Bloedel - Bloedel Docent
Purpose:
Docents act as ambassadors to the Bloedel Conservatory and enhance visitors’ knowledge of plants and birds that live within the Conservatory through dynamic and interactive experiences with visitors.
Responsibilities:
- Share plant and bird knowledge, Bloedel history, and horticultural information with visitors through conversation, storytelling and answering questions
- Keep up-to-date and informed about Bloedel Conservatory and the VBGA
- Attend team meetings as required
- Record Docent activity statistics as requested
Skills, Attitudes, Knowledge Required:
- Interest and enthusiasm for nature and the environment
- Enjoys interacting with the public
- Willingness to learn and engage in new material and information relevant to the Bloedel Conservatory
- Takes initiative
- Ability to collaborate and problem solve with team members
- Avian and botanical knowledge will be an asset, but not required
Training and Orientation:
- Training is hybrid, combining online learning modules and in-person training days. After mandatory training is complete, there will be opportunities for ongoing training/education for volunteers.
- Approximately 4 hours of online training to be completed before in-person training (details to follow).
- Three mandatory in-person training days: Saturday, October 24, November 7 and November 14 from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm. This training covers practical interpretation skills, basic botany, and an overview of the role of a Docent.
- The in-person training will take place at Bloedel Conservatory at 4600 Cambie Street and at VanDusen Garden at 5251 Oak Street.
- Mandatory pre and post training shadow shifts with experienced Docent volunteers (details to follow).
A brief phone interview will be required for all new volunteers to ensure that this role is the right fit for you.
Time Commitment:
- A minimum of 2 regular shifts per month for a minimum of one year
- Shift times are 10:00 am to 1:00 pm and 1:00 to 4:00 pm daily
Location:
Bloedel Conservatory at 4600 Cambie Street
Supervisory Relationships/liaison: Candidate will be supervised by and liaise with the Volunteer Engagement Manager and VE team.
Authority/Decision Making: Must be comfortable following guidelines, making decisions, and problem solving with minimal supervision.
Volunteer Benefits:
- Enhance botanical knowledge, further develop customer service and communication skills
- Opportunity to work with a dedicated team in a well-respected charity
- Contribute your time and talents in an impactful way for a worthwhile cause
- Reference letter
The VBGA is committed to equity and diversity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including people of any sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression; Indigenous peoples; visible minorities and racialized people; and people with disabilities.
Apply by September 24, 2026. How to apply:
1. Log into your account or fill out an application form if you are a new volunteer
3. You will see all the roles we are currently recruiting for. Scroll down to the Activity: “Bloedel” and select Bloedel Docent.
4. Read the role description to ensure it’s a good match with your desired level of commitment and your schedule.
5. Scroll to the bottom of the page and click “Sign Up”. (Ignore the message that says there are no scheduled activities)
6. You're done! We will be in touch with you shortly with more details about signing up for an interview and training sessions.
