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Butterfly Exhibit Specialist/Lepidopterist (Temporary)
Dallas ZooUnited Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 15 Dec 2025
About the role
JOB SUMMARYThis is an entry-level position responsible for advancing the Dallas Zoo’s mission by facilitating experiential learning opportunities in a temporary butterfly habitat. Lepidopterists will actively engage guests and program participants through educational programming that inspires and empowers audiences to Create a Better World for Animals. Lepidopterists must be comfortable handling butterflies throughout their entire life cycle and interpreting topics relevant to the Zoo and wildlife conservation, as they relate to butterflies, to a wide variety of audiences on the Dallas Zoo campus. SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES * Provide overall daily care of butterflies and exhibits to ensure animal health, safety, and welfare, staff and public safety as set forth by AZA, USDA, and DZM to include: * Observe and monitor butterflies’ general health and behavior, reporting any abnormal behavior to supervisor and/or veterinary staff.* Prepare and provide food for butterflies, following written instructions, provide water and administer medication as instructed to ensure proper nutrition and health;* Clean animal exhibits, butterfly food stations and equipment, maintaining a high level of sanitation, conducting pest control activities and reporting any mechanical defects that would endanger the animal, zoo staff, and/or guests;* Provide care for butterflies throughout their life cycle, including chrysalis handling, butterfly releasing, and clean-up of expired butterflies.* Maintain accurate butterfly records. * Proactively engage audiences through mission-driven experiences that inspire and empower audiences to take part in conservation actions on behalf of wildlife:* Reinforce and encourage interest in wildlife through age-appropriate, developmentally appropriate, positive engagement with guests via programming; * Actively inspire and empower audiences to develop an interest in and empathy for wildlife through positive and engaging interactions via experiential education programming focused on Dallas Zoo conservation priorities;* Deliver education programs to groups of all sizes and ages;* Keep current on conservation issues, interpretive techniques, and conservation psychology/community-based social marketing best practices;* Maintain positive, professional relationships with Dallas Zoo staff, guests, and volunteers;* Assist as new hire trainer for volunteers and interns as assigned; Act as a trainer for new hire Conservation Interpreters as assigned;* Assist in the organization and maintenance of educational materials as needed.* Collaborate with other Zoo personnel as needed to meet the Dallas Zoo’s mission. This can include, but is not limited to, assisting and participating in media events, special tours, and public relations projects;* Participate in and support Zoo-wide initiatives, committees, and work groups; Understand and support Dallas Zoo’s Strategic and Master Plans and departmental goals;* Follow all safety protocols and understand the position’s role in emergency procedures, responding to emergencies as required;* Assist with the beautification of our park by removing litter and debris whenever you see it;* Assist with and raise awareness for AZA SAFE programs and Dallas Zoo conservation efforts;* Assist with other miscellaneous projects assigned by Dallas Zoo’s Education leadership team;* Must be willing to support the Dallas Zoo’s Mission and Vision statement. * Dallas Zoo is open to the public 364 days out of the year, therefore, all positions at the Dallas Zoo may require employees to work weekends, holidays, and evenings.* Perform other duties as assigned. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS • Two years of relevant experience in interpretation or a related field.• Excellent presentation and public engagement skills required;• Strong knowledge of best practices in interpretation required; National Association for Interpretation (NAI) certification preferred;• Bilingual speaking and writing skills preferred;• Excellent natural history and wildlife conservation knowledge with atten
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