Exhibit Conservation Interpreter - Part Time Seasonal

Description

The Exhibit Conservation Interpreter is responsible for providing excellent guest experience to all Zoo visitors through professional, educational, and interactive experiences throughout Fresno’s Chaffee Zoo Corporation’s (FCZC) various exhibits. This job supports the mission and vision of the zoo by providing educational experiences that inspire a connection to the natural world using the Zoo’s resources and exhibits. This is a seasonal position lasting from March 2026 - September 2026.

We are pleased to offer this part‑time position an Employee Assistance Program, 401K, and Paid CA Sick Time earned on an accrued basis. The pay range for this position is $17.78 - $18.66 per hour. Offers will be based on the successful candidate’s experience.

• Provides guests of all ages and backgrounds with a memorable and educational experience focusing on applicable conservation connections. Answers guest questions with age‑appropriate information and encourages ongoing curiosity about animals and conservation.
• Effectively communicate the role the Zoo plays in both local and global conservation of species within and outside the Zoo.
• Engage and inspire varied audiences with on‑grounds conservation‑focused education on exhibits, animals, and natural habitats.
• Present on‑microphone exhibit orientation and instruction ranging from 2 - 7 minutes.
• Greet guests in a friendly, professional manner and demonstrate an approachable, service‑focused demeanor.
• Maintains accurate, up‑to‑date knowledge of the Zoo’s animals, including, but not limited to, natural history, animal names, behavior traits, and other details to inspire guest learning and enjoyment.
• Communicate with the public on contemporary environmental challenges and strategies.
• Support assigned onboarding staff members by modeling ideal Conservation Interpreter/Presenter habits and practices.
• Monitors guest activity and address violations of Zoo rules in a professional manner. Requests assistance from Management/Environmental Health and Safety as needed.
• Assists volunteers, school groups, animal husbandry, exhibit flow, and education programs as needed.
• Assisting leadership in the implementation of conservation projects, messaging, and themes to be used in exhibit programs.
• Assist with education and research projects which involve and reflect the Zoo’s exhibits and conservation messaging.
• Supports the needs of other zoo departments as requested via Conservation Interpretation leadership.
• Assist with the maintenance and cleanliness of exhibits and the surrounding areas.
• Assists with crowd control as needed during peak attendance periods and special events.
• Communicates effectively with the team and management.
• Adhere to the National Association for Interpretation (NAI) and Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) guidelines for guest education and interpretation.
• Perform additional responsibilities as assigned to support team and organizational goals.

• High School Diploma or equivalent (GED) degree preferred.
• Minimum of one (1) year’s experience in guest experience, education (environmental or formal), theater/acting, or interpretive occupations required.
• Strong verbal English communication skills required.
• Six (6) months to one (1) year of work, school, or volunteer experience in public speaking in settings like classes, 4H/FFA, theater roles, or interpretive roles is preferred.

These are the physical and mental requirements of the position as it is typically performed. Inability to meet one or more of these physical or mental requirements will not automatically disqualify a candidate or employee from the position. Upon requesting reasonable accommodation, the Zoo may be able to adjust or excuse one or more of these requirements, depending on the requirement, the essential functions to which it relates, and the proposed accommodation.

• Close visual acuity to perform activities such as preparing and analyzing data and figures, viewing a computer terminal, and extensive reading.
• Ability to receive detailed information through oral communication (in person and via telephone) at…