Seasonal Park Services Team Member (Fall 2026)

Seasonal Park Services Team Member

A clean, safe, and welcoming environment is essential to every guest's experience at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. From first impressions at our Vine Street Village entrance to the comfort of shared spaces and eateries throughout the park, cleanliness plays a vital role in helping guests feel inspired, cared for, and connected to wildlife. Our Park Services team is at the heart of this experience: working both behind the scenes and in public spaces to ensure the Zoo remains a place where visitors, staff, and animals can thrive.

What Makes a Great Seasonal Park Services Team Member:

• Enthusiasm and energy to create a safe, welcoming, and clean atmosphere for guests.
• Ability to effectively prioritize and manage multiple tasks while maintaining high cleanliness and safety standards.
• Detail oriented and self-motivated to identify tasks and work independently or as part of a team.
• Eagerness to initiate friendly interactions with guests.
• A willingness to adapt and learn on the job.
• A passion for wildlife and connecting people with nature.

By building collaborative relationships, displaying positivity and energy, having pride, passion, and a sense of ownership, supporting accountability, mutual trust and respect, and embracing progressive thinking, we have built a team of dedicated staff that focuses on our visitors, community, and future.

We are looking for team members anticipating working Fall 2026. The estimated start date for this position will be August 19th. The intention for this position is to start in late summer, work through the fall season (including evenings), and continue through Festival of Lights. Orientations will be held on a rolling basis.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Performing janitorial and grounds keeping duties, including but not limited to: sweeping and litter collection, trash removal, restroom cleaning.
• Demonstrate pride, passion, and ownership by maintaining high cleanliness standards and responding promptly to guest and team member needs.
• Ensure cleanliness of all areas and monitor proper usage of supplies and equipment.
• While maintaining cleanliness and safety, Park Services team members serve as visible, approachable representatives of the Zoo and assist guests with basic questions, directions, and support as needed.
• Perform special cleaning assignments during regular operating hours and events, assisting other Zoo staff in areas needing special or immediate attention.
• Report equipment malfunctions, breakages, and losses.
• Follow all safety and security policies of The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

• 16 years of age or older. Minors will be required to provide a work permit when applicable.
• Constantly work outdoors in all climates and weather conditions with prolonged stationary positions or frequent movement positions.
• Able to lift/move/carry up to 50lbs without assistance.
• Willing & able to engage with the public in a positive & friendly manner.
• Candidates with prior experience in housekeeping, groundskeeping, or park services are encouraged to apply.
• Must be able to complete the requirements of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Employment is contingent on passing a post-offer, pre-employment Drug Screening & Background Check.

Availability:

This is a seasonal, non-benefitted position with variable hours ranging from up to 35 hours per week (not to exceed an annual total of 1500 hours). The season lasts from March 1st, 2026 to January 3rd, 2027. Must be available at least 3 days per week, including 1 weekend day (Saturday or Sunday). Individuals must be available for at least 7 hours per available day. Students may initially provide availability for 2 days per week, increasing to 3 days once classes are over. Shifts range from 8:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., with most shifts falling between 8:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Evening shifts fall between 2:45pm and 11pm. Shifts typically last 5-8 hours. Occasional after-hours events require scheduling shifts as late as midnight.

Benefits:

• Competitive pay starting at $15/hour
• Opportunities for performance-based pay increases
• Flexible scheduling to accommodate students and retirees
• Complimentary Zoo tickets and employee discounts
• Incentive programs and employee engagement opportunities
• A fun, team-oriented work environment
• Free Metro Bus pass for the duration of employment
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth

What You'll Gain:

• Build valuable skills and enhance your resume.
• Develop transferable talents for any career field.
• Improve interpersonal communication through guest interactions.
• Strengthen critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Gain experience with operational support, facility care, and guest service in a large public venue.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received, so please apply soon!