Wildlife Interpreter: Engage Guests & Animal Ambassadors

Virginia Zoo; Norfolk (VA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

The Virginia Zoo in Norfolk, VA is seeking individuals to conduct daily informal programming, engage guests through interpretation programs, and assist with animal ambassadors during events and parties. The role emphasizes education, outreach, and data collection to support conservation efforts.

Ideal candidates have strong communication and organizational skills, willingness to work weekends/evenings, and a commitment to guest experiences. Training on animal handling will be provided.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Excellent interpersonal, customer service, and presentation abilities.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Proven organizational, time management, and task-prioritization skills.
• Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving capability.
• Ability to engage and speak to large groups for extended periods.
• Ability to follow policies, procedures, and supervisor directives.

Responsibilities

• Conduct daily informal programming and guest engagement through various interpretation programs.
• Contribute to preparing, setting up, executing and cleaning up informal guest experiences.
• Conduct conservation engagement activities during special events.
• Contribute to designing interpretive activities and programming.
• Maintain guest engagement and personal calendars.
• Work with adult and teen volunteers in activities, training, and interpretation.
• Collect and report data on guest interactions, program attendance, and biofact usage.
• Follow Animal Ambassador team protocols to safely and independently handle and transport animal ambassadors.
• Maintain current animal handling certification through ongoing practice and training.
• Animal Ambassadors include invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and small mammals.
• Safely and independently handle Animal Ambassadors for zoo birthday parties and conservation programs.
• Assist Animal Ambassador Team with animal husbandry (habitats, diets, feeding, cleaning transports).
• Follow policies and procedures related to programming, scheduling, tracking, and documentation.
• Remain up to date on animal and conservation information using Mission Engagement resources.
• Maintain conservation engagement resources as new information is added.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Customer service

Presentation skills

Organizational skills

Time management

Problem solving

Public speaking

Policy compliance

Teamwork

Animal knowledge

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

The Virginia Zoo in Norfolk, VA is seeking individuals to conduct daily informal programming, engage guests through interpretation programs, and assist with animal ambassadors during events and parties. The role emphasizes education, outreach, and data collection to support conservation efforts.

Ideal candidates have strong communication and organizational skills, willingness to work weekends/evenings, and a commitment to guest experiences. Training on animal handling will be provided.