Work Preference
Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Interests
Work Availability
Conservation Messenger
Affiliations
Languages
Websites
Timeline
Generic
Erik Petersen
Open To Work

Erik Petersen

Staten Island,NY

Work Preference

Desired Job Title

Zookeeper

Work Type

Part TimeFull TimeSeasonal Work

Location Preference

On-Site
Location: Staten Island, NY
Open to relocation: Yes

Salary Range

45000/yr - 200000/yr

Summary

Dynamic educator with a strong focus on engaging presentations, visitor interaction, and educational programming. Proven ability to enhance visitor experiences and promote wildlife conservation through captivating tours and effective communication.

Dynamic professional with expertise in engaging presentations and visitor interactions. Committed to enhancing educational programming to foster wildlife conservation awareness and community involvement.

Overview

17
17
years of professional experience

Work History

Docent

Staten Island Zoo
Staten Island, NY
04.2009 - Current
  • Developed engaging educational programs to enhance visitor understanding of wildlife conservation.
  • Conducted guided tours, delivering informative presentations on animal behaviors and habitats.
  • Collaborated with staff to implement safety protocols for visitor interactions with exhibits.
  • Evaluated program effectiveness, making recommendations for continuous improvement in presentations.
  • Coordinated special events and activities to promote community involvement in zoo initiatives.
  • Enhanced visitor experience by providing engaging and informative guided tours.
  • Conducted thorough research on exhibit content to ensure accurate and up-to-date information was delivered during tours.
  • Assisted in the planning and execution of special events, increasing community engagement.
  • Participated in ongoing training sessions to stay current on zoo policies, procedures, and exhibit updates.
  • Provided exceptional customer service by addressing visitor inquiries and concerns promptly and professionally.
  • Supported security staff members by monitoring exhibits and guest safety.
  • Assisted educators with curriculum development for school group visits, aligning content with state standards for zoo education.
  • Organized zoo entryways and walkways to maintain inviting and educational atmospheres.
  • Answered guest questions in a professional manner.
  • Fostered a welcoming atmosphere by greeting visitors upon arrival and assisting with wayfinding throughout the facility.
  • Developed captivating presentations for diverse audiences, catering to various age groups and interests.
  • Provided information on various sites throughout area, relaying little-known stories to provide interest.
  • Established positive relationships with tour members through fun and engaging conversation.
  • Demonstrated superior professionalism while interacting with customers and vendors.
  • Led [Number] visitors on daily guided tours and answered questions accurately.
  • Developed engaging and informative scripts, guiding tour members through attractions.
  • Built personal relationships with guests to promote positive experiences.
  • Inspected tour sites for potential hazards and arranged for repairs when needed.
  • Entertained tour guests with various props and signs for maximum engagement, fun, and lasting memories.
  • Informed tour members of safety risks associated with attractions, confirming customer security.
  • Planned and executed [Number] weekly workshops to educate guests on [Area of expertise].
  • Collaborated with local schools and community organizations to develop partnerships that facilitated field trips and other educational opportunities within the institution.
  • Collaborated with other tour guides to provide comprehensive and enjoyable experience.
  • Planned and executed efficient tour routes by using maps and other navigational tools.

Intern

Staten Island Zoo
Staten Island, NY
09.2017 - 11.2017
  • Assisted in daily animal care and feeding routines to ensure health and well-being of zoo inhabitants.
  • Supported educational programs by preparing materials and facilitating engaging visitor interactions.
  • Maintained cleanliness and safety of exhibits, enhancing visitor experience through attention to detail.
  • Observed animal behaviors and reported findings to senior staff for ongoing monitoring and assessment.
  • Supported staff members in their daily tasks, reducing workload burden and allowing for increased focus on higher-priority assignments.
  • Participated in training sessions to enhance knowledge of animal care practices and zoological operations.
  • Engaged with guests to provide information about animals, fostering a positive learning environment.

Education

Associate of Science - Biology

SUNY Empire State College
Saratoga Springs, NY
05-2023

Skills

  • Engaging presentation
  • Visitor interaction
  • Interactive activities
  • Exhibit expertise
  • Interactive tours
  • Visitor education
  • Educational programming
  • Attention to detail
  • Cleaning and sanitizing
  • Presentation skills
  • Effective communication
  • Interpersonal and written communication
  • Program management
  • Educational tours
  • Subject matter expertise
  • Public relations
  • Public speaking
  • Basic mathematics

Interests

  • Hiking
  • Volunteering
  • Gardening
  • Animal Welfare Advocacy
  • Volunteer Work
  • Advocacy Campaigns
  • Fundraising Events
  • Community Cleanup
  • Environmental Conservation Projects
  • Environmental Stewardship
  • Participating in fundraising events to support local charities, schools, or community projects
  • Documenting and sharing travel experiences
  • Backpacking and Hiking
  • Video Gaming
  • Watching Movies and TV Shows
  • I like looking at the stars and learning about constellations
  • Animal Care
  • Participating in local clean-up initiatives
  • Music
  • I have a passion for photography and editing photos
  • Photography

Work Availability

monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Conservation Messenger

Educating visitors and co - workers on wildlife and environmental - related issues they didn't know about. Thus, making them better stewards for the planet.

Affiliations

  • Staten Island Zoo

Languages

English
Native or Bilingual

Timeline

Intern

Staten Island Zoo
09.2017 - 11.2017

Docent

Staten Island Zoo
04.2009 - Current

Associate of Science - Biology

SUNY Empire State College