Do you enjoy working with the public? Would you like to learn more about the fascinating world of Aquatic Life and help educate others about it? If you answered yes, then the Guest Engagement behind-the scenes tour volunteer position at Shedd Aquarium would be a perfect fit for you! John G. Shedd Aquarium is seeking regular behind-the-scenes volunteers to interpret throughout the aquarium. Please reference the position description below.
Behind the Scenes Tour Volunteer
Position Description:
Behind-the-Scenes Volunteers engage guests scheduled for the paid Behind-the-Scenes Tour experience. This unique program takes place behind-the-scenes in the galleries and the laboratory and animal hospital. Responsibilities include welcoming guests, guiding them to tour locations, delivering the tours in the galleries, laboratory and animal hospital and answering questions. Behind-the-Scenes Tour Volunteers participate in trainings that provide content knowledge and presentation skills to prepare for tour delivery and trouble-shooting.
Responsibilities include:
- 60% Lead in the facilitation of the Behind-the-Scenes Tour experiences. Provide the highest level of volunteer-led engagement for participants by relaying accurate and relevant animal information and stories. In addition, provide superior guest service, creating a welcoming program atmosphere.
- 25% Engage guests visiting the exhibits using interpretation techniques. Share experiences from the Behind-the-Scenes Tour experience to promote the program and heighten guests’ interest in the animals and exhibits. Provide the highest level of volunteer-led engagement for participants by relaying accurate and relevant animal information. In addition, provide superior guest service, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
- 10% Participate in formal trainings and coaching to ensure, and further develop, effective interpretation skills and comprehensive content knowledge.
- 5% Meet with staff and other volunteers on an as-needed basis to review program content and logistics, propose modifications and identify growth opportunities.
- The shifts are from 9:00a.m. to 2:00p.m. or 1:00p.m. to 5:30p.m. This position requires a 6-month commitment for a weekday shift and a 1-year commitment for a weekend shift.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions!
Todd Maskel
Manager, Volunteer & Internship Programs
tmaskel {at} sheddaquarium(.)org
