At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engaging learning and community programmes at Highland Wildlife Park.
- Company: Join the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, a leader in wildlife conservation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, healthcare plan, and free zoo entry for you and your friends.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in conservation and inspire others to love nature.
- Qualifications: Experience in education, project management, and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Full-time role with excellent career development opportunities in a vibrant environment.
The predicted salary is between 46634 - 51979 £ per year.
About us
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) is a wildlife conservation charity with a bold vision: a world where nature is protected, valued and loved. Edinburgh Zoo and Highland Wildlife Park are our gateways to the natural world through which people can experience nature.
How you’ll contribute to our mission
The Discovery and Learning Manager will manage the discovery, learning, community, nature accessibility, daily onsite engagement activity and volunteering functions at Highland Wildlife Park, with input into these activities across the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS). They will support our charity’s strategic goals, position our parks as world-class visitor destinations and strengthen our reputation as a global leader in conservation, science and community engagement.
Some of the things you’ll do:
- Support the development and delivery of the learning, community and discovery strategies aligned with RZSS’ mission and long-term goals, national priorities and curriculum outcomes.
- Identify and develop income-generating opportunities, including grants, sponsorship, partnerships, commercial education products and fundraising initiatives, to support programme sustainability.
- Develop and oversee education, learning, discovery and community programmes that align with national priorities, curriculum outcomes and organisational objectives and broaden participation, particularly for under-represented audiences.
- Embed approaches to accessibility, inclusion and lifelong learning into programming, ensuring RZSS is recognised as a best-practice exemplar.
- Support teams to secure external funding, ensuring programme sustainability and growth.
- Foster partnerships with schools, universities, local authorities, Non-Governmental Organisations and community partners to expand RZSS’ reach and influence.
- Engage in continuous professional development in conservation education, leadership, accessibility and inclusion practices.
- Contribute to and learn from national and international research in conservation, learning and community engagement.
What we’re looking for:
- Excellent understanding and knowledge of adaptable communication with diverse audiences.
- Excellent knowledge of learning and education outside of traditional education settings, lifelong learning, outdoor learning and accessibility and inclusion.
- Managing budgets, including restricted project funding.
- Strong project and change management capability, with evidence of delivering transformational outcomes.
- Managing multiple projects and deadlines.
- Building relationships with and managing stakeholders, including internal colleagues and external partners.
What you’ll get in return:
- Starting pro-rated salary of £46,634 or £47,800 (offer based on experience) with future salary progression up to £51,979 per annum.
- 37.5hr working week (may require some weekend working).
- 34 days annual leave (pro rata).
- Discount in both retail/catering.
- Access to a healthcare plan.
- Access to Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), that provide 24-hour counselling and support, including health, legal, finance, wellbeing and family advice.
- Employer contributory pension scheme.
- You will receive a staff membership which will give you (and family/friends) free (and discounted) entry to both the Highland Wildlife Park and Edinburgh Zoo as well as a number of other Zoos across the UK.
If this role excites you and aligns with your career aspirations, click APPLY now. This is a full time, fixed term post for 2 years. This role is subject to standard pre-employment checks, including the candidate's right to work in the UK and PVG Check. Please note that shortlisting of applications and interviews for this position will take place while the advert is live. The advert will close once a successful candidate has been found. Interested candidates are therefore encouraged to submit applications, as soon as possible.
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland is an equal opportunities employer. Our policy is to recruit a diverse workforce following the guidelines of the Equality Act 2010.
Discovery and Learning Manager employer: The Royal Zoological Society Of Scotland
Contact Detail:
The Royal Zoological Society Of Scotland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Discovery and Learning Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the conservation and education sectors, especially those connected to RZSS. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for wildlife conservation! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or during interviews, share your experiences and ideas related to community engagement and learning strategies. Let them see how your vision aligns with RZSS’s mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching RZSS’s current projects and initiatives. Think about how you can contribute to their goals, especially in areas like accessibility and inclusion. Tailor your responses to highlight your relevant skills and experiences.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, keep an eye on our careers page for any new opportunities that pop up. The sooner you apply, the better your chances!
We think you need these skills to ace Discovery and Learning Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience: When writing your application, keep in mind the diverse audiences RZSS engages with. Use clear and adaptable language that reflects your understanding of their mission and values.
Showcase Your Experience: Highlight your relevant experience in education, community engagement, and conservation. Be specific about your achievements and how they align with the role of Discovery and Learning Manager.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through! We want to see your passion for wildlife conservation and education. Share your unique perspective and ideas on how you can contribute to RZSS’s goals.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Royal Zoological Society Of Scotland
✨Know Your Conservation Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends in wildlife conservation and education. Familiarise yourself with RZSS's mission and how they engage with the community. This will show your genuine interest and help you connect your experience to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed multiple projects or budgets in the past. Be ready to discuss specific outcomes and how you navigated challenges. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of the role.
✨Engage with Accessibility and Inclusion
Think about how you can contribute to making learning accessible for all. Have ideas ready on how to broaden participation, especially for under-represented audiences. This aligns perfectly with RZSS’s commitment to inclusion and will set you apart.
✨Build Relationships in Your Answers
Be prepared to talk about how you've built relationships with stakeholders in previous roles. Highlight your communication skills and adaptability when working with diverse audiences. This is crucial for the Discovery and Learning Manager position.