Interpretive Specialist

This position is responsible for the Animal Programs Department-wide interpretive experience and assisting educational specialists in outreach programming as necessary. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Present interpretive programs throughout the zoo, including behind the scenes opportunities, animal exhibit discussions, educational programs and animal presentations
• Assist Community Outreach Manager in designing and implementing interpretive programs as needed in conjunction with the Outreach program
• Maintain collection of biofacts used during interpretive presentations including updating species information
• Assist in animal husbandry in all areas of Outreach
• Promote the Fort Worth Zoo and its objectives through various media channels and speaking events

Qualifications:

• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Strong interpretation skills across a variety of methods
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Ability to operate as a member of a large, diverse team
• Strong organizational and time management skills 
• Ability to maintain a professional appearance and manner out in the public
• Valid driver license with acceptable motor vehicle record to maintain zoo standards of insurability

Education and/or Experience:

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Communications, Zoology, Biology, Wildlife Management, life sciences or related field preferred
• At least one-year interpretation experience and NAI certification preferred

Physical Demands: 

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear. 
•  The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds

Work Environment:

• The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
• Team oriented environment
• Ability to work irregular hours (holidays and weekends)
• Ability to work special events and functions as required
• Ability to work outdoors in heat, cold and inclement weather
• This position may be safety sensitive
• This position may work around animals susceptible to specific diseases, thus may be subject to regular tuberculosis and rabies titer testing, and the routine use of personal protective equipment such as gloves, face masks

Disclaimer

• The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as a complete inventory of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. 
• This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position.
• Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor.
• Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities.
• To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Continued employment remains on an at-will basis.

Benefits 

• This is a full-time position and offers the following benefits: 
• Medical and Prescription Drug (Employee Coverage 90% Employer Paid, Dependent Coverage 55% Employer Paid)
• Vision
• Dental
• Basic Life AD&D (100% Employer Paid)
• Short Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
• Long Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
• Supplemental Life
• Flexible Spending Account
• 401k
• Paid Time Off (Accrual Equivalent to 5 Weeks Per Year)
• PTO Rollover
• PTO Sell Back
• Free Zoo Membership
• Free Guest Passes
• Discounts on Food, Merchandise, Attractions, Admission and Programs

Salary

• $14.95 - $17.45 per hour