Volunteer Interpretive Coordinator

POSITION SUMMARY

The Volunteer Interpretive Coordinator is a highly motivated and energetic individual committed to integrating the interpretive volunteer program into the guest experience. This individual recognizes the immense value of the volunteer program. This individual focuses primarily on supporting the zoo guide volunteer program under the direction of the Guest Engagement Supervisor and the Education Director. 

This individual is responsible for managing and overseeing volunteers within the organization. This includes tasks like interviewing potential volunteers, assigning roles based on their skills and interests, scheduling shifts, providing training, and maintaining accurate volunteer records to ensure the smooth operation of the interpretive volunteer program.

Utah’s Hogle Zoo has been a loved and trusted part of the community for over 90 years. Our mission is to create champions for wildlife by making connections between people and animals to inspire action. This is everyone’s job who joins us, regardless of the position they are hired for. If that is something that excites and inspires you, then we look forward to talking!

REPORTING RELATIONSHIP

Reports directly to the Guest Engagement Supervisor.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. This position assists the supervisor in managing the long-term planning and day-to-day operations of the interpretive volunteer program. Some of these tasks include but are not limited to: program rules and expectations, multi-year planning, interpretive strategies, working with other departments, and creating and presenting training materials and program materials.
2. Assists in performing evaluations of the interpretive volunteers and programs, daily schedule adjustments to meet program and staffing needs, and serves as a radio point of contact in both standard and emergency situations.
3. Provides support and is a resource for the interpretive volunteer program, serving as an exemplary model of behavior and skill for the volunteers and helping all interpreters brainstorm solutions to problems. Models appropriate behavior and professionalism as well as fosters constructive attitudes, and problem-solving and positively influences collaboration and teamwork.
4. Assists in leading volunteer and seasonal educator orientations, training, and mentorship for program delivery. 
5. Is familiar with the current research in informal/non-formal learning environments.
6. Exercises flexibility in dealing with program delivery and late-notice changes. Has the ability to pivot and adjust programming as needed to present smooth and polished seeming programs regardless of the situation. 
7. Collaborates closely with the rest of the Guest Engagement team to ensure that the interpretive volunteer program is aligned with the rest of the interpretive programming and that both programs support each other effectively.
8. Operates visual/audio equipment as needed.
9. Maintains a good rapport with Education, Volunteer, and Events staff.
10. Demonstrates a willingness to learn new information. Knowledge of animals and the outdoors is a plus. Able to quickly pick up and utilize new skills as needed.
11. Collaborates with the supervisor and Zoo Team members to ensure all guest, staff or volunteer issues/incidents are documented and addressed quickly and professionally.
12. Commitment to the zoo’s mission and conservation efforts.
13. Ability to work overtime as needed. 
14. Performs other duties as assigned.
15. Maintains strict confidentiality. 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE 

• A bachelor’s degree is required in education, environmental sciences, biology, museum studies, or related fields. Relevant experience may substitute for education.
• Must have training in basic teaching methods and informal educational techniques. 
• An understanding of concepts across multiple science disciplines.
• Spanish speaking preferred.
• Prefer a minimum of 3 years of interpretive training experience specifically working with volunteers in a non-profit setting.

DESIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Follow written and verbal instructions.
• Effective written and verbal communication.
• Apply critical thinking techniques.
• Analyze and solve problems.
• Prioritize work.
• Perform within deadlines.
• Work weekdays and weekends (including evening hours).  
• Ability to focus with interruptions and a shared workspace.
• Deal with stress caused by large crowds.
• Work well in a team environment as well as independently.
• Must work well with audiences of varying ages.
• Work indoors and outdoors in inclement weather.
• Multitask and manage time effectively.
• Respond to emergencies calmly and follow protocols.
• Consistently demonstrate judgment, high integrity, and personal values consistent with the values of Utah’s Hogle Zoo.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The incumbent performs in a typical office setting with appropriate climate controls and outside in all weather. Tasks require a variety of physical activities which do not generally involve muscular strain, but do require activities related to walking, standing, bending, stooping, sitting, reaching, talking, hearing, and seeing. Common eye, hand, and finger dexterity required to perform essential functions. Requires lifting of up to 30 lbs. 

Utah’s Hogle Zoo is a drug-free workplace. All employees are subject to random drug testing. The incumbent must provide a negative TB test prior to start date and maintain TB testing through course of employment.

Utah’s Hogle Zoo is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all.    

Apply for this position at: https://www.hoglezoo.org/jobs/