Visitor Engagement Volunteer

At WWT, we believe that the best way for people to understand and connect to wetlands is to experience them first hand, so we bring awe-inspiring nature up close. By having these experiences, people feel part of something amazing and are motivated to make a difference.

We are looking for friendly and enthusiastic Visitor Engagement Volunteers to create unforgettable experiences for our visitors to WWT London site. You will be actively engaging with our visitors and helping them better understand and support our work to save wetlands for wildlife and people. Volunteer interactions have a hugely positive impact on a visitor’s day out and make it more likely for them to return and become members.

You will be providing visitors with a warm friendly welcome, answering their queries, and encouraging them to explore the site and make the most of their visit. You will be supporting the delivery of small interactive activities, inspiring visitors by telling engaging stories about WWT’s conservation work, helping visitors in spotting wetland species on site, and assisting with events and activities during weekends and school holidays. 

This is an excellent opportunity for those who enjoy getting involved face-to-face with our visitors, ensuring they have a great day out with us, and encouraging them to understand and support the work we are doing.

Volunteers are an essential part of the WWT team, and we wouldn’t be able to maintain our internationally important wetland sites without their help. You will receive a very warm welcome, full induction & training, and be provided with any necessary equipment, uniforms, and anything else needed to thrive in your role.

Main tasks

• Being stationed at key exhibits and areas of interest across the site
• Providing a warm welcome and first point of contact for all visitors coming to the site, answering visitor questions, and helping visitors navigate around the site
• Sharing species knowledge and mentioning seasonal highlights that visitors might enjoy on their visit
• Assisting with the delivery of themed activities including touch tables with small interactive activities
• Assisting our Guide In The Hide Volunteers with helping visitors spot wildlife using binoculars and telescopes
• Assisting with the delivery of special and seasonal events
• Keeping our site tidy and presentable by cleaning signs, picking up litter, sweeping the courtyard and hides, reporting faults and damage to the Duty Manager
• Familiarising yourself with WWT’s wider conservation work and key conservation messages so that you can share this information with visitors
• Engaging positively with visitors of all ages

No previous experience is required for this role as full training will be provided, and a willingness to learn new skills is more important.

This role would suit you if:

• You feel confident in talking to and engaging with members of the public
• You can adapt your communication style to suit your audience, particularly having a warm welcoming manner with our first-time and younger visitors
• You enjoy interacting with a wide range of people
• You are friendly and approachable with a positive attitude
• You have an interest in and enthusiasm for the work of WWT, and are keen to share that with others
• You enjoy working as part of a team of staff and volunteers
• You are happy working outdoors in all weathers

Additional notes

• We are looking for volunteers who are available to help out at least 2 full shifts (or 4 half shifts) a month on a set day. Full day shifts run from 9.30am-4pm with a 15-minute morning break and 60-minute lunch break at 12.30pm. Half day shifts run from 9.30am-1pm with a 15-minute morning break.
• This role is not suitable for people under 18 years.

We are WWT, and we’re on a mission to restore the super-powered ecosystems we call wetlands. There’s never been a more important moment for our work, and we’ve got some phenomenal people on the case.

Whether you’re looking to meet new people, learn new skills or spend time in our wildlife-rich wetlands, there’s a volunteer role for you. Just a few hours spent volunteering can really make a world of difference to our wildlife, and to you.

So, come surround yourself with the wonder of wetlands, and the people who inject their energy and passion into them. Whatever you do here, you’ll be helping to restore wetlands and unlock their power. The only question left is, what role will you play?

Why you’ll love volunteering at WWT 

• Make a real contribution to the conservation and engagement work of WWT
• Work at one of our beautiful and internationally important wetland sites
• Be surrounded and inspired by like-minded nature lovers who bring energy, passion, and expertise to their role
• Make new friends and become part of a friendly and inclusive community
• Gain volunteering experience and learn & develop new skills
• Get volunteer discounts for WWT shops, café, and membership
• Get free entry to all our UK wetland centres, including for your family
• Receive access to wildlife talks, webinars, and practical information to help you manage your volunteer role & daily life
• Be kept informed about what’s happening in our organisation and the positive change you are helping to make happen