Do you love wildlife, storytelling, and sparking curiosity in others? Join Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens as an Interpretive Guide I and become a frontline ambassador for conservation. In this entry-level role, you'll bring animals and ecosystems to life for guests of all ages — families, school groups, and curious adults alike.
- From the Lorikeet Aviary to Stingray Bay, you'll facilitate unforgettable interactive experiences while championing the zoo's mission to connect communities with wildlife and wild places.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
- Guest Engagement, safety & Education Lead interactive experiences at the Lorikeet Aviary, Giraffe Overlook, Animal Care Yard, and Stingray Bay.
- Share compelling animal, plant, and conservation stories tailored to families, school groups, and guests of all abilities.
- Inspire guests to take meaningful conservation action through approachable, inquiry-based interpretation.
- Deliver excellent service by answering questions, guiding animal interactions, and keeping areas running smoothly.
- Monitor guest behavior and animal welfare to ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for everyone.
- Address guest concerns calmly and escalate when needed.
Teamwork & Professionalism
- Collaborate within a diverse, fast-paced team environment.
- Represent JZBG's values of Culture, Conservation, Education, and
- Innovation in every interaction.
- Maintain accurate records and adhere to all JZBG policies and procedures.
WHAT YOU BRING
- Required
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- 1–2 years of experience in education, customer service, interpretation, or a related field.
- Genuine passion for wildlife, conservation, and informal education.
- Strong verbal communication and public-speaking skills.
- Ability to engage large and diverse audiences confidently.
- Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
- Strong organizational, time-management, and problem-solving abilities.
- Commitment to inclusion, equity, and respectful communication.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and basic digital tools.
Preferred
- Some college coursework or a Bachelor's degree in Zoology, Environmental
- Biology, Education, or a related field.
- Bilingual or multilingual skills.
PHYSICAL & ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods in an outdoor environment.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 30–50 pounds.
- Ability to bend, kneel, climb, crouch, and reach as needed.
- Comfort working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- Potential exposure to allergens, animals, zoonotic diseases, and environmental hazards.
OUR COMMITMENT
- At Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens, we believe that inspiring people to care for the natural world starts with caring for our team.
- We are committed to employee wellbeing, and we welcome candidates from all backgrounds who share our passion for conservation.
- This position description is not exhaustive and may evolve as organizational needs change.
