Seasonal Learning Interpreter

Summary

The position engages with guests on the exhibit floor, maintaining the different stations around the Center e.g., touch tank, aviary, and education stations. Candidates will be expected to interpret live and static exhibits to the visiting public, monitor groups during their self‑guided tours, and teach interactive marine science programs to groups, including day programs, summer camp experiences, pop‑up program, and behind‑the‑scenes tours.

The interpreter is required to work a flexible schedule to accommodate variable hours, including early mornings, evenings and weekends as needed. This position is responsible for connecting visitors to the mission of the Alaska Sea Life Center (ASLC). Each day is some combination of the tasks below. This position will have daily interaction with public programs, education, exhibits, husbandry, and research personnel.

High school diploma or GED; or equivalent experience;
Study in biology, marine science, or a related field is a plus. Previous customer service experience preferred. Experience in performing arts, narrating, hosting, or similar is a plus.

Current high school students with a passion for science and the environment, volunteering experience, demonstration of time management through participation in extracurricular activities, or a combination and equivalent of the above are qualified. Must be at least 14 years of age, as required for permitting.

• Interpret all of the Alaska Sea Life Center’s static and live animal exhibits housing marine mammals, birds, fish, and invertebrates. Help maintain the physical appearance of manned exhibits and deliver announcements over the public address system.
• Assists with daily operations, including opening and closing, answering emails, group check‑in and orientation, and customer service.
• Present briefings, lectures, presentations, multi‑media shows, structured and impromptu talks, and guided tours by learning to employ appropriate interpretive techniques and devices geared to the characteristics and interest of particular audiences.
• Deliver a variety of scheduled programs and activities emphasizing conservation, empathy and diversity. Programs and activities may include family and community programs, narrating animal feeds and training sessions, leading group tours, pop‑up programs, and daily guest interpretive opportunities throughout the center for guests of all ages.
• Enhances the visitor experience by providing information and “connection” to the ASLC’s exhibits and providing exceptional customer service when interacting with visitors and answering general inquiries.
• Supervises visitor use of the touch tank and open‑air aviary.
• May assist with welcoming tour groups or encounters to interested visitors.
• May assist in development of interpretive presentations and programing.
• Fosters good relations with visitors, volunteers, teachers, and fellow staff members by promoting positive attitudes, goodwill, and cooperation and providing high standards of service.
• Complies with all Alaska Sea Life Center policies, procedures, and programs.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

• Must be able to speak in public, have outstanding oral communication and presentation skills, be dynamic and engaging and comfortable presenting information to a range of group sizes; able to communicate effectively to all ages and learning abilities.
• Self‑motivated, reliable, enthusiastic, energetic personality and positive attitude.
• Able to perform multiple tasks simultaneously, calmly, and efficiently in a high‑pressure setting.
• Use independent judgment, personal experience, and training to ensure quality guest interactions according to ASLC policy.

• Job requires the ability to stand for extended periods of time. More than 50% of the typical workday may be spent walking, sitting, standing, and using repetitive motions of the wrists, hands or fingers.
• Sensory abilities require vision, touching, and feeling, with more than 50% of the day spent communicating, including talking and hearing.
• Job requires flexibility and availability in schedule. Required to work weekends,…