Interpretation Programs Specialist

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance•Denver, CO

6h•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 the zoo campus. The position 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. The specialist adapts facilitation in real time to guest needs, models high-quality interpretive practice for staff and volunteers, supports program testing and refinement, and maintains materials, equipment, and resources for consistent daily implementation. The role interacts extensively with visitors and the public, as well as specialists, coordinators, managers, and staff across the organization. It requires regular weekend availability and scheduled evening work, and may involve occasional after-hours programs. The specialist may handle live animals and biofacts, although animal contact is not guaranteed; training will be provided. The position also supports special events, one-time activations, interdepartmental initiatives, and other departmental needs as assigned.

Requirements

Completion of, or pursuit of, a high school degree or equivalent, or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
Public speaking skills and the ability to adapt to different presentation and demonstration conditions.
Ability to communicate effectively in noisy or crowded situations.
Ability to adapt 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 Saturdays and Sundays as part of the regular work week and evenings as scheduled.

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

Deliver dynamic, large-scale amphitheater demonstrations for multigenerational audiences of 200 or more, using a microphone; some programs may occur after hours or in the evening.
Lead engaging small-group interpretive experiences, 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 based on audience response, 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, interactive animal experiences while ensuring guest and animal safety; live animal or biofact handling may be involved, but is not guaranteed.
Represent Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance professionally in the community and onsite, and assist other zoo teams with program-related needs.
Model effective facilitation, guest interaction, conservation messaging, customer service, and safety practices for peer and interdepartmental staff and volunteers.
Adapt curricula and program plans in real time to meet participant needs, including modifying facilitation methods and styles.
Lead by example in presentations and animal experiences, and support a positive team culture within the department and across the zoo.
Participate in regular coaching and feedback, and provide timely feedback on program logistics and guest responses.
Maintain Guest Engagement program materials and tools as requested, and organize and upkeep signage related to demonstrations, talks, and other programs.
Support testing and refinement of new and existing programs by providing timely feedback on participation, audience response, program flow, logistics, resources, and operational feasibility.
Review program plans and bilingual program plans as requested, and assist with interdepartmental initiatives as assigned.
Act as a steward of zoo resources and safeguard confidential and proprietary information.
Follow Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance sustainability policies and applicable environmental, safety, and health regulations, procedures, and goals.