Switchboard Zoo Worker (Seasonal)

Switchboard Zoo Worker (Seasonal)

Milwaukee County Zoo

Hourly Pay Range: $16.50 - $23.87

Closing Date: 06/11/2026 or upon receipt of the first 50 applications

Job Summary: Serves as the Zoo's central communications hubproviding professional customer service via phone, computer, and radio (including emergency calls)with proficiency in multi-line phones, computer applications, and radio equipment; also processes payments/refunds and supports entry using cameras and electronic gate access controls.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Switchboard Operator: Operates an integrated communications system with primary responsibility for the switchboard console, managing the receipt, transmission, screening, and transfer of hundreds of phone calls each day. Coordinates and distributes daily communication messages to Zoo staff.
• Receptionist and Customer Service/Cash Handling: Provides guests with accurate information about Zoo products and services. Works to resolve guest concerns efficiently, courteously, and professionally to ensure a positive experience during their visit. Uses basic problem-solving skills to determine the appropriate department or staff member to direct calls or customers to for assistance.
• Radio Communications: Monitors and responds to three radio channels, ensuring timely and accurate communication. Receives, prioritizes, and responds promptly to all radio transmissions. Relays instructions and information clearly and efficiently to radio users.
• Emergency Response Coordination: Coordinates all human and animal emergency calls with speed and accuracy. Works closely with the Manager-On-Duty (MOD) to dispatch the appropriate emergency personnel and Zoo staff to the scene. Manages, monitors, and documents each emergency in accordance with the Zoo's established emergency procedures.
• Point of Sale System Knowledge and Abilities: Operates the Point of Sale (POS) station and manages transactions including refunds, gift card sales, admission tickets, and vending. Accurately logs all activities and prepares the daily cash handling report.
• Basic Operation Knowledge of Gates and Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV): Maintains a basic operational knowledge of the Zoo's software systems, including Genetec for Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) operation and C-Cure 9000 for gate access control.

Minimum Requirements:

• Authorized to work in the United States.
• Must have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED).
• At least one (1) year of experience in customer service, dispatch, radio operator, logistics.
• Basic knowledge of all related computer and software applications, such as word processing and spreadsheets.
• Basic knowledge of Smartsheet and Point-of-Sale (POS) systems.

Note: This original application is open to permanent residents of the United States. Appointee must establish residency in the state of Wisconsin within six months of start date and maintain such residency during incumbency. In accordance with Section 11, Rule 3 of the Civil Service Rules a non-competitive examination will be held for this position. The non-competitive examination will consist of criteria deemed appropriate by the Director of Human Resources. Applicants must possess minimum qualifications at time of filing application.

Milwaukee County is committed to fostering an equitable working environment, free from discrimination and harassment, on the basis of any characteristic protected by law. We prohibit any form of discrimination, harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, pregnancy related condition, national origin, age, disability, FMLA status, military status, marital status, or any other category or status that is now or in the future protected by federal, state, and local law. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing, background checks and pre-employment physicals subject to job requirements. If special accommodations are needed, please contact View phone number on click.appcast.io.