Guest Engagement Facilitator

Lincoln Park Zoo inspires communities to create environments where wildlife will thrive in our urbanizing world. The zoo is a leader in local and global conservation, animal care and welfare, learning, and science. A historic Chicago landmark founded in 1868, the not-for-profit Lincoln Park Zoo, is a privately-managed, member-supported organization and is free and open 365 days a year. Visit us at lpzoo.org. 

GENERAL SUMMARY

Guest Engagement Facilitator advance the mission and vision of Lincoln Park Zoo by interpreting the animal care, conservation and science, and community initiatives of Lincoln Park Zoo to guests. By leading the majority of interpretive programs that happen on zoo grounds, you will be responsible for facilitating inspiring learning experiences and providing excellent guest service to all visitors.

We are seeking individuals with strong presentation and interpersonal skills who enjoy interacting with people and have a passion for storytelling. In this role, you will also support the growth and development of Guest Engagement Volunteers and Fellows by modeling interpretive best practices and providing coaching and feedback.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Deliver the majority of interpretive programs on zoo grounds and virtually. This includes narrating care or research sessions between keepers/researchers and animals, facilitating animal encounters and other experiences, leading virtual chats on zoolife, and conducting other presentations on nature and science themes as requested


• Communicate messages clearly to guests using a microphone, in one-on-one interactions, and in virtual settings


• Serve as a credible source of information about various zoo topics


• Communicate on-grounds needs proactively and regularly to team and supervisor


• Mentor Guest Engagement Fellows and Guest Engagement Volunteers by modeling effective interpretation, doing routine observational rounds, and providing coaching and feedback on interpretive techniques


• Assist with on-grounds day of supervisory support, scheduling needs, and communication for fellows and volunteers


• Facilitate daily resource material inventory, upkeep, and volunteer visitor impressions


• Lead pre-shift meetings for Guest Engagement Volunteers


• Facilitate programs alongside Guest Engagement Fellows and Guest Engagement Volunteers


• Support other Learning Department programs and zoo-wide special events as needed. This might include conducting exhibit-based chats for campers, mingling at donor receptions, or facilitating interpretive programs for a public evening event


• Assist with training and on-boarding of interpretive staff and volunteers


• Collaborate with Guest Engagement team to help develop and prototype new programs


• Help maintain quick edits to interpretive content resources


• Maintain material inventory of program resources for the team


• Support program and audience evaluation as needed


• Perform various tasks and other duties as assigned
  
  

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Uses proven practices in interpretation to engage guests of all ages, abilities, backgrounds, and knowledge levels


• Fosters an understanding of interpretive techniques in others


• Comfortable leading programs for small groups and large audiences of 50 – 500 people


• Maintains flexible, problem-solving approach to daily responsibilities


• Interacts positively and respectfully with colleagues, volunteers, and zoo guests


• Communicates clearly and concisely; has excellent oral and written communication skills


• Promotes positive team dynamics by working well with others and independently


• Adept as using electronic devices to communicate, gather, and share information, including A/V equipment, web-based communication platforms, cell phones/texting and handheld radios


• Must have working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook


• Fluency in a second language and/or American Sign Language a plus
  
  

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Undergraduate degree in biology, zoology, education, communication, or similar field; or up to three years of related work experience


• Previous experience in an interpretive role at a museum, zoo, nature center, park, or similar setting  


• Certificate in Interpretive Guiding from the National Association for Interpretation preferred; credential will be provided if not already earned
  
  

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Able to move a rolling cart weighting up to 250 pounds and transport supplies weighing up to 20 pounds


• Capable of independently traversing across zoo grounds, remaining stationary for long periods of time, and working in a variety of weather conditions


• Must be able to work a Tuesday – Saturday schedule on site, as well as holidays and evenings as required

COMPENSATION

• The salary of this position is $46,500 and includes a full benefit package. 

Our Commitment

Lincoln Park Zoo is committed to an environment that is inclusive and welcoming. We celebrate the diverse qualities, perspectives, values, and experiences of all people.  For Wildlife. For All.

LINCOLN PARK ZOO BENEFITS

In addition to such standard benefits ( Blue Cross Blue Shield)  as medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverages, and a 403(b) savings plan with an institutional match, benefits of working at the zoo include (benefits are for regular full time employees):

• Free admission to many other Chicago cultural institutions


• Free on-site parking anytime with access to Lincoln Park, Lakeshore Trail, and North Avenue Beach


• Discounts on event tickets (free admission to select events), attractions, dining, and retail at the zoo


• Quarterly staff mingle events and “LPZooU” training and educational sessions about the zoo, wildlife, ecology, and related subjects


• Company contribution to Health Savings Account (Medical PPO only)


• A working environment with green spaces and regularly available visits with wildlife!