Conservation Interpreter (Temporary)

Dallas Zoo Management•Dallas, TX

8d•Onsite

About The Position

This is a full-time, benefits-eligible temporary position on the Zoo's Education team during I Spy Butterflies at the Dallas Zoo. While this role is time-limited, it offers hands-on experience in a nationally recognized zoo education program. This is an entry-level position responsible for facilitating mission-driven programming on and off the Dallas Zoo campus. Interpreters will actively engage audiences through education programming, including interpretation and camps. Interpreters must be comfortable interpreting any topic relevant to the zoo and wildlife conservation to a wide variety of audiences. Bilingual in English/Spanish is a plus! The selected candidate must be available for some evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Requirements

An Associate’s degree in any field related to interpretation, biology, education, or conservation plus two years of interpretation experience are required
Excellent presentation and public engagement skills required
Strong knowledge of best practices in interpretation required, National Association for Interpretation (NAI) certification preferred
Excellent natural history and wildlife conservation knowledge with attention to scientific accuracy
Must maintain a high level of enthusiasm, energy, and creativity while performing interpretive programs on a regular basis
Must be comfortable working with and handling live animals
Must be a flexible, efficient, self-motivated team player, and solution-oriented: finding creative solutions to complex challenges
Must be able to establish and maintain an effective rapport with all levels of management, employees, interns, volunteers, and zoo guests
Must be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, following instructions and documenting information appropriately
Ability to represent the Dallas Zoo in a professional manner at all times
Ability to exercise sound judgment in emergency situations and to respond with appropriate action
Must be able to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above head, pull bend, climb stairs and ladders and carry up to 50 lbs.
Must be able to work holidays and weekends, both regular and irregular hours as required
Regular, reliable, and punctual attendance is an essential function of this position
Must be able to actively work outdoors in hot, cold, or inclement weather
Successful candidates must complete pre-employment drug screening, background check, and TB test
Must have a valid driver’s license to operate zoo vehicles and reliable transportation

Nice To Haves

a Bachelor’s degree in any field related to interpretation, biology, education, or conservation plus one year of experience in interpretation or education related to science, natural history, outdoor, environmental, or related field is preferred
National Association for Interpretation (NAI) certification preferred
Bilingual in English/Spanish is a plus!

Responsibilities

Deliver engaging, mission-driven experiences to inspire conservation action on behalf of wildlife
Reinforce and encourage interest in wildlife, in age-appropriate, developmentally appropriate, positive engagement with zoo guests and program participants via programming focused on wildlife conservation and nature connections.
Actively encourage interest in and empathy for wildlife through positive interaction with guests via interpretive presentations focused on Dallas Zoo conservation priorities
Assist in developing mission-driven programming as assigned
Prepare and update records, reports, and surveys. Assist in research projects as necessary
Keep current on conservation issues, interpretive techniques, and conservation psychology/community-based social marketing best practices
Perform general maintenance and repair of exhibits: painting, repair of bio-facts, garden maintenance
Interact positively and professionally with Dallas Zoo staff and volunteers in accordance with the Zoo’s “Best Day Ever” guest engagement policy
Assist as new hire trainer for volunteers and interns as assigned; Act as a trainer for new hire Conservation Interpreters as assigned
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 trash and debris whenever you see it
Assist with and raise awareness for AZA SAFE programs and Dallas Zoo conservation efforts
Perform other duties as assigned.