Encounter Interpreter Lead [Part-Time]

Encounter Interpreter Lead

Collaborate with a passionate Zoo Crew in San Antonio
Choosing where to grow your career has a major impact on your professional and personal life, so it’s equally important you know that the place you choose to work at will support and guide you. With a diversity of passionate people, San Antonio Zoo is a place where you can collaborate with others securing a future for wildlife.

As an Encounter Interpreter Lead, you will be responsible for supporting multiple areas of the zoo’s Animal Encounters department: Butterfly House, Flamingo Mingle, and Giraffe Deck. You will facilitate the day-to-day operations with Interpreters and Volunteers. You will train team members as needed. In this capacity, you will always hold yourself to the highest level of professionalism, guest service, and team assistance.

As an Encounter Interpreter Lead, you will have the opportunity to tap into your curiosity and collaborate with some of the most innovative and diverse people in San Antonio. Here, you will make an impact by:

• Train and coach Animal Encounters staff and volunteers.
• Ensure all operations follow Standard Operating Procedures.
• Establish and support par levels at encounters.
• Establish and support meaningful, conservation-based, guest interactions.
• Ensure encounters are opened and closed at proper times.
• Collaborate with zoo staff to ensure accurate dissemination of information as well as maximum use of the zoo’s resources to support conservation education.
• Uphold all company policies as outlined in the Team Member Handbook.
• Consistently exhibit an attitude of service inside and outside of the zoo, showing hospitality to all.
• Be fully committed to the mission of San Antonio Zoo® to create awareness that inspires action to care for the wild world we steward and animals we protect.

To set you up for success in this role from day one, the San Antonio Zoo recommends the following skills/qualifications:

• Self-starter, detail-oriented, and a positive attitude.
• Knowledge of zoology, ecology, animal behavior and related topics.
• Knowledge of interpretation and current guest experience trends.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills preferred.
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word is required.
• Ability to train and motivate staff/volunteers to engage Zoo guests in fun and effective conservation education encounters.
• Proven team player with strong leadership skills, positive outlook and ability to work effectively and diplomatically with diverse groups of people.
• Ability to organize be attentive to details, exercise sound judgment and respond effectively under pressure.
• Ability to train and coach new team members.
• Must be 18 years of age or older with a clean driving record for vehicle operation.
• This position requires a valid Class 'C' Texas Driver's License or a valid driver's license from another state with the ability to obtain a Class "C" Texas Driver's License within 45 days of becoming employed.
• Successful candidates must complete a pre-employment drug screening and background check.
• Must be able to work in varying climate and weather conditions (rain, snow, hot, or cold).
• We enjoy year-round operation for all staff, must be available day, nights, weekends, and occasional special after-hour assignments.

The San Antonio Zoo is an equal opportunity employer. San Antonio Zoo will not discriminate against any applicant for employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.