Interpretation Programs Specialist

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance•Denver, CO

2d•$21 - $25•Onsite

About The Position

The Interpretation Programs Specialist connects guests with Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance’s mission and conservation identity by delivering engaging, audience-centered interpretive experiences across campus. The role facilitates programs in a range of formats and sizes, including large- and small-group demonstrations and presentations, exhibit-based interpretation, participatory experiences, and pilot programming. Specialists adapt their facilitation in real time to guest needs, model high-quality interpretive practice for staff and volunteers, support program testing and refinement, and maintain the materials, equipment, and resources needed for consistent daily program delivery. The role interacts extensively with the public and works with specialists, coordinators, managers, and staff across the organization. It requires weekend and scheduled evening availability as part of the regular work week, as well as the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions. Live-animal and biofact handling may be involved; training is provided, but animal contact is not guaranteed.

Requirements

Completion of or current pursuit of a high school degree or equivalent is required, or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
Public speaking skills and the ability to adapt to different presentation or demonstration conditions.
Ability to communicate effectively in noisy or crowded situations.
Ability to adapt to changing daily schedules and work as part of a team.
Ability to deliver engaging, responsive, audience-centered thematic presentations and demonstrations.
Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
Availability to work weekends, including Saturdays and Sundays, and scheduled evenings as part of the regular work week.

Nice To Haves

Basic computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
Spanish-language bilingual ability; a pay differential is available for candidates with verified Spanish-speaking fluency.

Responsibilities

Deliver large-scale amphitheater demonstrations using a microphone for multigenerational audiences of 200 or more, including occasional after-hours or evening programs.
Lead small-group interpretive experiences in a variety of formats, with or without amplification, according to program needs.
Deliver and facilitate new and existing onsite interpretive and interactive programs, including exhibit-based interpretation, participatory programming, pop-up or roaming experiences, seasonal activations, station-based programming, play-based experiences, and pilot programs.
Adapt facilitation style, pacing, content, and participation in real time in response to audience needs, guest behavior, program conditions, and intended outcomes.
Support special events, one-time activations, and emerging programming needs with flexibility, creativity, and a guest-centered approach.
Facilitate immersive and interactive animal experiences while supporting the engagement and safety of guests and animals.
Handle live animals and biofacts when applicable; training is provided, and animal contact is not guaranteed.
Represent Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance professionally in the community and onsite.
Provide program-related assistance to other zoo teams as needed.
Model facilitation techniques and best practices in guest interaction, conservation messaging, customer service, and safety for staff and volunteers.
Adapt curricula and program plans in real time to meet audience needs, including modifying facilitation style or method.
Lead by example in delivering presentations and animal experiences for interdepartmental staff.
Demonstrate and advocate for a positive team culture within the department and across the zoo.
Participate in and receive regular coaching and feedback, and provide timely feedback on program logistics and guest feedback.
Maintain Guest Engagement program materials and tools as requested.
Maintain and organize signage for demonstrations, talks, and other programs.
Support testing and refinement of new and existing programs by providing timely feedback on guest participation, audience response, program flow, logistics, resources, and operational feasibility.
Assist with interdepartmental initiatives as assigned and review program plans and bilingual program plans as requested.
Safeguard Denver Zoo’s confidential and proprietary information and act as a good steward of its resources.
Follow Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance sustainability policies and applicable environmental, safety, and health regulations, procedures, and goals.