The Tour Operator Guide performs all job assignments with a positive attitude that supports San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's mission and vision of saving species worldwide by uniting our expertise in wildlife care and conservation science with our dedication to inspiring passion for nature. The Tour Operator Guide works under general supervision to engage and captivate guests through storytelling while operating vehicles and in department areas. They are responsible for facilitating tours, queuing, loading, and dispatching safely and efficiently, providing an exceptional experience for our guests at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. This position reports to the Safari Experiences Supervisor.
- This class differs from the Educator Guide class at the Zoo and Safari Park in that the Educator Guide handles wildlife.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
- Serves as the voice for the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, offering captivating an educational tours and connections that introduce our guests to plant, wildlife, conservation science, and our leadership role in the conservation community.
- Operates vehicles in a manner that promotes our reputation for safety and professionalism including responding to medical and mechanical emergencies as needed.
- Closely observes pathway conditions and riders, actively looks for and reporting potential safety hazards, and follows department guidelines on timeliness to ensure the efficiency of the department.
- Facilitates boarding processes and engage with guests to answer questions and ensure adherence to safety guidelines.
- Records and input guest counts and operational data.
- Provides consistently welcoming guest service throughout all job assignments.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
- Safari Experiences is seeking an individual who is inspired to be part of an organization that is committed to protecting wildlife around the globe.
- The Tour Operator Guide will lead premium tours throughout the San Diego Zoo Safari Park while upholding high guest service and safety standards.
- Highly motivated, enthusiastic, and personable applicants are encouraged to apply. Preferred candidates would have experience with some or all of the following:
- engaging with audiences of all backgrounds, sharing conservation stories in an engaging manner, and excellent teamwork skills.
- Schedule availability of at least 4 days a week, including both weekend days, is highly desirable.
EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS
- Training and/or experience which would demonstrate the essential functions, knowledge and skills outlined. An example of which would be prior training or education in the life sciences and prior experience in public speaking; must be 18 years of age.
- Valid California Driver License And Upon Hire required
- Valid California Class B Driver License preferred
- SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
Knowledge of:
- Zoology, with special attention to the care and unique qualities of the wildlife in residence
- Layout of the Zoo or Safari Park
- Organization policies, rules and practices
- Public speaking
- Principles of public relations
Ability to:
- Communicate clear and concise via an amplified public address system
- Operate tour vehicle safely and efficiently
- Handle repetition and unruly passengers
- Update knowledge of animal exhibit and condition changes
- Distinguish wildlife in camouflaged habitats
- Follow directions effectively
- Handle physical, medical, and mechanical emergencies
- Monitor sounds
- Perform the duties outlined above
SOME OF THE PERKS YOU WILL ENJOY AS A TEAM MEMBER
- Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
- Family Passes
- Complimentary Tickets
- Local and In-House Discounts
- Employee Assistance Program
- Wellness Program
Salary
- Hourly Rate: $29.99
