Rides and Attractions Representative (Part-Time Seasonal)

ZooTampa is looking for part-time seasonal Rides and Attractions Representatives.

Are you passionate about rescuing, rehabilitating, and caring for animals?
Do you love creating exceptional, personal experiences for guests and coworkers?
Do you want to work in a fun and immersive environment where your contribution impacts the mission of the Zoo?

If so, apply today! We are scheduling interviews soon.

Job Description

The Rides and Attractions Representative provides outstanding guest service and assists the operations department in contributing to the mission of the Zoo. Primary responsibilities include safely and efficiently operating mechanical rides and attractions, ensuring that safety guidelines are communicated and followed at all times, and providing information to guests.

Position Highlights:
• Operate rides and interactive areas safely and attentively
• Assist guests while boarding and exiting attractions
• Communicate and enforce ride safety policies with professionalism
• Support emergency procedures, including ride evacuations when necessary
• Maintain cleanliness and organization around all ride areas

Please note that this is a seasonal part-time position. This position has the potential to last until January 11, 2027.

This is a great opportunity to help bring ZooTampa's exciting seasonal event to life while making a lasting impact.

Bring your energy, enthusiasm, and love for animals-and come join our mission!

Maximum scheduled hours are 28 per week.

Minimum availability is three days per week including holidays and weekends with a variable schedule.

Who We Are

ZooTampa at Lowry Park is one of the most popular zoos in the southeastern U.S., with over 1 million visitors annually. We have grown to what now encompasses 56 acres of naturalistic wildlife habitats in a lush, tropical garden setting with wide-ranging activities. The Zoo, accredited by Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), offers popular educational programming, fun recreational amenities, up-close animal encounters and engaging seasonal events for which it has won awards as one of the country's most family-friendly zoos.

Our mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and care for animals; create exceptional personalized experiences that connect people with wildlife and each other in fun, immersive ways.

Our vision is that everyone we touch is motivated to join us in taking action to protect and preserve wildlife.

Join us and become a part of creating unforgettable natural connections!

Your day to day

• Responsible for attentive operation of assigned mechanical rides and interactive play areas in accordance with safety protocols established by the State of Florida and ZooTampa.
• Provides guests with exceptional guest service, including but not limited to those outlined by Operations guidelines and ZooTampa's core values.
• Follow and enforce all policies and procedures politely and diplomatically concerning both guests and staff.
• Fully understand operating and safety procedures / expectations for the Rides Department and communicates designated safety instructions consistently to guests.
• Assist guests with loading and unloading rides, ensuring safety restraints are secure, and communicating all applicable safety protocols to guarantee compliance.
• Respond promptly and appropriately to potential emergency situations, including assisting with evacuation of rides, which may require climbing.
• Maintain accurate documentation of safety checks, ride downtime, and rider counts while also managing ride queues efficiently.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of mechanical rides, attractions and surrounding areas. Assist with routine cleaning and basic upkeep of equipment as needed.
• Contribute to a positive and supportive team environment by promoting cooperation, collaboration, mutual respect, and problem-solving.
• Take pride in contributing to the overall guest experience, creating a fun and safe environment that enhances visitors' enjoyment of the Zoo.
• All other duties as assigned.

What are we looking for?

• A high school or equivalency diploma preferred.
• Customer service experience preferred.
• Effective communication skills-Ability to develop positive relationships with members of all departments.
• Ability to complete projects in a reasonable time frame, to the satisfaction of management.
• Effective time management and the ability to make sound decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Deal courteously and tactfully with employees, peers, superiors, and the general public.
• Must have the ability to follow specific instructions.
• Must be flexible and have the ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment while maintaining a positive attitude with the public.
• Ability to communicate ideas and contribute effectively to the department.

Other Requirements

• Conducts all activities in alignment with AZA standards and guidelines, all relevant laws and regulations, safety standards, and standards that ensure animal welfare.
• Ability to work in extreme weather conditions typical of west central Florida (i.e. heat, rain, or cold) and stand/walk for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to tolerate exposure to animal dander and excrement, dust, fumes, odor, loud noises, motion, and vibrations.
• Must be able to comfortably climb amusement ride catwalks up to a height of 30 feet.
• Ability to use radio, telephone, and computer to communicate and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Manual dexterity sufficient to safely operate rides, and handle tools and equipment.
• Possesses sufficient cognitive ability, auditory and visual acuity and communication skills to perform essential duties and follow animal and guest general safety practices.
• Must be willing and able to work varied and long shifts including holidays, nights, weekends, in support of special events, as well as be available for unexpected shifts.
• Must be able to work in a variety of physical positions, including sitting, bending, reaching, standing, walking for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to lift, push, pull, or carry 20 lbs. or more with or without considerations.
• Must have the ability to navigate paved as well as rough or uneven pathways.

Our Perks at ZooTampa

• Pet Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Discounted gym membership
• Free membership to the Zoo, MOSI, Glazer Children's Museum, and the Florida Aquarium
• Free or discounted admission to many attractions in Florida
• Discounts on food, beverage, and merchandise
• And so much more!

Equal Opportunity Employer & Drug-Free Workplace