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Humane Educator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Michigan Humane

Community Advocacy Manager

Detroit, MI · On-site

Committed to educating and providing resources to families we serve, building a more humane community. Responsibilities: * Develop, communicate and enforce policies, procedures and best practices for ...

Michigan Humane

Relief Clinic Veterinarian

Westland, MI · On-site

Michigan Humane is a non-profit animal welfare organization dedicated to improving and saving lives ... Opportunities for professional development, growth, and continuing education * A positive and ...

Michigan Humane

Veterinarian

Detroit, MI · On-site

$25K/mo

Who We Are Michigan Humane is a non-profit animal welfare organization dedicated to improving and ... Opportunities for professional development, growth, and generous continuing education * A positive ...

Michigan Humane

Relief Clinic Veterinarian

Westland, MI · On-site

Michigan Humane is a non-profit animal welfare organization dedicated to improving and saving lives ... Opportunities for professional development, growth, and continuing education * A positive and ...

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Humane Educator information

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$19

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How much do humane educator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for humane educator in Michigan is $19.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a humane educator?

Humane educators are professionals who teach people—often children, but also adults—about compassion, respect, and responsibility toward animals, people, and the environment. They design and deliver programs, workshops, and curricula that promote empathy, ethical decision-making, and positive social change. Humane educators may work in schools, animal shelters, nonprofits, or community organizations, aiming to inspire individuals to make choices that improve the well-being of all living things. Their work often includes interactive lessons, advocacy, and public speaking to raise awareness about issues like animal welfare, environmental stewardship, and social justice.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a humane educator?

To thrive as a Humane Educator, you need a background in education, animal welfare, or a related field, often supported by a degree or relevant certifications. Familiarity with educational technology, curriculum development tools, and animal care protocols is typically required. Excellent communication, public speaking, and empathy are vital soft skills for effectively engaging diverse audiences and fostering compassion. These skills and qualities are essential for inspiring positive attitudes towards animals and promoting responsible behavior in communities.

What are some common challenges faced by humane educators, and how can they be addressed?

Humane educators often encounter the challenge of engaging diverse audiences with varying levels of knowledge and interest in animal welfare and social justice topics. To address this, educators tailor their approaches to be age-appropriate and culturally sensitive, using interactive activities and real-life stories to foster empathy and understanding. Additionally, they may work in environments where resources are limited, so creativity and collaboration with colleagues or local organizations are essential to maximize impact. Building strong relationships with schools, community groups, and shelters can also help overcome logistical hurdles and broaden outreach.

What is the difference between Humane Educator vs Animal Care Specialist?

AspectHumane EducatorAnimal Care Specialist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer related certificationsHigh school diploma; certifications in animal handling may be preferred
Work EnvironmentClassroom, community outreach, educational programsAnimal shelters, kennels, veterinary clinics
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, zoos, educational organizationsAnimal shelters, rescue organizations, veterinary clinics
Primary FocusEducating the public about animal welfare and responsible pet ownershipProviding direct care, feeding, and health monitoring of animals

While both roles involve working with animals, Humane Educators focus on public education and outreach, whereas Animal Care Specialists are primarily responsible for the daily care and well-being of animals. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right position aligned with their skills and interests.

What are popular job titles related to Humane Educator jobs in Michigan?

For Humane Educator jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Humane Educator jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Humane Educator jobs in Michigan are:

Humane Educator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Humane Educator job openings in Michigan as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,641 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Education Specialist

Royal Oak, MI • On-site

Detroit Zoological Society
Museums and Historical Sites • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Detroit Zoological Societyexternal

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Education Specialist
General Description
The Education Specialist advances the Zoo's mission by designing and delivering engaging, mission-driven educational experiences that connect diverse audiences to wildlife conservation, environmental stewardship and animal well-being. Working collaboratively across the Education Department, this position supports programming for youth and families, schools and teachers, adult learners, volunteers and community audiences, ensuring learning experiences are accessible, relevant and impactful. Through formal and informal learning experiences, the specialist fosters curiosity, empathy and a sense of responsibility toward all living things. The Education Specialist facilitates interactive programs in a variety of settings, including classrooms, community spaces, digital platforms and in the Zoo. By applying best practices in teaching, interpretation and audience engagement, the specialist creates meaningful opportunities for participants to explore, learn and take action. The specialist also contributes to program development, evaluation and continuous improvement efforts, helping ensure educational experiences are inclusive, joyful and aligned with the Zoo's educational and strategic goals.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
  • Deliver high-quality educational programs for diverse audiences, including youth, families, schools, teachers, teens, adults, volunteers, graduate students and community groups.
  • Facilitate camps, early learner programs, overnight experiences, school programs, teacher professional development, humane education initiatives, adult learning programs, teen leadership programs and visitor learning experiences.
  • Create inclusive, engaging and memorable learning experiences using a variety of instructional and interpretive techniques.
  • Integrate conservation, environmental stewardship, animal well-being and humane education principles into all educational programming.
  • Support the implementation of teen volunteer, teen internship, volunteer training and graduate education programs through instruction, mentorship and participant engagement.
  • Assist with the development, preparation, evaluation and continuous improvement of educational programs, curricula, activities and instructional materials.
  • Facilitate learning experiences that align with state and national academic standards, educational best practices and the Detroit Zoological Society's mission and goals.
  • Maintain positive relationships with program participants, volunteers, community partners and colleagues to support successful program delivery.
  • Represent the Detroit Zoological Society at educational programs, outreach events, community engagements and special events.
  • Collect participant feedback and evaluation data and communicate observations to support program assessment and improvement.
  • Maintain current knowledge of conservation, animal well-being, humane education, environmental stewardship, educational best practices, safety procedures and applicable standards.
  • Assist with program logistics, preparation of materials and supplies, recordkeeping and participant communications.
  • Operate a motor vehicle for programs and events and assist with special projects and other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Completion of an associate's degree or equivalent certificate program in general science, education, zoology, biology, or other closely related field OR completion of a high school diploma or GED and two years of experience in an informal or formal learning institution.
Minimum of one (1) year of experience delivering engaging learning experiences.
  • Knowledge of K-12 education, adult learning, curriculum implementation, and alignment with applicable educational standards.
  • Skill in facilitating engaging, inclusive and learner-centered educational programs for diverse audiences, including youth, families, schools, teachers, teens, adults, volunteers, graduate students and community groups.
  • Skill in applying a variety of instructional, interpretive and classroom management techniques to support meaningful learning experiences.
  • Skill in building positive relationships with participants, volunteers, educators, community partners and colleagues.
  • Ability to integrate conservation, environmental stewardship, animal well-being and humane education concepts into educational experiences.
  • Ability to organize materials, manage program logistics, and balance multiple priorities while maintaining attention to detail.
  • Ability to collect and document participant feedback, support program evaluation efforts, and contribute to continuous improvement.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams to support educational programs, special events and organizational initiatives.
  • Ability to represent the Detroit Zoological Society professionally and positively in educational, community and public settings.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends and holidays as needed, and operate a motor vehicle for programs and events.

Working Conditions
This position requires the ability to perform moderate physical effort on a daily basis, such as walking, bending, stooping, lifting, and standing for extended periods, as well as the use of a computer and telephone. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
Physical Requirements
Regular work schedule will include weekends, evenings and early mornings. This position may require overnight business travel. The work environment is generally comfortable and some work is indoors although the position may require work outdoors with exposure to seasonal weather conditions for programs, special events, tours, or other activities.
Just as we value and celebrate biodiversity, the DZS celebrates the diversity of our human community. We are committed to ensuring that our programs and facilities are fully accessible to create a welcoming and inclusive workplace for all.

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