Job Openings >> Aquatic Exploration Guide (Full-TIme)
Aquatic Exploration Guide (Full-TIme)
Summary
Title:Aquatic Exploration Guide (Full-TIme)
ID:1474
Department:Learning & Community
Description

The Aquatic Exploration Guide is a member of the Aquatic Exploration team in the Learning & Community Division. Each team member is expected to exemplify and embody the Shedd mission & vision and bring the brand experience to life in all guest experiences. This position is responsible for delivering a variety of programs and experiences daily throughout the aquarium; and implements a range of experiences including special events, impromptu guest interactions, and various donor experiences.  The Aquatic Exploration Guide provides expert knowledge of of Shedd’s exhibits and collection, and facilitates the large scale Oceanarium experiences for thousands of guests daily.

Aquatic Exploration Guides help tailor and deliver Shedd’s Oceanarium experiences.  The scope of the role varies based on the needs of the experience.  There is a strong performance element in this role, and Exploration Guides will be in front of audiences as large as 1,000 guests at a time.  This position requires memorization of multiple program outlines, aquatic world content, and information related to taking action for animals.

The position requires a strong ability to apply improvisational techniques and dynamically engage audiences. Tailoring content to various audiences and rapidly adapting and evolving to guest and aquarium needs are important skills.  This position must have the ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.

Team Member Attributes:

As a member of the Aquatic Exploration team, each individual should possess the following qualities which will enable the team to achieve Shedd’s mission to spark compassion, curiosity and conservation for the aquatic animal world.

  • Positive attitude
  • Supportive of other team members
  • Proactive in bringing forward solutions to challenges
  • Maintain positive working relationships
  • Guest focus in all activities, passion for people
  • Ability to proactively engage guests
  • Valuing diverse perspectives
  • Creativity

The Shedd Way Charter

As ONE SHEDD the Aquatic Exploration team is expected to deliver an exceptional experience for other team members, staff, volunteers and internal and external guests. Each team member should demonstrate the Shedd WAY charter qualities including but not limited to:

  • Professional appearance
  • Positive body language
  • Seeking out guest contact
  • Listening and responding to others needs
  • Taking pride in Shedd
  • Delight in the animals in our care
  • Learning about and respecting those you work with

Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Demonstrate commitment to Shedd’s vision, mission and values
  • Memorize and perform multiple scripts and thematic outlines
  • Learn script/outline revisions, blocking adjustments, and ongoing program content updates
  • Proactively interact with the public and animal care team members
  • Dynamically engage guests about the aquatic world
  • Communicate to guests ways to take action to protect animals and our planet
  • Tailor content to various audiences, adapting key messages based on audience
  • Improvise and facilitate content based on audience responses, interest, and knowledge
  • Include the audience voice and participation elements in various experiences
  • Work near animals, strictly adhering to all established protocols
  • Serve as a role model to staff and volunteers for guest interactions and knowledge
  • Attend training workshops
  • Demonstrate continued growth in content knowledge and increased aptitude in program delivery/facilitation
  • Understand and take part in the operation throughout the building, including but not limited to:
    • Aquatic/Oceanarium Experiences
    • Program Facilitation
    • Participatory Engagements
  • Cooperate closely with management to set personal goals, hone skills, and receive feedback to enhance growth
  • Assist in orient and onboard new hires
  • Apply improvisational strategies in programs and experiences
  • Integrate feedback, ongoing coaching and direction in presentations and programs
  • Serve on interdepartmental teams
  • Other duties as needed or assigned

Qualifications:

Education:

  • High School diploma, GED or equivalent required.  Some college preferred.             

Experience:

  • Minimum of one year experience in public speaking required.
  • Two years’ experience in education, theatre and or improvisation preferred.
  • Experience delivering programs to a variety of audiences in a museum, zoo or aquarium setting preferred.
  • Experience in aquatic science and/or biology preferred.

Special Skills & Characteristics

  • Ability to maintain good vocal control with the ability to speak publicly for many hours each day without loss of voice.
  • Ability to effectively present information to and collaborate with colleagues and guests alike.
  • Ability to execute excellent public speaking skills and science teaching aptitude.
  • Ability to improvise due to variable animal activities and guest needs.
  • Ability to spend majority of the day interacting with the public and “on the go.”

We strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ community, veterans and active duty military, parents, individuals with disabilities, and individuals from all cultural backgrounds to apply. Shedd Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes everyone to our team.

If you need a reasonable accommodation at any point in the application or interview process, please let us know. In your application, please feel free to select which pronouns you use (For example – she/her/hers, he/him/his, they/them/theirs).

This opening is closed and is no longer accepting applications
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