Docent Volunteer Program; Unpaid

DOCENT VOLUNTEER PROGRAM

Department:
Conservation & Education

Location:

Zoo-Wide

Reports to:

Conservation & Education Volunteer Contact

The purpose of the Docent volunteer program is to enhance the guest experience through welcoming and engaging interactions around the Zoo & Aquarium. Docents assist the Zoo's Conservation & Education Department by providing educational experiences for visitors and the community that reflect current information about conservation, the natural world, and its diversity. Docents provide interpretation throughout the Zoo & Aquarium, and, under the discretion of leadership, may have the opportunity to expand their duties to assist with tours, department programs both on and off Zoo grounds, and facilitate animal encounters.

Please note, selected candidates will complete Zoo onboarding and orientation in February and/or March. Upon successful completion, Docent Training will take place in March.

• Promote the Zoo’s mission, events, and programs to connect all audiences to each other, the natural world, and conservation.
• Maintain a general understanding of the Kansas City Zoo and Aquarium animals, conservation projects and sustainability initiatives to effectively communicate appropriate conservation messaging to audiences.
• Work autonomously as an effective team member, and contact leadership when assistance is needed.
• Maintain a positive disposition and practice active listening during interactions.

• Deliver engaging animal interpretation throughout the Zoo & Aquarium to tell the stories of our animals and actions guests can take to help them.
• Enhance the guest experience by initiating conversations, answering questions, and educating about the animals.
• Embrace a variety of teaching and learning styles as appropriate for each engagement.
• Work to consistently improve knowledge of animal welfare, interpretation techniques, and science education techniques.
• Support organization, upkeep, and maintenance of educational materials.

• This position may at times be requested to perform other duties or special projects as assigned, which are in the best interest of the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium.
• All volunteers must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily and, upon request, reasonable accommodations will be evaluated to enable volunteers with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their position, absent undue hardship.

This position is based on completion of hours attained for a period of one year. After one year, the position may be reappointed for another year at the discretion of the supervisor.

In the first year, this position must complete training and a minimum of 30 hours. After the first year, this position must complete 60 hours per year. Shifts and schedules vary and are flexible.

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Positive, guest‑centered attitude and dependable.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Willing to be in all weather extremes.
• Able to be stationary for extended periods of time.
• Must pass a background screening.

Training for this position will be provided. In addition, the Volunteer Contact, as well as the employees of the Conservation & Education Department, will be available for questions and assistance.

Neutral colored pants or shorts, provided shirt, comfortable shoes, and weather appropriate outerwear.

Individuals currently employed at the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium are not eligible to participate in the Zoo’s volunteer program.