Alaska Wildlife Guide (HAL)

Key Job Responsibilities

•  Deliver Up Close presentations in the World Stage, including three 45-minute educational programs focused on native Alaska wildlife, ecosystems, and regional destinations.
•  Provide live scenic and wildlife narration and lead wildlife spotting sessions during key viewing periods on open decks, assisting guests in identifying whales, birds, marine mammals, and other native species while highlighting behavior, habitats, and geography.
•  Participate in scheduled question-and-answer sessions and engage with guests in both group and one-on-one settings to enhance understanding of Alaska wildlife, flora, fauna, and ports of call.
•  Collaborate closely with the Entertainment Director and onboard teams to align enrichment programming with the daily schedule and itinerary highlights.
•  Answer general expedition-style questions related to wildlife viewing, regional ecosystems, conservation topics, and destination information.
•  Maintain a professional appearance at all times, adhering to company uniform and grooming standards.
•  Ensure all presentations and guest interactions meet Holland America Line brand standards and guest service expectations.
•  Adapt to itinerary changes, weather conditions, and operational adjustments while maintaining a high level of guest engagement and program quality.
•  Perform other job-related duties as assigned in support of the onboard enrichment and entertainment program. 

Experience

• Demonstrated expertise in Alaska wildlife, marine life, and regional ecosystems, including familiarity with the Inside Passage, Puget Sound, Glacier Bay, Juneau, Sitka, and Ketchikan.
•  Proven experience delivering presentations to large audiences, ideally on stage or in theater-style venues.
•  Excellent verbal communication and public speaking skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and engagingly.
•  Strong guest service orientation with the ability to interact comfortably with guests in both formal and informal settings.
•  Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative onboard team.
•  Must be at least 21 years of age.
•  Must meet all shipboard employment requirements, including passing a seafarer medical examination, background check, and holding a valid passport and any required visas.

•  Background in marine biology, wildlife biology, environmental science, natural history, or environmental interpretation.
•  Previous experience as a naturalist, wildlife guide, expedition staff, lecturer, or enrichment presenter in a cruise, tourism, or expedition environment.
•  Experience providing live narration during wildlife viewing or scenic cruising.
•  Familiarity with audiovisual equipment and PowerPoint-based presentations.
•  Prior shipboard or maritime experience is a plus.