Guest Services Ambassador - Seasonal, Part-Time

This is a temporary, part-time position.

Are you a friendly and enthusiastic individual who loves creating memorable experiences? The Santa Barbara Zoo is looking for a Guest Services Ambassador to provide exceptional customer service and ensure every guest has an unforgettable experience. Join us and become the welcoming face that connects our guests to wildlife and conservation!

Position Status: Part-Time, Temporary, Hourly, Non-Exempt

Schedule: Up to 25 hours per work week, including weekends, holidays, and school breaks. We are currently hiring for seasonal positions for now through February 2026.

Compensation: $16.50 per hour


* You must also complete the Zoo's Official Employment Application on the next page in order to be considered for the position
* SUMMARY:

Under the general direction of the Director of Events & Guest Services, the Events & Guest Services Manager, the Guest Services Supervisor, and the Guest Services Lead, the Guest Services Ambassador facilitates a positive guest experience by providing excellent service to all those visiting the Santa Barbara Zoo.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Greets every Guest within 10 feet with a warm smile, and every guest within 5 feet with a friendly “hello”
• Answer phone calls promptly and professionally
• Promotes the sale of memberships and processes the paperwork
• Performs duties of ticket sales and customer service at Admissions and Parking
• Performs guest safety for trains by closing gates and blocking tracks
• Responds to all guest inquiries, comments, and criticisms in a timely manner, in accordance with the guest relation’s procedures
• Associates with guests to share information, identify their needs, and make their experience a more personal one, providing a high level of customer service and satisfaction
• Performs opening and closing procedures and assures that all necessary tasks are completed
• Ensures the Zoo’s presentation standards for cleanliness and maintenance are met by keeping the work area clean, picking up trash while out in the Zoo, and reporting unsafe or unsightly conditions
• Follows cash handling and point-of-sale procedures as outlined in the Employee Policy Manual
• Adheres to the Zoo’s policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Policy Manual
• Other duties as assigned
• Understanding/Handling Emergency Situations:
  • Responds to emergencies quickly and follows emergency protocols
  • Remains calm and creates an atmosphere of calm and control for those dealing with the emergency situation

SECONDARY DUTIES:

Guest Relations:

• Greets every guest with a smile
• Thanks guests for supporting/visiting the Zoo
• Answers phone calls, voice mails, and e-mails promptly
• Ensures the Zoo’s presentation standards for cleanliness and maintenance are met by keeping work areas clean, picking up trash, reporting unsafe or unsightly conditions
• Associates with guests to assist and share information
• Responds to all guest inquiries, complaints, and comments according to Zoo guest relations procedures
• Maintains a clean neat appearance and adheres to the Zoo’s uniform dress code
• Takes responsibility for staying informed about happenings at the Zoo, such as reading employee communications and attending meetings
• Reflects the qualities outlined in the Guest Relations Statement, the Zoo’s Core Values, and the Employee Pledge
• Applies and exemplifies “green” (sustainable) practices whenever possible
• Other miscellaneous duties as required

POSITION CRITERIA:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements and environmental characteristics described below are representative of the knowledge, skill, ability, and working and physical elements required of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Education & Experience:

• Customer service experience preferred
• At least 16 years of age

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, and our guests
• Ability to maintain a diligent, friendly, and professional demeanor
• Attention to detail
• Team oriented
• Effective oral communication skills
• Ability to…