Train Operator - Part Time

Do you love storytelling, riding trains, and creating memorable guest experiences? The Santa Barbara Zoo is seeking Train Conductors to operate our iconic C.P. Huntington train while sharing engaging narratives about the Zoo’s animals, exhibits, and conservation efforts. Join us in delivering safe, entertaining rides that inspire wonder and connection to wildlife!

Note: Applicant must be minimum 18 years of age.

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

Schedule: Up to 25 hours per week. Includes weekends, holidays, and special events.

Compensation: $17.90/hour

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

Under the general direction of the Train Conductor Lead, Events & Guest Services Manager, and Director of Events & Guest Services, the Train Conductor facilitates a positive guest experience by providing excellent service and customer satisfaction, a safe environment, and a train ride to all passengers and guests visiting the Zoo.

• Reports to the assigned area at the scheduled time
• Sells tickets and collects fees from guests
• Operates and drives C.P. Huntington narrow gauge train
• Observes and guides guests boarding train to ensure they are safely seated without being overcrowded
• Narrates points of interest during the train ride.
• Monitors activities to ensure adherence to rules and safety procedures to protect the environment and maintain order, and manage unruly patrons
• Performs routine maintenance of miniature train(s) and railroad right-of-way
• Maintains the train by keeping it clean and polished at all times
• Maintains appearance of landscaping around miniature train by cleaning the grounds and trimming plants
• Maintains area in and around the train station to ensure it is clean and litter-free
• Ensures that all daily inspection forms are in order, filled accurately in a timely fashion, and filed away in the appropriate folder/binder
• Reports any and all mechanical problems to the Maintenance Coordinator and Train Leads promptly
• Provides reads of banks after shifts, verifies totals, and reports any discrepancies
• Ensures that inspections and light maintenance are completed on time and are scheduled regularly
• Reports to the Director of Events & Guest Services or Train Leads about any challenges with staff, equipment, guests, or facility
• Assists with maintaining the train barn and train work stations organized, clear of hazards, and welcoming. Organizes, updates, and files documents pertaining to the trains and train staff
• Provides reports to train mechanic or Director of Events & Guest Services, as needed
• Assists with any railroad maintenance and repairs
• Adheres to all Guest Services and Cash Handling procedures as outlined in policies & procedures
• Adheres to Zoo’s policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Policy Manual
• Applies and exemplifies “green” (sustainable) practices whenever possible

• 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 guest services duties as assigned by the Director of Events & Guest Services, Events & Guest Service Manager, or Train Lead
• Other miscellaneous duties as required

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements and environmental characteristics…