Interpretive Guide I

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens; Jacksonville (FL); On-site; USD 28,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is seeking an enthusiastic Interpretive Guide I to engage visitors and promote wildlife conservation. In this role, you will lead interactive experiences and share conservation stories with guests of all ages. Ideal candidates will possess a high school diploma, strong communication skills, and a passion for informal education.

Join a diverse team committed to inspiring communities about wildlife while ensuring guest safety and enjoyment in a vibrant outdoor environment.

Qualifications

• 1–2 years of experience in education, customer service, or interpretation.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to engage diverse audiences.
• Genuine passion for wildlife and conservation.

Responsibilities

• Lead interactive guest experiences.
• Share compelling conservation stories tailored to audiences.
• Ensure guest behavior and animal welfare are monitored.

Skills

Verbal communication

Public speaking

Customer service

Team collaboration

Organizational skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Bachelor's degree in related field (preferred)

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Reports To: Interpretive Engagement Supervisor

Schedule: Flexible availability required, including evenings, weekends,

and holidays

ABOUT THE ROLE

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 elevate 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.

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 Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens is an Equal Opportunity and Drug Free Employer.