Education Evaluation Coordinator

The Education Evaluation Coordinator plays an important role in supporting continuous improvement within the Dallas Zoo’s education programs by coordinating and implementing evaluation activities. Working under the guidance of the Senior Director of Education, this position helps carry out data collection efforts, organize and summarize findings, and contribute ideas and resources to enhance the Zoo’s evaluation practices.

 

This position is responsible for compiling, formatting, and presenting evaluation data, as well as assisting with analysis and reporting to inform program development. While this role does not independently design or direct evaluation strategy, it plays a critical part in implementing tools, preparing data summaries, and supporting the Education team in measuring impact and outcomes.

 

This is a grant-funded, full-time hourly position supported by a two-year grant, with continuation contingent upon future funding. The position may require occasional weekend, evening, or holiday work as needed.

 

 

• Coordinate and conduct evaluation activities across education programs, including Wild Earth Preschool, school-based programs, and public engagement opportunities.

• Administer surveys, assessments, observations, and other tools to gather data from children, families, and guests

• Support the use of Kindergarten readiness assessments within the licensed preschool and assist preschool staff with child portfolios and formative assessments.

• Contribute to the introduction and implementation of new evaluation strategies and tools, in alignment with departmental goals and in collaboration with senior staff.

• Recommend innovative approaches or practices based on research or peer institution models for consideration by senior staff.

 

• Input and maintain qualitative and quantitative data using Microsoft Excel and other software as appropriate. 

• Organize and prepare summary charts, tables, and visualizations for internal review.

• Assist in preparing written updates, infographics, and verbal summaries for internal reporting and program improvement.

• Participate in data analysis discussions and contribute to understanding trends and outcomes.

 

• Collaborate with the Education Leadership Team to support measurable programmatic objectives, creating and implementing evaluation plans. 

• Assist with information gathering for grant requests, with specific attention to supporting the development of clear and measurable goals and objectives.

• Train and support staff and volunteers in using evaluation methods and data collection. 

• Facilitate workshops and provide coaching to build evaluation capacity within the Education Department.

• Connect with evaluation departments and professionals at peer institutions, creating and sustaining mutually beneficial relationships.

• Stay apprised of current research and methods in the field of informal learning evaluation. 

 

• Maintain secure, accurate records of data collected across all programs

• Organize and archive datasets in accordance with organizational policies and industry standards.

• Archive materials and support grant reporting documentation under direction from leadership.

• Provide regular updates and progress reports to supervisors and project teams.

 

• Maintain good customer relations with all program participants.

• Support alignment between program delivery and evaluation by assisting during program sessions.

• Act as Supervisor-on-Duty for in-park programming as assigned. 

• Assist with special events on and off zoo grounds as assigned.

• Support and model the Dallas Zoo’s mission, vision, and values.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

 

 

 

 

• Bachelor’s degree in the field of education, museum studies, social sciences, or a related field is preferred, but not required;

• At least 2 years of professional experience in education, program coordination, data support, or related fields is required;

• Familiarity with early learning standards (such as Pre-K guidelines) and basic assessment tools is a plus.

• Experience working with the public, particularly with families with young children (ages 3-8 years) and groups of mixed age children in an outdoor, free-choice learning environment;

• Experience with program evaluation or applied research in an informal learning setting strongly preferred;

• Knowledge of educational philosophies and learning theories; Familiarity with Pre-Kindergarten Guidelines and learning standards preferred;

• Availability to work occasional weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed, as the Zoo operates 364 days a year.

• Strong skills in both quantitative and qualitative data analysis;

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; experience with statistical or quantitative analysis software a plus;

• Demonstrated attention to detail, organizational, problem-solving and time management skills;

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to multi-task and work collaboratively in a dynamic team environment;

• Demonstrated ability to promote good morale and productivity in the workplace;  

• Must be flexible, self-motivated and a team player;  

• Must be able to establish and maintain an effective rapport with all levels of management, employees and Zoo guests;

• Ability to represent the Dallas Zoo in a professional manner at all times;

• Must be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, following instructions and documenting information appropriately;

• Must have good observational skills;

• Must be able to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above head, pull bend, climb stairs and ladders and carry up to 50lbs; 

• Must be able to work holidays and weekends;

• Must be able to actively work outdoors in hot, cold, or inclement weather.

 

· Must be able to sign DFPS form 2985 and 2912 Affidavit for Applicants for Employment with a Licensed Child Care Center. 

· Must have a valid driver’s license to operate company vehicles and reliable transportation.

· Pediatric CPR/first aid certification required, or the ability to receive certification within 2 weeks of employment

Successful candidates must pass pre-employment drug screening, background check and TB test.