Guest Engagement Guide I (Part-Time)

ZooTampa; Tampa (FL); On-site; USD 20,664 - 27,552; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Retirement 403(b) plan

Employee Assistance Program

Discounted gym membership

Free membership to the Zoo

Discounts on Florida attractions

Job summary

ZooTampa is looking for a passionate Guest Engagement Guide I in Tampa, FL. This part-time role involves safely operating safari trucks, engaging guests with dynamic storytelling, and ensuring an entertaining and educational experience for visitors. Candidates should possess a valid Florida driver's license and strong public speaking skills.

The ideal applicant will be highly motivated, organized, and prepared to work flexible hours including weekends and holidays, while maintaining excellent interaction and hospitality standards.

Qualifications

• Valid Florida driver's license with a clean driving record.
• Strong storytelling and public speaking skills.
• Ability to work independently with general direction.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Highly motivated, organized, and a positive team player.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate a safari truck through rugged terrain.
• Engage guests with storytelling.
• Assist guests, including those with disabilities.
• Maintain safety and care for guests.
• Facilitate interpretive experiences.

Skills

Storytelling

Public speaking

Communication

Teamwork

Driving

Education

Background in education or environmental studies

Tools

Safari trucks

Radio

Computer

Job description

Guest Engagement Guide I (Part‑Time)

Location: Tampa, FL

Job Id: 2595 | # of Openings: 2

Work Friday/Saturday/Sunday schedule.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate a 32‑passenger Ford F550 safari truck through rugged terrain while delivering captivating animal and conservation stories.
• Engage guests with dynamic storytelling, maintaining an energetic presence.
• Assist in loading and unloading guests, including those with disabilities.
• Collaborate with other departments and act as a role model for new staff.
• Facilitate Safari Expedition, Signature Encounters, and other interpretive experiences.
• Perform educational narratives on moving truck, ensuring safety and entertainment.
• Rotate between Safari Expedition roles throughout the day.
• Assist passengers in boarding and disembarking.
• Demonstrate safe operation of safari trucks and respond to emergency situations.
• Maintain excellent guest interaction and hospitality skills.
• Enforce safety and departmental rules; carry out ZooTampa’s policies and procedures.
• Communicate safety instructions to guests and keep accurate rider counts.
• Provide knowledge transfer from animal care staff to guests to promote conservation messages.
• Support informal encounters and events.
• Offer program improvement ideas to Guest Engagement leadership.
• Maintain strong relationships with all departments to ensure overall program success.
• Attend training classes as assigned and develop new skills.
• Perform ancillary duties as needed.

Qualifications

• Valid Florida driver’s license with a clean driving record; at least five years of driving experience.
• Strong storytelling and public speaking skills; able to engage large groups.
• Background in education, environmental studies, or related field; equivalent experience acceptable.
• Ability to work independently with general direction from leadership.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Highly motivated, organized, high energy, and a positive team‑player attitude.
• Ability to deliver conservation messaging accurately and engagingly.
• Sound decision‑making in a fast‑paced environment.

Other Requirements

• Conduct all activities in alignment with AZA standards, laws, safety regulations, and animal welfare guidelines.
• Tolerate dust, fumes, animal dander, odor, loud noises, motion, and vibrations.
• Comfortable driving safari trucks for extended periods; able to drive golf carts as part of tours.
• Lead tours and talk to guests for extended periods.
• Withstand the typical Florida climate.
• Work weekends, holidays; flexible daily hours including evenings.
• Stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 lbs, bend over, move quickly, and interact with children.
• Clear communication with the general public.
• Adequate auditory and visual acuity and cognitive ability to safely operate vehicles.
• Use radio, telephone, and computer to communicate and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Willingness and ability to work varied and long shifts, including holidays and weekends.

Benefits

• Retirement 403(b) plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• Discounted gym membership
• Free membership to the Zoo, MOSI, Glazer Children’s Museum, and the Florida Aquarium
• Free or discounted admission to many Florida attractions
• Discounts on food, beverage, and merchandise
• And so much more!

Equal Opportunity Employer

ZooTampa is an Equal Opportunity Employer & Drug‑Free Workplace.