WZ Overnight Lookout Lodge Host (Part Time / Seasonal 6 Months

We’re ZSL, an international conservation charity. Our vision is a world where wildlife thrives and we’re working every day to achieve this. From investigating the health threats facing animals, to helping people and wildlife live alongside each other, we are committed to bringing wildlife back from the brink of extinction. Through the work of our pioneering scientists, our dedicated conservationists and our unrivalled animal experts in our two zoos, we guide and enable others in the UK and all across the world. Inspiring, informing, empowering – working for wildlife.

Role Profile

We are looking for hosts to enthrall, engage and interact with guests through hosting the popular Lookout Lodge Overnight experience. We are passionate about our animals and you will have a talent for inspiring that same passion in our guests, giving them a once in a lifetime experience after hours at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo.

Your days will be spent guiding guests around the zoo on driven and walking tours, some after dark, whilst inspiring, entertaining and educating them about the animals and work of ZSL. We understand that our visitors can be as varied as the amazing animals we have at ZSL and our hosts are just as confident interacting with our youngest first time visitors as with our lifetime supporters.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Welcome guests, and create a safe, relaxed and fun environment
• Entertain and engage guests with animal talks / tours around the zoo
• Be the first point of call for any guest issues i.e. late comers, complaints etc. Oversee and resolve, liaise with other ZSL staff if needed
• Ensure the talks and tours are exciting and engaging, help deliver the experience effectively to a high standard in order to achieve the educational and visitor enjoyment targets set by ZSL

Person Specification

• Previous experience presenting public talks, shows or events.
• Excellent communication skills, an enthusiasm for the natural world and be flexible to ensure that every guest has a great experience.
• Good organisational / planning skills with the ability to work within strict deadlines.
• Prior experience of working with children is essential, ideally in an informal learning context.
• An Animal related and/or Performance degree course or equivalent qualification or work experience (desirable).
• Prior Front of house work or dealing with customers, visitors and guests face to face.
• A Full UK driving licence (essential).
• A First Aid at Work certificate/qualification (desirable).

Shift patterns are offered on a set basis and will include a combination of early morning (6.45am-10.15am) or evening (4-10.30pm) shifts. There will also be some overnight work along with regular weekend and bank holiday working.

Please note: Applicants will need to attend training sessions and MUST be able to start on 29th May.

To Apply

Applicants will need to upload their CV and covering letter (detailing relevant experience and skills, stating why they want the position and including details of availability) and can do this by clicking the "Apply for this job online" button.