Role Summary
Wildlife Champions (WC) are the conservation educators of the Zoo! Standing outside animal enclosures, they teach guests about our animals, conservation and the environment. This is more than just spitting out facts. All WC’s receive training in basic empathy-building and interpretation communication techniques that help our guests better connect with and understand our animals. Champions complete check-ins twice during the summer that allow them to move onto more difficult animals and topics. This is a very addictive role, and one perfectly suited for those who enjoy sharing knowledge with their fellow humans.
Responsibilities
- Welcome guests to animal exhibits
- Start conversations with interested guests about animals, conservation and zoos
- Use engaging body language
- Ask open-ended, exploratory questions
- Use vocabulary appropriate to the age of the guest
- Utilize empathy and interpretation training to help guests connect with animals
- Teach guests about conservation actions they can take to care for wildlife and the environment
- Learn about HVZ animals and conservation efforts
- (Optional) Interpret during important animal transitions such as: births, health procedures, moves, specialized trainings, etc.