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
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Job Summary: Serves as the Zooโs central communications hubโproviding professional customer service via phone, computer, and radio (including emergency calls)โwith proficiency in multiline 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 problemsolving 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 ManagerOnDuty (MOD) to dispatch the appropriate emergency personnel and Zoo staff to the scene. Manages, monitors, and documents each emergency in accordance with the Zooโs 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 Zooโs software systems, including Genetec for ClosedCircuit Television (CCTV) operation and CCure 9000 for gate access control.
Minimum Requirements:
- 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 PointofSale (POS) systems.
NOTE:ย 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