Guest Services Ambassador - Temporary, Part-Time

This is a temporary, part‑time position at the Santa Barbara Zoo. The Guest Services Ambassador provides exceptional customer service and ensures every guest has a memorable experience. Position Status: Part‑time, Temporary, Hourly, Non‑Exempt Schedule: Up to 25 hours per work week, including weekends, holidays, and school breaks. Seasonal positions through September2026. Compensation: $16.90 per hour 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 10feet with a warm smile, and every guest within 5feet with a friendly “hello” Answers 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 more personal, 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 for the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Education & Experience Preferred: Customer service experience Minimum: 16 years of age Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, and guests Ability to maintain a diligent, friendly, and professional demeanor Attention to detail Team oriented Effective oral communication skills Ability to effectively problem solve Ability to follow oral and written directions Ability to exercise safe work habits Ability to simultaneously assist and interact with guests while overseeing an event Must be enthusiastic, outgoing, and personable Physical Demands & Work Environment Requires the ability to access all areas of the facility Must be able to climb stairs and stand/walk for up to two continuous hours Involves walking outdoors in all weather conditions Supportive and open employment culture Regularly lifts and carries objects up to 20 lbs. Occasionally lifts and carries objects up to 50 lbs. Tools Used Hand tools Electric cart Two‑way radio Flashlights Office equipment BENEFITS & PERKS Great team, beautiful grounds, amazing animal collection, sunshine & ocean view almost year-round Free parking, free guest passes, unlimited free tea/coffee every morning, 20% discount on food services and retail purchases Access to the Collabornation learning platform, professional development events, and lunch & learn opportunities #J-18808-Ljbffr