Zoo Education Interpreter

Zoo Education Interpreter

Location: Saint Louis Zoo – Forest Park

Department: Education

Classification: Non-Exempt/Hourly

Position Type: Part-Time/Seasonal

Salary: March to November starts at $15.50;
May to August starts at $15.00

Position Summary: The Zoo Education Interpreter is part of the Interpretive Team, celebrating the natural world by facilitating Zoo‑wide experiences for guests to connect with animals, mission, nature, and conservation stories.

• Engage with guests throughout the Zoo and at exhibits such as Stingrays at Caribbean Cove, Penguin Puffin Coast, Cypress Swamp, Sea Lion Tunnel, and Butterfly Dome.
• Deliver scheduled interpretive programs that focus on guest‑centered and positive interactions.
• Provide mission‑driven interpretive training, including the use of props, costumes, bio‑facts, and ongoing coaching.

• March to November:
  Must be available for training and work beginning March 10.
• May to August (dates TBA):
  Must be available for trainings, virtual and in‑person, starting early May.

• High School Diploma or equivalent required with at least 1–2 years of post‑secondary or life/work experience.
• Some college or experience in science, education, theatre/performing arts, and/or interpretation preferred.
• Ability to provide exceptional guest service to staff, volunteers, and guests.
• Flexibility, independence, and the ability to work efficiently in a high‑energy outdoor public environment.
• Strong public speaking and interactive communication skills with an energetic personality.
• Positive attitude, self‑motivation, resourcefulness, adaptability, proactivity, and forward thinking.
• Foreign language and/or American Sign Language skills are a plus.
• Experience in informal, outdoor, environmental education is helpful.
• National Association for Interpretation certificate is a plus.
• All successful candidates must undergo a criminal background check and a drug test (five substances, including marijuana).

• Work outdoors in all weather conditions for up to 4 hours at a time while moving about the Zoo.
• Work in contact with salt water and shellfish.

• Hours include weekends, holidays, and early/late shifts.

The world‑renowned Saint Louis Zoo is dedicated to saving species and bringing people and wildlife together. The Zoo cares for approximately 12,000 animals, many of which are endangered, and is committed to local and global conservation.

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