2

Part Time Zoo Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tulsa Zoo Management, Inc. Your Role: Education Instructor Your Manager: Education Manager - Visitor Programs Your Pay Structure ( FLSA Status): Part-time, hourly/nonexempt Safety Sensitive: This is ...

Guest Services Ambassador

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$11 - $14/hr

Tulsa Zoo Management, Inc. Your Role: Guest Services Ambassador - Full Time Your Manager: Guest ... part-time team members as needed. * Communicate clearly and properly with team using radios and ...

Summary Each part-time faculty member reports to a chair or director, satisfies criteria for ... The Zoo Animal Technology Program at Santa Fe College is the premierzookeeper-trainingprogram in ...

DIVE into an exciting opportunity with the Indianapolis Zoo! We are currently on the hunt for a part-time regular (20-29 hours per week) Aquarist to join our school! From caring for our marine fish ...

Tulsa Zoo Management, Inc. Your Role: Train Engineer Your Manager: Guest Services Supervisor - Attractions Your Pay Structure ( FLSA Status): Part-time, hourly/nonexempt Safety Sensitive: This is a ...

Security Guard

Nashville, TN

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Nashville Zoo is dedicated to inspiring a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural ... Part-time position, averaging 16 hours per week Flexibility: Position may require flexibility in ...

Tulsa Zoo Management, Inc. Your Role: Train Engineer Your Manager: Guest Services Supervisor - Attractions Your Pay Structure (FLSA Status): Part-time, hourly/nonexempt Safety Sensitive: This is a ...

Tulsa Zoo Management, Inc. Your Role: Train Engineer Your Manager: Guest Services Supervisor - Attractions Your Pay Structure (FLSA Status): Part-time, hourly/nonexempt Safety Sensitive: This is a ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Part Time Zoo information

See salary details

$6

$16

$35

How much do part time zoo jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for part time zoo in the United States is $16.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.30 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Part-Time Zookeeper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Part-Time Zookeeper, you need a foundational knowledge of animal care, biology, and safety protocols, often supported by experience or education in animal science. Familiarity with animal management software, cleaning equipment, and basic first aid is typically required. Strong observation skills, teamwork, and effective communication help you stand out in this role. These skills are essential for ensuring animal welfare, maintaining safe environments, and supporting smooth zoo operations.

What are some common challenges faced by part-time zoo employees, and how can they be addressed?

Part-time zoo employees often encounter challenges such as adapting to varying schedules, managing physically demanding tasks, and learning to work with a diverse range of animals and visitors. Flexibility and strong communication skills are essential for coordinating with full-time staff and adjusting to last-minute changes. Many part-time roles also require quick learning to ensure compliance with safety and animal care protocols. Staying proactive about training and asking questions can help new employees succeed in this dynamic environment.

What are part-time zoo jobs?

Part-time zoo jobs are positions at zoological parks or facilities that require employees to work fewer hours than a standard full-time schedule. These roles can include animal care assistants, ticketing staff, education guides, maintenance workers, or retail associates. Part-time employees may work weekends, holidays, or irregular hours, making these jobs suitable for students or those seeking flexible schedules. Responsibilities and qualifications depend on the specific role but often include customer service, basic animal care, and supporting zoo operations.

What is the difference between Part Time Zoo vs Part Time Animal Care Assistant?

AspectPart Time ZooPart Time Animal Care Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; certifications varyHigh school diploma; animal handling certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentZoo settings, outdoor and indoor enclosuresAnimal shelters, clinics, or zoo facilities
Employer & Industry UsageZoos, wildlife parksAnimal shelters, rescue organizations, zoos
Common Search & ComparisonPart Time Zoo vs Part Time Animal Care Assistant

Part Time Zoo roles typically involve working in zoo environments with a focus on visitor interaction and animal exhibits, while Part Time Animal Care Assistants often work in shelters or clinics, focusing on daily animal care and welfare. Both roles require similar credentials and are common in wildlife and animal care industries, but their work settings and specific duties differ.

More about Part Time Zoo jobs
What cities are hiring for Part Time Zoo jobs? Cities with the most Part Time Zoo job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Zoo jobs? The most popular types of Zoo jobs are:
What states have the most Part Time Zoo jobs? States with the most job openings for Part Time Zoo jobs include:
Train Conductor - Part Time

Train Conductor - Part Time

Santa Barbara Zoo

Santa Barbara, CA

$17.90/hr

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago


Santa Barbara Zoo rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 32 rated wildlife parks and zoos


Job description

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 Zoos 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*
SUMMARY:
Under the general direction of the Train Conductor Lead, Guest Experience 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.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

  • 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 Zoos policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Policy Manual
  • Applies and exemplifies green (sustainable) practices whenever possible

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 Zoos 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 Zoos 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 Zoos 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

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 of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Education & Experience:
  • At least 18 years of age
  • Customer service and cash handling experience preferred
  • Must have a general working knowledge of Microsoft Office
  • Experience driving
License, Certification, or Preferred Qualifications:
  • Valid California drivers license and a good driving record
  • Willing and able to certify in First Aid, CPR/AED
  • Must pass a DOJ LiveScan background check successfully
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:
  • Ability to operate C.P. Huntington narrow gauge train throughout shift in a safe manner
  • Basic knowledge of hand tools and mechanical understanding preferred
  • Ability to follow verbal and written directions
  • Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, and our guests
  • Simple arithmetical calculations without the use of a calculator
  • Effective oral and written communication skills
  • Possess an outgoing and friendly personality, with a natural ability to collaborate
  • Self-motivated and able to work without direct supervision
  • Capacity to perform several job duties at once, and multi-task successfully
  • Ability to problem-solve and prioritize
  • Ability to make sound decisions quickly in stressful situations
  • Ability to exercise safe working habits
  • Accurate cash handling such as making change and counting banks
  • Availability and ability to work weekdays, weekends, holidays, and some evenings for events
Physical Demands & Work Environment:
  • Ability to meet the physical requirements necessary to ride the train
  • Ability to operate trains safely at all times
  • Requires the ability to access all areas of the department
  • Must be able to participate in operational practices and emergency responses including the ability to lift 50 lbs., climb stairs or ladders, and manipulate basic tools of the job
  • Ability to handle emergencies in a calm and professional manner
  • Must be able to stand/walk for two continuous hours
  • Must have the ability to sit and twist at the waist repeatedly when driving the train
  • Must have good vision and hearing, with a strong awareness of surroundings
  • Involves working indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Supportive and open employment culture
Tools Used:
  • C.P. Huntington narrow gauge train (gasoline-powered)
  • Various hand tools such as screwdrivers, wrenches, and pliers
  • Hand-operated gasoline pump
  • Various landscaping hand tools such as racks, pruning shears, and shovels
  • Cash register POS system
  • Two-way-radio
  • Fork Lift
  • Office equipment, including laptop/computer


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% discounts on food services and retail purchases
  • Access to the Collabornation learning platform, professional development, and lunch & learn opportunities

*You must also complete the Zoo's Official Employment Application on the next page in order to be considered for the position*
Please make sure to check your spam folder if you do not see an email response from the Zoo.
---
This job description is representative of the expectations of the position described. Additional duties, reporting relationships, and/or position criteria may be assigned as deemed necessary by the Chief Executive Officer or authorized representative. No changes to this job description shall be made without written permission by the Chief Executive Officer or authorized representative.
The Zoo reserves the right to revise this job description at any time. The job description does not constitute a contract for employment and does not guarantee employment for any specified period of time. The job description does not in any way alter the at-will employment relationship.
At this time, the Zoo does not sponsor employment or internship visas.