Application Deadline:This position will remain open untilSeptember 25 2025 or until a sufficient number of qualified applications have been received. We reserve the right to closethe posting earlyif a well-qualified candidate pool has been established. Early submission is encouraged.Early submission is encouraged. Are you passionate about wildlife conservation and inspiring people of all ages At Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens were on a mission to Connect the community to wildlife with wild places. Were seeking anInterpretive Guide (Part-Time) to join our Education Department and create unforgettable guest experiences that spark curiosity encourage conservation and leave a lasting impression. Imagine engaging visitors with fascinating wildlife stories facilitating memorable animal encounters and welcoming guests to stunning habitats like the Lorikeet Aviary Range of the Jaguars and Giraffe Overlook. If you thrive in a guest-facing environment and care deeply about animals and the natural world this could be the perfect role for you. Join us in creating unforgettable experiences and fostering a deeper appreciation for wildlife and conservation. What Youll Do: - Lead engaging presentations tours and interactive programs for audiences of all ages.
- Provide exceptional hospitality to all guests ensuring a welcoming safe and inclusive experience.
- Share captivating educational narratives about our animals their habitats and conservation efforts.
- Maintain accurate records of animal diets feeding schedules and cleaning supplies.
- Work both indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions including evenings and peak seasonal events.
- Collaborate with team members volunteers and other departments to deliver seamless high-quality guest experiences.
What Youll Bring - High school diploma or equivalent.
- Enrollment in coursework related to environmental science ecology life sciences or up to six (6) months of relevant experience in a guest-focused educational or conservation-related role (paid or unpaid).
- Available Part-Time for29.5 hours per week including at least one weekend day.
- Willing to work evening shifts during peak seasonal events (5 PM 10 PM).
- Ability to perform the physical demands of a 68 hour shift including working outdoors in Florida weather with or without reasonable accommodation.
- Allergy-free to fish plants or animals that may interfere with job duties.
- Ability to pass pre-employment screenings including drug screening Level II background check fingerprinting and sex offender registry check.
- Excellent public speaking and presentation skills confident leading tours talks and demonstrations.
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to connect with diverse audiences.
- Composure in fast-paced or high-volume environments.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and related tools for communication and data entry.
A plus - Bilingual fluency (Spanish preferred).
- First Aid & CPR certification.
- Bachelors degree in Life Science or related field.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS - Ability to consistently remain on your feet for 6-8 hours on shift.
- Ability to walk bend kneel crouch crawl climb and reach.
- Visual acuity for reading writing and observingsurroundings and auditory acuity for communication.
- Ability to be allergy free to fish plants or animals that may interfere with the preparation of food/diets to the collection of various species
- Ability to lift carry and move objects up to 20 pounds.
- Ability to work with a variety of animals including invertebrates reptiles and small companion mammals.
- Ability to safely operate a motorized cart.
WORK CONDITIONS - Exposure to various weather conditions including extreme heat sunlight cold rain and wind.
- Potential exposure to allergens (dust animal dander pollen etc.) bloodborne pathogens zoonotic diseases and injuries from animals.
- Irregular work hours including evenings weekends and holidays are sometimes required.
- Exposure to hazards such wildlife waste equipment loud noises chemicals and heights.
We are an equal opportunity employer and comply with all applicable federal state and local employment regulations.EOE / DRUG FREE WORKPLACE
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