techniques to train domestic cats for medical handling

• Support ongoing research projects in cat welfare and reproduction by learning techniques such as hormone extraction, video scoring, semen collection/evaluation/cryopreservation, fertility analysis, scientific communication, experimental design, and scientific writing

• Train, mentor, and assist volunteers, students, and interns

• Evaluate, track, and report on the progress of program goals and outcomes

• Measure impact of and goals for program year

• Participate in mid-year and end-of-year performance evaluations

• Participate in professional development through in-service days, service projects, and training opportunities

Qualifications and Experience

Skills

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Excellent organizational skills with ability to meet deadlines and independently manage multiple tasks and timely follow-through, with flexibility to adapt to changing needs and to work effectively with minimal supervision

• Ability to understand and interpret animal body language in order to work safely with live animals

• Comfortable handling biological samples, including fecal samples, blood, saliva, and sperm

• Ability to independently problem solve and think strategically

• Ability to work and build relationships with people from diverse backgrounds

• Strong attention to detail

Additional Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s Degree required, preferably in animal science, biology, zoology, or a related field

• Possess a strong understanding of basic animal research and study design principles.

• Experience handling cats or other small mammals or a strong desire and willingness to learn

• Willingness to expand areas of expertise and learn new skills to meet the challenges of working in a fast-paced research environment

• Desire and interest in working with people of all ages and backgrounds; demonstrated patience, rapport with, and understanding of underserved audiences

• Ability to use basic and some advanced functions of Windows operating systems, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, Publisher) the internet and web-based forms

About the Position

This position will focus specifically on understanding, researching, and communicating activities and results of the Polar Bear Signature Conservation Project at the Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW) at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden.

Number of Position(s): 1

Responsibilities 

General laboratory upkeep, including, but not limited to: Washing dishware, Maintaining and sterilizing equipment, Preparing media

• Process samples (fecal, blood, saliva) from a variety of species, with a focus on bears

• Learn techniques utilized in wildlife research, which may include (but not limited to): hormone extraction, hormone quantification, biomarker analyses, semen collection/ evaluation/ cryopreservation, fertility analyses, experimental design, scientific writing

• Data input and analyses

• Train, mentor, and assist volunteers, students, scholars, and interns

• Convey scientific information to visitors and the public

• Evaluate, assess and report program goals and outcomes

• Measure impact of and goals for program year

• Participate in mid-year and end-of year performance process

• Participate in professional development workshops through in-service days, service projects and training opportunities.

 Qualifications and Experience 

Skills

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Excellent organizational skills

• Ability to meet deadlines, prioritize tasks, and manage time effectively

• Flexibility to adapt to changing needs

• Comfortable working with biological samples, such as feces, urine, saliva, and blood, on a regular basis

• Willingness to seek and use available resources to support problem solving efforts

• Ability to independently problem solve and think strategically and critically

• Self-motivated and results-driven

• Ability to work and build relationships with people from diverse backgrounds

• Attention to detail

• Commitment to teamwork

Additional Qualifications 

• A Bachelor’s degree is required, preferably in animal science, biology, zoology, or a related field

• Research experience (outside of coursework) and a demonstrated understanding of the scientific method

• Desire and interest in working with people of all ages and backgrounds; demonstrated patience, rapport with, and understanding of underserved audiences.

• Ability to use basic and some advanced functions of Windows operating systems, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, Publisher) the internet and web-based forms

• Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed

About the Position 

This position will focus specifically on supporting CREW scientists dedicated to studying rhinoceros species and other endangered species. Service members will be trained in general laboratory skills and will participate in and may contribute to one or more research projects (learn more about CREW’s research). The individual’s training program will be tailored based on the selected candidate’s skillset and aptitude, as well as current needs of staff scientists.

What is AIRS?

American Institute of Rhinoceros Science – a model for saving species with science ex situ

AIRS is a new, big initiative, taking rhino science and collaboration to a new level while helping to save rhinos from extinction. AIRS is led by a coalition of expert rhino scientists and is founded on the partnership between CREW (with its renowned Signature Rhino Conservation Project), and The Wilds (one of the most successful rhino breeding and management facilities). This large coalition will employ a multidisciplinary strategy to overcome the four greatest scientific challenges to sustaining rhino populations within our nation’s zoos. The team recognizes that the scientific challenges are inter-related and studying one of them in isolation will fall short of what could be achieved by tackling all of them together. In short, the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. AIRS will consist of a team with individuals in all stages of their training/careers. The project will produce science-based, affordable and feasible management recommendations for monitoring and controlling physical condition, iron overload, and reproduction, while ensuring optimal rhino wellbeing. This program will set a precedent for saving species with science in zoos, a model with value for all species at risk in the wild.

Number of Position(s): 1

Responsibilities

• General laboratory upkeep, including, but not limited to:

• Washing dishware

• Maintaining and sterilizing equipment

• Preparing media

• Processing fecal samples from a variety of species

• Coordinate, train and manage volunteers.

• Train and manage quarterly zoo academy student.

• Evaluate sperm sample slides.

• There may be some work with other species as well (felids and polar bears), but the internship will focus on CREW’s AIRS research.

• Assist in sample management and handling

• Evaluate, assess, and report program goals and outcomes.

• Measure impact of and goals for the program year.

• Participate in a mid-year and end-of-year performance review process with supervisors.

• Complete bi-weekly timesheets to accurately report hours served.

• Participate in professional development workshops through AmeriCorps in-service days, service projects and training opportunities.

Qualifications and Experience

Skills

• Eager to learn with an outstanding work ethic

• Extremely detail-oriented and organized

• Able to multi-task and anticipate needs

• Comfortable working with biological (fecal, serum, saliva, semen etc) samples

• Prompt and reliable in the areas of attendance and performance

• Able to work well with CREW scientists, zoo staff, volunteers, and the general public.

Additional Qualifications 

• Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in biology/ecology/zoology or related field required

• Lab experience is preferable, but not required

• A sincere love of wildlife and nature, and desire to have a career in a related field

• Knowledge of/education in wildlife ecology, environmental science, biology, zoology or a related natural science

• Ability to use basic and some advanced functions of Windows operating systems, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, Publisher) the internet and web-based forms

About the Position

This position will focus specifically on working with the CREW Plant Research Division to study and support the conservation of rare & threatened exceptional plant species. Service members will be trained in general laboratory skills and will participate in and may contribute to one or more research projects (learn more about CREW’s research). The individual’s training program will be tailored based on the selected candidate’s skillset and aptitude, as well as current needs of staff scientists.

What are exceptional plants?  

Exceptional plant species are species which cannot be seed banked using conventional seed banking techniques. A species may be considered exceptional for a variety of reasons: some species don’t produce seeds, others have very low seed viability, and others produce seeds that can’t survive the drying or freezing steps of conventional banking. These species must be banked using alternative banking technologies like cryopreservation, and are often propagated using tissue culture. The CREW Plant Research Division studies how best to propagate, store, and support the conservation of these species.

Number of Position(s): 1

Responsibilities

Primary service goals include:  

• Assist with the Exceptional Plant Conservation Cryobiotechnology project:

• Sterilize and process tissues collected from the field/partners to initiate them into tissue culture in the lab

• Regular observational data collection and photo documentation of plant cultures

• Data entry and analysis

• Growing and maintaining plants transitioning from test tubes to outdoors and/or shipping, including but not limited to:

• Routinely checking indoor growing spaces & greenhouse

• Watering, weeding, pruning, repotting, etc.

• Washing pots & terrariums

• Assisting with volunteer instruction for greenhouse duties

• General laboratory and greenhouse upkeep, including, but not limited to:

• Regular upkeep and subculturing of the CREW plant tissue culture collection

• Preparing media

• Washing dishware

• Maintaining and sterilizing equipment

• Evaluate, assess, and report program goals and outcomes.

• Measure impact of and goals for the program year.

• Participate in a mid-year and end-of-year performance review process with supervisors.

• Complete bi-weekly timesheets to accurately report hours served.

• Participate in professional development workshops through AmeriCorps in-service days, service projects and training opportunities.

Secondary service goals include:  

• Manage the CREW Plant Lab Zoo Academy program

• Work directly with high school students from Cincinnati Public Schools’ Zoo Academy located on zoo grounds

• Act as a mentor for Zoo Academy students

• Train Zoo Academy students in lab technique and manage their projects

• Prepare and facilitate educational outreach projects for the CREW Plant Lab

• Prepare educational materials for outreach

• Preparation of educational social media posts to increase awareness of CREW plant conservation activities

• Preparation of educational materials and videos for the Exceptional Plant Conservation Network (more information)

Qualifications and Experience 

Skills

• Strong interest in plant conservation required

• Eager to learn with an outstanding work ethic

• Extremely detail-oriented and organized

• Able to multi-task and anticipate needs

• Capable of working independently

• Prompt and reliable in the areas of attendance, performance, and communication

Additional Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree preferred

• Background in biological sciences or horticulture preferred

• Lab experience is preferable, but not required

• A sincere love of plants, and desire to have a career in a related field

• Occasional availability on evenings and weekends for events

• Ability to use basic and some advanced functions of Windows operating systems, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, Publisher) the internet and

About the Position 

Members serving in the Education Department will work within a variety of programming including: Zoo Troop, camps, schools programming, off grounds outreach in the community, and programs for participants with developmental disabilities.

Number of Position(s): 6

Responsibilities

• Training on and handling live education animal ambassadors, employing the highest care and presentation standards.

• Providing STEM education to economically disadvantaged PreK-12^th grade students to improve science literacy and academic engagement.

• Serving both school and public education audiences through the recruitment, preparation, instruction, development and maintenance of curriculum, and evaluation of educational programming offered through the Living Classroom Education Access Fund (LCEAF).  

• Teaching programs with children with varying developmental and physical disabilities.

• Assisting with teacher professional development, program instruction, and evaluation.

• Collaborating with a local public school to offer urban learning garden programs in-school and after-school.

• Supporting community-based conservation service opportunities at the Zoo and at surrounding partner sites.

• Developing and promoting inclusive practices and resources across all Zoo Education programming.

• Mentoring high school students (Zoo Academy students and ZooTeens) in conservation and environmental education.

• Collecting and analyzing data collected from program participants.

Qualifications and Experience 

Skills

• Strong writing skills

• Strong communication and public speaking skills

• Strong customer service skills

• Excellent organizational skills with ability to meet deadlines and independently manage multiple tasks and timely follow-through, with flexibility to adapt to changing needs and to work effectively with minimal supervision

• Willingness to seek and use available resources to support problem-solving efforts

• Ability to independently problem solve and think strategically

• Ability to work and build relationships with people from diverse backgrounds

• Ability to work collaboratively with Education team members

• Ability to prioritize time and responsibilities, including demonstrating good time management both in the office and during programs

Additional Qualifications 

• A sincere commitment to wildlife and nature conservation, and desire to share that value with others

• Knowledge of informal or formal science education, wildlife ecology, environmental science, conservation education, biology, zoology and/or a related field

• Knowledge of/education in outdoor education and/or urban gardens preferred but not required.

• Experience handling birds, small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates or a strong desire and willingness to learn.

• Desire and interest in working with people of all ages and backgrounds; demonstrated patience, rapport with, and understanding of underserved audiences.

• Ability to use basic and some advanced functions of Windows operating systems, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, Publisher, Teams), web-based forms, and virtual learning platforms (Zoom, Google Meet, etc.).

• Ability to work evenings and weekends

About the Position 

This position will focus specifically on wildlife conservation impact research and communications testing for zoo visitors and target communities to achieve our vision of facilitating a brighter future for wildlife and people through coexistence research. The goals are to innovate, evaluate, and improve our effectiveness in supporting both wildlife and people by focusing on increasing our 1) impact toward the threats to wildlife and causes for conflict with humans, 2) mobilization of our Zoo staff, audiences, and target communities through social science and behavior change research, and 3) elevation of our leadership in conservation and the zoo and aquarium field. An AmeriCorps service member’s support to develop innovative projects with our field conservation partners and evaluate their effectiveness by developing strong scientific skills will enhance our ability to reach these goals.

Number of Position(s): 2

Responsibilities 

• Complete at least one round of wildlife conservation impact research from design to implementation and evaluation:

• Select 1 focal project from our signature conservation impact project list

• Conduct research into literature and current threats to the species and its habitat

• Design coexistence theory of change and evaluation framework

• Design project methods for implementation and monitoring data collection

• Data entry and statistical analysis

• Write a research manuscript with the Conservation Impact team for scientific publication

• Write report for Cincinnati Zoo and our partners about findings, best practices, and future research

• Research best practices in effectively creating and delivering conservation messaging to inspire behavior change and mobilize action

• Create storytelling material in collaboration with other teams across Cincinnati Zoo and coexistence partners to share with a variety of audiences

• Develop & evaluate novel approaches, strategies, and outlets for communicating conservation messages to Zoo visitors, staff, and target communities with our global conservation field partners

• Work with Zoo staff to review, revise, and update conservation impact talking points in the Cincinnati Zoo website, messages for all Cincinnati Zoo staff, interpretation plans, signage, and stories to more effectively incorporate conservation messaging

• Create inclusive community engagement events with collaborators and partners to support and mobilize audiences to take conservation action

• Work with field conservation partners and Zoo staff to collect reactions to and monitor target audience behavior to assess message effectiveness and conservation impact

• Support the Conservation Impact team’s achievement of the Cincinnati Zoo’s 4-part mission by:

1. Creating adventure: Participate in data collection and communication about conservation projects led by Cincinnati Zoo and global partners.
2. Conveying knowledge: Inspire Zoo visitors and community members with wildlife stories to mobilize conservation action.
3. Conserving nature: Implement and evaluate methods to promote conservation actions to promote impact and coexistence.
4. Serving the community: Conduct social science to support community needs and promote wildlife coexistence in healthy landscapes.

• Evaluate, assess, and report program goals and outcomes.

• Measure impact of and goals for the program year.

• Participate in a mid-year and end of year performance review process with supervisors.

• Complete bi-weekly timesheets to accurately report hours served.

• Participate in professional development workshops through AmeriCorps in-service days, service projects and training opportunities.

Qualifications and Experience 

Skills

• Strong writing skills

• Strong data collection skills

• Strong communication and public speaking skills

• Excellent organizational skills with ability to meet deadlines and independently manage multiple tasks and timely follow-through, with flexibility to adapt to changing needs and to work effectively with minimal supervision

• Willingness to seek and use available resources to support problem solving efforts

• Ability to independently problem solve and think strategically

• Ability to work and build relationships with people from different backgrounds

• Attention to detail

• Commitment to teamwork

Additional Qualifications 

• A sincere love of wildlife and nature, and desire to share that interest with others

• Knowledge of/ education in wildlife ecology, environmental science, biology, zoology or a related natural science

• Knowledge of/ education in/ experience in formal education, or environmental education, conservation education, or a related non-formal education field

• Interest in impact research and social science

• Desire and interest in working with people of all ages and backgrounds; demonstrated patience, rapport with, and understanding of underserved audiences.

• Ability to use basic and some advanced functions of Windows operating systems, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, Publisher) the internet and web-based forms

• Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed

About the Position 

The AmeriCorps Member in this position would support our goal of serving our community by contributing to the long-term success of zoo-affiliated community garden spaces.  In addition to assisting with the creation of long-term garden maintenance plans for existing gardens, the member in this role will have the opportunity to connect community members to resources, provide educational opportunities, assist with the on-going maintenance of garden sites, and learn about the process of community revitalization.  This position will not only help to enhance the aesthetics of our community but also build upon the relationship that we are cultivating with the community of Avondale.

The primary focus of this service position is to assist in ensuring the on-going value of zoo-affiliated garden spaces within the community through the evaluation of previous garden designs and plant selections as well as the creation of long-term garden maintenance plans for these sites. The service member’s role could expand to include hands-on horticultural trainings/demonstrations for community members in community garden spaces, coordinating/leading volunteer groups in garden installation and upkeep, facilitating community relationships, assisting Horticulture Department with the planning & execution of REDS Community Project goals, and designs for future garden installations within the community.

The AmeriCorps Member would support the mission and goals of our program and the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden by assisting to ensure the long-term value of zoo-affiliated garden landscapes. The service member’s contributions would impact overall aesthetics of the community and serve to promote and build upon the positive relationship that our organization strives to create. It would support our mission of inspiring people with plants every day and contribute to the five pillars of the Botanical Garden and Cincinnati Zoo:

• Collection – contribute toward the installation and maintenance of plants that provide a variety of benefits to community

• Education – providing passive education opportunities through plant labeling and active educational opportunities through trainings/hands on horticultural demonstrations for the community

• Research – evaluating current community garden designs and plant selections as well as researching and creating designs for potential future garden installations within the community

• Conservation – promoting plants for that provide multiple ecosystem services (aesthetics, food, wildlife value, erosion control, etc.)
• Community – enhancing shared community spaces, encouraging community pride, and strengthening our organizations relationship with the community

Number of Position(s): 1

Qualifications and Experience 

Primary Service Goals Include:

• Evaluation of plant selection and design for existing zoo-affiliated community garden spaces

• Creation of long-term garden maintenance plans and resources

• Support for Horticulture Department in the planning & execution of REDS Community Project goals

• Service member would have the opportunity to attend some planning meetings involving the Horticulture Department and meet community leaders, partners, and other stakeholders while learning what the process of community revitalization looks like

• Research and create design ideas for potential future garden installations within the community

• Evaluate, assess, and report program goals and outcomes

• Measure impact of and goals for the program year

• Participate in a mid-year and end of year performance review process with supervisors

• Complete bi-weekly timesheets to accurately report hours served
• Participate in professional development workshops through AmeriCorps In-Service days, service projects, and training opportunities

Secondary Service Goals Include:

• Contribute to the physical maintenance and enhancement of community garden spaces affiliated with the zoo and community-facing zoo gardens.

• Tasks to accomplish this goal may include: growing plants, transplanting, watering, mulching, deadheading, pruning, weeding, string trimming, maintaining footpaths, reseeding/replacing sod, amending soil, overwintering plant material, and other garden maintenance tasks.

• Assist in the coordination and leadership of volunteer groups in garden installation and upkeep as necessary

• Provide hands-on horticultural trainings/demonstrations for community members in community garden spaces

• Collaboration and communication with other departments to accomplish big picture projects

Additional Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s Degree required

• Ability to use basic and preferably advanced functions of Windows operating systems, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, Publisher) the internet and web-based forms
• Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed

About the Position 

The AmeriCorps Member in this position would contribute to the establishment and long-term success of urban tree plantings and micro-forests in the greater Cincinnati area through the evaluation of past installations and methods, development of educational resources that can be shared with community partners involved with urban reforestation efforts, and the physical installation of trees and micro-forest within communities in this urban environment. The member in this role will learn about the process of urban reforestation and build upon the relationships that we are cultivating with the community of Avondale and greater Cincinnati.

The AmeriCorps member would support the mission and goals of our program and the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden by assisting to ensure the long-term value of zoo-affiliated tree plantings and micro-forests to local communities.  The service member’s contributions would impact overall aesthetics of the community and serve to promote and build upon the positive relationship that our organization strives to create. It would support our mission of inspiring people with plants every day and contribute to the five pillars of the Botanical Garden and Cincinnati Zoo:

• Collection – contribute toward the installation and maintenance of trees that provide a variety of benefits to community

• Education – creation of shareable resources to assist other groups in the successful establishment of trees and micro-forests in the urban landscape

• Research – evaluation of zoo-affiliated tree planting projects in greater Cincinnati to ascertain factors that contribute to the success or failure of these sites as well as creating potential design ideas for future micro-forests within local communities

• Conservation – preserving and establishing tree species that will serve future generations of people and wildlife in a variety of ways for years to come
• Community – enhancing shared community spaces, encouraging community pride, and strengthening our organizations relationship with the community

Number of Position(s): 1

 Qualifications and Experience 

Primary Service Goals Include:

• Evaluation of tree planting projects in greater Cincinnati, specifically zoo-affiliated projects, to ascertain factors that contribute to the success or failure of these sites.

• Creation of shareable resources to assist other groups in the successful establishment of trees and micro-forests in the urban landscape. This would include information about site preparation, tree selection, methods of planting and establishing new trees, long-term care for these species and spaces, and challenges that these trees and micro-forests may experience in the face of climate change, development, and other issues specific to the urban environment.

• Support for Horticulture Department in the planning & creation of micro-forests within Avondale and the greater Cincinnati area

• Contribute toward the Cincinnati Zoo Legacy Tree program by growing seedlings and cuttings from trees that have been identified as genetically valuable specimens. These trees can be distributed and utilized in underserved communities to enhance the urban tree canopy, maintain diverse urban forests, and spread our legacy tree messaging as it relates to different plants, promoting strong adaptable plants suitable for the urban environment, and succession planting.

• Service member would have the opportunity to attend some planning meetings involving the Horticulture Department and meet community leaders, partners, and other stakeholders while learning what the process of urban reforestation looks like

• Research and create design ideas for potential future micro-forest installations within the community

• Evaluate, assess, and report program goals and outcomes

• Measure impact of and goals for the program year

• Participate in a mid-year and end of year performance review process with supervisors

• Complete bi-weekly timesheets to accurately report hours served
• Participate in professional development workshops through AmeriCorps In-Service days, service projects, and training opportunities

Secondary Service Goals Include:

• Contribute to the physical planting and establishment of trees and micro-forests within Avondale and the greater Cincinnati area.

• Tasks to accomplish this goal may include growing and distributing trees, transplanting, watering, mulching, pruning, weeding, string trimming, collecting and processing seed, and general tree maintenance tasks.

• Assist in the coordination and leadership of volunteer groups in tree planting and early establishment.

• Provide hands-on horticultural training/demonstrations for community members who will plant and maintain trees in their communities.

• Collaboration and communication with other departments to accomplish big picture projects.

Additional Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s Degree required

• Ability to use basic and preferably advanced functions of Windows operating systems, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, Publisher) the internet and web-based forms

• Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed

About the Position 

This position will focus on advancing Cincinnati Zoo’s sustainability goals to be net-zero energy, water, and waste. The Sustainability team is working to develop the roadmap to meet these goals, as well as developing goals of regenerative environmental impact that go beyond our campus borders.

Responsibilities

• Create and distribute communications content for various audiences and platforms about the sustainability departments projects

• Serve as a liaison between the education and sustainability departments, participating in the AmeriCorps Sustainability Group

• Assist with greenhouse gas data collection, analysis, and reporting

• Facilitate the management of projects that expand the sustainability and regenerative landscape at the Zoo’s Bowyer Farm that may include but are not limited to:

• horticulture plantings, syrup production, agrivoltaics, stream and ecological restoration work, soil testing, and organizing ongoing research opportunities

• Assist in the coordination of projects within the Zoo’s Community Solar Resiliency Program

• Help facilitate holiday drives for local schools and community partners

• Assist with other positive impact and community projects such as greenspace installations and neighborhood tree plantings

• Help expand and manage specialty recycling program, coordinating zoo-wide communication, and scheduling pick-ups

• Attend community related meetings and networking events

• Evaluate, assess, and report various project goals and outcomes

• Measure impact of and goals for the program year

• Participate in a mid-year and end-of-year performance review process with supervisors.

• Complete bi-weekly timesheets to accurately report hours served

• Participate in professional development workshops through AmeriCorps in-service days, service projects and training opportunities

Qualifications and Experience 

Skills 

• Strong writing skills

• Strong data collection and analysis skills

• Strong communication and public speaking skills

• Excellent organizational skills with ability to meet deadlines and independently manage multiple tasks and timely follow-through, with flexibility to adapt to changing needs and to serve effectively with minimal supervision

• Ability and desire to serve collaboratively

• Willingness to seek and use available resources to support problem solving efforts

• Ability to independently problem solve and think strategically

• Ability to serve alongside and build relationships with people from diverse backgrounds

Additional Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience required

• A sincere love of wildlife and nature, and desire to share that interest with others

• Knowledge of engineering, environmental science, biology, zoology or a related natural science

• Desire and interest in serving with people of all ages and backgrounds; demonstrated patience, rapport with, and understanding of underserved audiences

• Ability to use basic and some advanced functions of Windows operating systems, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, Publisher) the internet and web-based forms

• Ability to serve evenings and weekends as needed

About the Position

This position will focus on direct service of teachers and economically disadvantaged students to improve science literacy and academic engagement. This service includes all aspects of the LCEAF grant management, guiding teachers through the entire process from signing up for field trips to teacher professional development, program instruction and evaluation. Incumbent will also collaborate with a local public school to offer urban learning garden programs in-school and after-school). They will report directly to and be supervised by the Education Programs Team.

Responsibilities 

Zoo Academy (ZA) Program

• Create a school year calendar to be shared with Zoo lab staff that identifies the beginning of each school quarter, the beginning/end of lab cycles, upcoming school staff PD days, holidays, breaks, etc. so that Zoo staff are informed of when students will not be in labs.

• Communicate with the Zoo on a bi-weekly basis of changes in student schedules, upcoming holidays, student photos, and shout outs of students in action.

• Visit lab sites to collect photos and stories of students bi-weekly.

• Work with ZA liaison to coordinate lab placement of students and communicate with Zoo lab staff one month before lab start date.

• Coordinate beginning, mid-year, and end of year celebration of ZA students and staff.

• Coordinate the annual selection and distribution of student uniforms at the beginning of the school year.

• Write up a quarterly report on what they are learning from both students and zoo lab staff, highlights, and their thoughts on how to improve the program.
• Help create education-focused content for external communication via the Teacher Connections Facebook page and for Zoo’s blog as well as internal communications via the Vine employee hub that highlight the Zoo Academy program.

Program Impact Evaluation  

• Help review program goals and objectives against the existing learnings outcomes for Zoo Academy Labs.
• Observe, evaluate, and assess program outcomes to measure impact of and goals for the program year.
• Collect data, evaluate outcomes, and create summative reports of findings.

General

• Attend meetings and professional development trainings pertaining to service position.

• Assist with other program evaluation and assessment as needed.

Qualifications and Experience 

Skills

• Data and evaluation collection skills

• Strong communication and public speaking skills

• Strong customer service skills

• Excellent organizational skills with ability to meet deadlines and independently manage multiple tasks and timely follow-through.

• Flexibility to adapt to changing needs and to work effectively with minimal supervision.

• Willingness to seek and use available resources to support problem-solving efforts.

• Ability to independently problem solve and think strategically

• Ability to work and build relationships with people from diverse backgrounds

• Ability to work collaboratively with team members from other departments

Additional Qualifications 

• Minimum of a High School Diploma/GED plus related experience is required

• A sincere commitment to wildlife and nature conservation, and desire to share that value with others

• Knowledge of informal science education, wildlife ecology, environmental science, biology, zoology and/or a related natural science

• Knowledge of formal education & standards preferred but not required.

• Knowledge of informal education preferred but not required.

• Experience handling birds, small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates or a strong desire and willingness to learn.

• Desire and interest in working with people of all ages and backgrounds; demonstrated patience, rapport with, and understanding of underserved audiences.

• Ability to use basic and some advanced functions of Windows operating systems, SharePoint, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, Publisher, Teams), web-based forms, and virtual learning platforms (Zoom, Google Meet, etc.).

• Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed.