Interpretation Officer at Chester Zoo (UK)

Chester Zoo is one of Europe’s leading Zoological collections and has an active and award-winning Discovery and Learning Division. We are seeking to recruit a new Interpretation Officer whose role is to maximise the visitor learning experience through the design of themed exhibits and the planning and installation of imaginative and inspirational visitor communication. Schemes include interactive elements and audio visual productions in addition to the more traditional zoo educational signage. Chester Zoo receives 1.3 million visitors a year and visitor communications have to take likely visitor use, choice of robust materials and sturdy mechanisms into account during the design process.

The Interpretation Officer is responsible for driving forward the provision of accurate and exciting information about the animals on exhibit, the role of zoos and the wider conservation landscape and ensuring that brand identity is consistently applied. The post involves liaising with marketing staff, curators, and the education team in the zoo, and with a range of outside contractors including artists, designers and trades. Interpretation schemes must be DDA compliant and applicants must be familiar with health and safety standards and writing Risk Assessments.

Qualifications/Experience:
Applicants should be educated to degree level in project planning and interpretation design, museum studies or similar or qualified by experience in a similar role in the leisure attraction, museum, heritage site or living collection sector.

Applicants should have budgeting experience, excellent creative writing and proof-reading skills and the ability to produce work that is scientifically accurate. Up to date knowledge of emerging communications technology is required to allow for innovative design to be incorporated into visitor communications. This role involves interaction and consultation with a wide range of people and requires a confident and outgoing personality, excellent communication skills, attention to detail and a strong sense of aesthetics. A good knowledge of natural history, the role of zoos and current conservation and environmental issues will be an advantage.

Salary/funding:
Work is a five-day week, Monday to Friday with occasional need for weekend working. Salary is £17,854 per annum for a 35 hour working week.

Term of Appointment:
Full-time Permanent Position

Application Deadline:
23rd October 2012.

Contact Information:
Recruitment
Chester Zoo, Upton-by-Chester
Chester, Cheshire CH2 1LH
United Kingdom

Telephone Number:
 +44 1244 389477

Website:
http://www.chesterzoo.org/footer/careers/job-vacancies

E-mail Address:
recruitment@chesterzoo.org