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ZooTampa

Guest Engagement Guide I (Part-Time)

Tampa, FL · On-site

As a Guest Engagement Guide I , you will be the heartbeat of our Safari Expedition, Signature Encounters, and various interpretive experiences throughout the park. This role is perfect for someone ...

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NEXWDC Doctrine Editor

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Navy Expeditionary Warfighting Development Center (NEXWDC), Virginia Beach, VA Description: Provide ... Fleet CONOPS Writers Guide, and U.S. Government Printing Office Style Guide (series) for the ...

Lindblad Expeditions

Licensed Deckhand

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JOB SUMMARY As a Licensed Deckhand with Lindblad Expeditions, you'll do more than maintain ship operations-you'll help guide guests through some of the most remote and breathtaking places on Earth. A ...

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How much do expedition guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for expedition guide in the United States is $30.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $31.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Expedition Guides face during trips?

Expedition Guides often encounter unpredictable weather, shifting terrain conditions, and may need to quickly adapt plans to keep groups safe and on track. Managing group dynamics—such as differing skill levels, personalities, and client expectations—can also be a frequent challenge. Guides typically work in remote areas, which requires self-sufficiency, quick decision-making, and a calm demeanor in stressful situations. These realities make the job both demanding and highly rewarding for those who thrive in dynamic, outdoor settings.

What does an Expedition Guide do?

An Expedition Guide leads and supports groups on outdoor adventures, ensuring safety, navigation, and overall experience. They provide expertise in survival skills, terrain management, and environmental awareness. Guides may work in various settings, such as mountains, forests, or remote locations, tailoring trips to different skill levels. Their responsibilities include planning routes, assessing risks, and educating participants about the local environment. Strong leadership, first aid knowledge, and a passion for nature are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Expedition Guide position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Expedition Guide, you need strong outdoor skills, navigation abilities, and a solid understanding of safety protocols, often backed by certifications such as Wilderness First Responder (WFR) or similar. Familiarity with GPS units, satellite communication devices, and expedition planning software is typically required for modern guiding. Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help guides engage clients and manage group dynamics effectively. These competencies are crucial for ensuring both participant safety and an enjoyable, well-organized experience in challenging environments.

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Guest Engagement Guide I (Part-Time)

Guest Engagement Guide I (Part-Time)

ZooTampa at Lowry Park

Tampa, FL

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Join Our Team at ZooTampa and Drive Into Adventure as a Guest Engagement Guide.
This position would work a Friday/Saturday/Sunday schedule.
Your Role:

As a Guest Engagement Guide I, you will be the heartbeat of our Safari Expedition, Signature Encounters, and various interpretive experiences throughout the park. This role is perfect for someone who loves nature, thrives in an educational environment, and has a flair for engaging storytelling. Here’s what you’ll do:

  • Drive and Narrate: Safely operate a 32-passenger Ford F550 safari truck through rugged terrain, all while delivering captivating stories about our animals and conservation efforts. Your narrative will not only educate but also mesmerize our guests of all ages.
  • Engage and Educate: Develop a charismatic persona and maintain an energetic presence to make every tour memorable. Your interactions will help deepen the public's connection to wildlife conservation.
  • Support and Enhance: Assist in the loading and unloading of guests, including those using wheelchairs and mobility scooters, ensuring a welcoming environment for all.
  • Collaborate and Lead: Work closely with other departments to enhance the guest experience and act as a role model for new staff.

Who You Are:

  • You hold a valid FL driver’s license with a clean driving record and at least five years of driving experience, crucial for operating our large, automatic transmission Ford F550 safari trucks safely.
  • You’re a storyteller at heart, capable of engaging large groups with your knowledge and enthusiasm.
  • Your background in education, environmental studies, or a related field has prepared you to take on this dynamic role, although equivalent experiences are highly valued.

Take Action:

Are you ready to drive change and make lasting memories for our guests? Apply today to become a key player at ZooTampa! Embark on your journey with us and help bring conservation stories to life in a way only you can.

Who We Are
ZooTampa at Lowry Park is one of the most popular zoos in the southeastern U.S., with over 1.2 million visitors annually. We have grown to what now encompasses 56 acres of naturalistic wildlife habitats in a lush, tropical garden setting with wide-ranging activities. The Zoo, accredited by Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), offers popular educational programming, fun recreational amenities, up-close animal encounters and engaging seasonal events for which it has won awards as one of the country’s most family-friendly zoos.
Our mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and care for animals; create exceptional personalized experiences that connect people with wildlife and each other in fun, immersive ways.
Our vision is that everyone we touch is motivated to join us in taking action to protect and preserve wildlife.
Join us and become a part of creating unforgettable natural connections!
Your day to day
  • Facilitates Safari Expedition for guests of all ages.
  • Performs an educational and entertaining narrative while standing on the back of a moving truck, sharing animal information and conservation stories in a fun and engaging way.
  • Develops a unique character and performs with an energetic and upbeat attitude.
  • Remains in character throughout the experience, while engaging with guests and delivering a thematic and high-quality performance.
  • Drives 32-passenger safari trucks on unpaved roads through and around animal habitats.
  • Rotates between Safari Expedition roles continuously throughout the day.
  • Assists passengers in getting on and off vehicles.
  • Assists persons with disabilities/patrons of tours, including loading of wheelchairs.
  • Demonstrates safe operation of the safari trucks, including responding appropriately and assisting in potential emergency situations.
  • Consistently demonstrates excellent guest interaction and "hospitality" skills at all times.
  • Maintains a friendly, courteous attitude towards guests and gives assistance whenever possible.
  • Politely and diplomatically enforces safety and departmental rules and processes. Ensures that ZooTampa’s policies and procedures are carried out in all programs.
  • Fully understands all operating and safety procedures and communicates designated safety instructions to guests.
  • Keeps and documents accurate rider counts.
  • Ensures a high level of service and positive experience for visitors and program participants.
  • Supports the transfer of knowledge and expertise from the animal care staff and scientists to Zoo guests, with the goal of increasing the visibility of the Zoo’s conservation messages.
  • Supports informal Signature Encounters, in-park interpretive experiences and events for the Guest Engagement Department.
  • Offers ideas and recommendations on program changes and improvements to Guest Engagement leadership.
  • Maintains strong working relationships with all departments within the Zoo to help ensure the overall success of programs.
  • Acts as a positive role model for new staff.
  • Attends training classes as assigned to develop new skills and support the needs of the team.
  • Performs ancillary tour duties and other duties as needed.
What are we looking for?
  • Pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in education, environmental studies, or related field is preferred. A comparable amount of training and experience may be substituted for the minimum qualifications.
  • Must have a valid FL driver’s license, have/maintain driving record acceptable to the Zoo, and pass a driver physical.
  • Knowledge of modern day Zoos, the purposes and goals, and conservation themes and meanings.
  • Ability to work independently, with general direction from leadership.
  • Ability to manage workload as well as flexibility to quickly adapt to varying situations without jeopardizing the integrity of the program.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills, including ability to speak and present well in front of crowds and maintain control of large groups.
  • Highly motivated and organized with high energy and a positive team player attitude.
  • Ability to master and then deliver conservation messaging and in-park interpretive in fun and engaging manner with high degree of accuracy.
  • Ability to make sound decisions in a fast paced environment.
Other Requirements
  • Conducts all activities in alignment with AZA standards and guidelines, all relevant laws and regulations, safety standards, and standards that ensure animal welfare.
  • Must be able to tolerate exposure to dust, fumes, animal dander, odor, loud noises, motion, and vibrations.
  • Must be able to comfortably drive safari trucks for extended periods of time.
  • Must be able to comfortably drive golf cart vehicles as part of tours.
  • Must be able to lead tours and talk to guests for extended periods of time.
  • Must be able to withstand typical Florida climate.
  • Must be able to work on weekends, holidays, and flexible daily hours as well as various evening hours.
  • Must be able to stand for extended periods of time, lift up to 50 pounds, bend over, move quickly when necessary, and interact with children at their level.
  • The ability to clearly communicate with the general public.
  • Adequate auditory and visual acuity and cognitive ability to safely operate tour vehicles or other equipment.
  • Ability to use radio, telephone, and computer to communicate and follow written and verbal instructions.
  • Must be willing and able to work varied and long shifts including holidays and weekends.
Our Perks at ZooTampa
  • Retirement 403(b) plan
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Discounted gym membership
  • Free membership to the Zoo, MOSI, Glazer Children's Museum, and the Florida Aquarium
  • Free or discounted admission to many attractions in Florida
  • Discounts on food, beverage, and merchandise
  • And so much more!
Equal Opportunity Employer amp; Drug-Free Workplace

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