Job Information
Alaska SeaLife Center Seasonal Program Interpreter in Seward, Alaska
Summary:
This position engages with guests on the exhibit floor, maintains the different stations around the Center (e.g., touch tank, aviary, and activity desks), and may present programs and lead Behind the Scenes encounters. The position will be expected to interpret live and static exhibits to the visiting public, present interactive marine science programs to groups, and monitor groups during their self guided tours. This position is responsible for connecting visitors to the mission of the Alaska SeaLife
Center (ASLC). Each day is some combination of the tasks above. This position will have daily interaction with public programs, education, exhibits, husbandry, and research personnel.
Education/Experience:
An associate degree in biology, marine science, or a related field; or high school diploma or GED; or equivalent experience. Previous customer service job preferred. Experience in performing arts, narrating, hosting, or similar 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 equivalent to the above are qualified. Must be at least 14 years of age, as required for permitting. Ability to speak and write clearly and concisely in fluent English is required. Ability to speak or write another language including ASL is a plus.
Essential Duties:
Interprets all of the Alaska SeaLife Center’s static and live animal exhibits housing marine mammals,
birds, fish, and invertebrates to enhance the visitor experience by providing information and context
for “connection” to the ASLC’s exhibits.
Assists with daily operations, including opening and closing, answering emails, group check-in and
orientation. Provides exceptional customer service when interacting with visitors and answering
general inquiries.
Help maintain the physical appearance of staffed exhibits and deliver announcements over the
public address system.
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. 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.
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 SeaLife Center policies, procedures, and programs.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
Other Skills and Abilities:
Must be able to speak in public, have outstanding oral communication and presentation skills, able dynamic and engaging, 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.
Uses independent judgment, personal experience and training to ensure quality guest interactions according to ASLC policy.
Physical Requirements:
Ability to see, hear, and speak English; move about for up to 8 hours; use arms and hands;
handle objects, tools, and controls. Ability to lift and move 20 pounds.
This job requires extended periods of time on the exhibit floor which may include walking sitting
standing and using repetitive motions of the wrists hands or fingers.
Job requires ongoing interactions with people. More than 50% of the typical workday is spent
communicating with visitors in a busy environment.
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by the
employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable
accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential
functions.
Working Conditions:
Job requires flexibility and availability in schedule. Required to work weekends, evenings and
holidays.
This position provides on-the-job training on the animals, exhibits, research, and programs
specific to the ASLC will be provided.
Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums
APPLICATION DEADLINE: OPEN UNTIL FILLED
START DATE: 4/1/2024 - 5/1/2024 END DATE: 9/03/2024
PAY RATE: $15.50-18.50
Eligible for a bonus upon completion of the agreed to end date of the position.