POSITION: Education Assistant - Tour Guide
Description:
California Wolf Center (CWC) is a nonprofit organization founded in 1985 whose
mission is dedicated to the return of wild wolves to their natural habitat and to the people
who share the landscape with them. We foster communities coming together to ensure
wolves, livestock and people thrive in today's world. We achieve our mission through
three core areas Education, Conservation, and Research. CWC is a partner in the AZA
SAFE (Saving Animals from Extinction) Mexican gray wolf. We annually host more
than 500 tours at our conservation facility located approximately five miles from
downtown Jullian where visitors can see our two ambassador packs in large park-like
habitats. We strive to educate all ages about the important role the wild wolf has in
restoring a healthy nature ecosystem.
Join our Pack and put your passion for wildlife and conservation to work in a way that is
rewarding, meaningful, and fun!
CLASSIFICATION: Part-time; Non-Exempt
Hourly Range: $16.00 - $17.00/Hour
Reports to: Education Manager
Location: The location of the Center is in Julian, California, about 55 miles from the
center of San Diego. Primary work will take place at the Center which is located in San
Diego's mountains. The office and the environment are rural. However, the work of the
California Wolf Center is national in scope with participation in the AZA SAFE Mexican
gray wolf.
Summary:
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR: Our Tour Guides serve as the voice of the California
Wolf Center by providing an engaging, educational tour that introduces guests to our two
ambassador wolf packs of Mexican gray wolves and North American gray wolves that
are in-human care at CWC. You will also share our passion for wild wolf conservation
and the leadership role we have in the community working to restore wolves to the
wildlands they once roamed. Work or volunteer experience in public speaking and guest
service is necessary. Spanish language skills are a plus. Ability to work as part of a small
team with a mix of paid staff and volunteers is a must!
Responsibilities:
● Performs as the organization's public relations representative in the Education
Department.
● Works as part of a team for Tour Logistics including vehicle escort, guest
check-in, parking directions and gift shop attendant at end of tour.
● Presents educational information in a thought provoking manner to tour groups
ranging from private small groups of four to sold-out tours of thirty at the
Conservation Center.
● Presents a positive, friends and outgoing image.
● Conducts tours in an organized, safe and timely manner on paths, walkways and
behind the scenes areas.
● Interacts with tour patrons continuously and courteously.
● Conducting an average of three to four tours per shift focused on CWC’s Mission
and key messages, providing a warm and engaging guest experience.
● Educates the public and maintains the organization’s image of goodwill.
● Handle repetition and unruly guest behavior.
● Handle physical and medical emergencies.
● Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
● The ability to communicate scientific ideas from wolf and canid biology, zoology
and environmental science clearly to diverse audiences.
● The ability to communicate with tact and problem-solve in the moment is a must.
● Receptive to feedback and comfortable shifting directions with the needs of the
team.
● Training and/or experience which would demonstrate the essential functions,
knowledge and skills outlined.
● Past experience or training/education in the life sciences and prior experience in
public speaking.
● Ability to use online ticketing software for tour confirmations and check-in.
Education & Requirements:
● Current valid California driver’s license and the ability to reliably commute to the
Conservation Center.
● Wildlife Conservation or Zoology/Biology with special attention to the care and
unique qualities of the wolves in residence.
● Associates degree or higher preferred but not required.
● Must be able to work weekends, Fridays and Mondays and some evenings.
● Must be 16 years of age or older.
Benefits:
● Complimentary tour tickets for you and family members.
● In-House Discount at CWC Nature Store.
How to apply:
Please send resumes to jacob@californiawolfcenter.org or fill out an in person application at our
Nature Store located in downtown Julian at 2775 B St. Julian, CA 92036.