Based on our internal equity review process, the starting hourly wage for this position will be $18.13
This position starts April 15^th and has a flexible end date of September or October 2026. A limited number of year-round positions may be available at that point and can be discussed with the supervisor.

Parks Tacoma is an independent park district in Pierce County, Washington, proudly accredited by both the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) & the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA). As a leader in promoting a healthy, sustainable community, Parks Tacoma manages a diverse range of facilities that provide our communities with exceptional recreational opportunities—from local neighborhood parks and scenic waterfront access to large regional attractions. Serving as both a vital community resource and a regional destination, Parks Tacoma plays a central role in enhancing quality of life throughout the area.

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is the only combined zoo and aquarium in the Pacific Northwest. Located within the scenic 700-acre Point Defiance Park, the 29-acre zoological park offers breathtaking views of Mount Rainier, the Olympic Mountains, and Puget Sound. Since its founding in 1905, the Zoo has welcomed over 800,000 visitors annually and remains a beloved regional destination. Accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium upholds the highest standards in animal welfare, veterinary care, conservation, and education.
Our Mission: Awakening a connection to Wild Life with everyone in the Pacific Northwest.  Learn more pdza.org

Position Information - Conservation Engagement Interpreters deliver engaging, informal educational opportunities for guests that support Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium’s mission of awakening a connection to wildlife with everyone in the Pacific Northwest. Interpreters oversee guest interactions with marine invertebrates at the Tidal Touch Zone and Tropical Reef Aquarium touch experiences. This includes demonstration of proper touching as well as conveying empathy and conservation messages. Interpreters act as Theater Hosts during live animals shows at the Wild Wonders Outdoor Theater, maintaining a safe and enjoyable experience by providing kind and gentle direction to audience members.

We are looking for individuals with great people skills (especially with children!) who are able to work as part of a team and independently, are energetic, flexible, creative, with a positive sense of humor and a passion for the environment!

  [NOTE: this is not an animal handling position.]    [NOTE: this is not a foreign language interpretation position. Please see the National Association for Interpretation for a formal definition: HERE]

In the performance of their respective tasks and duties all employees are expected to:

• Perform quality work within deadlines with or without direct supervision.
• Interact professionally with other employees, customers and suppliers.
• Work effectively as a team contributor on all assignments.
• Work independently while understanding the necessity for communicating and coordinating work efforts with other employees and organizations.
• Observe applicable safety requirements, use safety equipment provided, implement appropriate safety practices at all times and report immediately any unsafe working conditions or hazards.

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