Animal Encounter Ambassador

JOB TITLE: Animal Encounter Ambassador

DEPARTMENT: Learning and Engagement

REPORTS TO: Visitor Engagement Manager

Term/Hours: Part-time 20-24hr/wk, mix of weekdays and weekends.

Start Date: May 2024

Posting Closes: Open until filled. We will begin reviewing applications as received.

JOB SUMMARY

Animal Encounter Ambassadors play an integral role in the Aquarium's Learning and Engagement Department by creating personalized and memorable experiences for on-site visitors. The duties include communicating safe ways to interact with fish and other encounter animals, such as invertebrates, mammals and reptiles. Ambassadors provide information related to wayfinding, the Aquarium's mission, exhibits, animals, and programs. The Animal Encounter Ambassador will communicate with staff and visitors using both a radio and wireless microphone.

This position requires working during weekdays and weekends, with occasional evening events and holidays. Shifts are 4-8 hours between 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Set up and close touch pools and/or information desk for the day using existing equipment.
• Approach and interact with guests in a welcoming, enthusiastic manner.
• Guide positive interactions between visitors and touch pool animals and provide engaging interpretation.
• Learn proper animal handling procedures and gain skills to present these animals in front of the public.
• Communicate with visitors regarding daily events and special programming.
• Follow enhanced cleaning protocols for all staff spaces.
• Keep supervisor informed of any ideas or ways to improve existing equipment or supplies.
• Refer animal and visitor safety concerns to appropriate Aquarium staff.
• All other job related duties as assigned by supervisor.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check.

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Must be friendly and courteous.
• Must be able to communicate effectively in noisy, crowded conditions.
• Must be comfortable with public speaking and willing to use a wireless microphone.
• Must be comfortable approaching visitors when there is a need to enforce GLA policies, including pandemic-related policies.
• Must be able to approach visitors and engage them in conversation.
• Must be able to present material and answer questions in a clear and understandable manner and be willing to refer questions you are unable to answer to other Learning and Engagement staff.
• Must be able to do light cleaning.
• Must be able to work safely around animals and their habitats.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS and/or WORK ENVIRONMENT

The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an interpreter to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the interpreter will be required to work in the Aquarium exhibit space. Touch pool interpreter shifts usually last four to eight hours and require standing or sitting for an extended period of time. Individuals are required to manipulate objects used for interpretive demonstration purposes. This position requires the ability to talk and hear. The noise level in the work environment is moderate to high.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

Experience in museum/environmental education, public speaking or customer service is preferred.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

Starting rate is $12.00/hr. This is a part-time position. A retention increase is awarded after 300 hours worked. After working their first 300 hours, Ambassadors receive a $0.50/hour raise.

Benefits include: Earned Sick and Safe Time in keeping with the City of Duluth's ordinance, free waterfront parking when space is available, discount on Aquarium programs and gift shop items, and free admission to the Aquarium. Great Lakes Aquarium promotes a fun and collaborative work environment!

QUESTIONS

Please contact Visitor Engagement Manager, Ryan Kolka, rkolka@glaquarium.org

EOAA STATEMENT

Great Lakes Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer. Great Lakes Aquarium shall provide equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

Great Lakes Aquarium aims to be a supportive community for all people. If you are a job seeker with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to apply for this position, please connect with our HR representative, Annie Thors at (218) 740-2001 or athors@glaquarium.org .