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Point Defiance Zoo Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Elior North America

Cashier

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$17/hr

We are looking to add a friendly, enthusiastic Cashier to our Lancer Hospitality team at the Point Defiance Zoo! As a cashier, you will have the opportunity to interact with a plethora of different ...

Elior North America

Cashier

Tacoma, WA

$17/hr

We are looking to add a friendly, enthusiastic Cashier to our Lancer Hospitality team at the Point Defiance Zoo! As a cashier, you will have the opportunity to interact with a plethora of different ...

Elior North America

Cook

Tacoma, WA

$17 - $18/hr

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium Compensation Range $17-18 per hour Our Benefits: * Weekly Pay * Flexible Schedules * Uniform shirt provided * 2 zoolight admission tickets * Paid meal for eligible ...

EHDD

Designer II

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Notable projects include the AIA Headquarters Renewal, SF Museum of Modern Art, Monterey Bay Aquarium, The Exploratorium, Goldendale Observatory, and Point Defiance Zoo Aquarium. We are an equal ...

EHDD

Designer II

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Notable projects include the AIA Headquarters Renewal, SF Museum of Modern Art, Monterey Bay Aquarium, The Exploratorium, Goldendale Observatory, and Point Defiance Zoo Aquarium. We are an equal ...

Parks Tacoma

Parks Technician - Plumber

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$38.91 - $48.37/hr

... Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, Point Defiance Park, and much more. Our work is guided by eight core values that are the foundation of our actions and goals: innovation ...

Parks Tacoma

Lifeguard (Lifeguard I)

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$18.45 - $21.42/hr

... Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, Point Defiance Park, and much more. Our work is guided by eight core values that are the foundation of our actions and goals: innovation ...

Parks Tacoma

Lifeguard (Lifeguard I)

Tacoma, WA

$18.45 - $21.42/hr

... Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, Point Defiance Park, and much more. Our work is guided by eight core values that are the foundation of our actions and goals: innovation ...

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Point Defiance Zoo information

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$12

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How much do point defiance zoo jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for point defiance zoo in the United States is $20.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Zookeeper at Point Defiance Zoo, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Zookeeper at Point Defiance Zoo, you need a solid background in animal science, husbandry, and biology, often supported by a degree in a related field or relevant animal care experience. Familiarity with animal management software, enrichment tools, and safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for excelling in this environment. These abilities ensure the well-being of animals, effective collaboration, and a positive experience for zoo visitors.

What are some common challenges faced by staff working at Point Defiance Zoo, and how are they addressed?

Staff at Point Defiance Zoo often face challenges such as managing the care of diverse animal species, handling unpredictable weather conditions, and ensuring visitor safety while providing an engaging educational experience. To address these, employees receive comprehensive training in animal care, emergency procedures, and guest interaction. Teamwork is emphasized, with regular meetings and cross-department collaboration to ensure smooth operations and quick responses to any issues that arise. The Zoo supports ongoing professional development and encourages open communication to continually improve the work environment.

What is the difference between Point Defiance Zoo vs Marine Biologist?

AspectPoint Defiance ZooMarine Biologist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles require biology or zoology degreesBachelor's degree in marine biology, biology, or related field; advanced degrees often preferred
Work EnvironmentZoological park, public exhibits, educational settingsResearch labs, fieldwork at marine sites, aquariums
Employer & IndustryZoos, aquariums, wildlife parksResearch institutions, environmental agencies, aquariums

Point Defiance Zoo staff focus on animal care, exhibit maintenance, and public education within a zoo setting. Marine Biologists conduct research, study marine life, and work in labs or field environments. While both roles involve animal knowledge and biology, Point Defiance Zoo staff are more involved in daily animal care and public engagement, whereas Marine Biologists focus on scientific research and conservation efforts.

What is Point Defiance Zoo and what do people do there?

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is a combined zoo and aquarium located in Tacoma, Washington. It is a place where visitors can see a variety of animals from around the world, learn about wildlife conservation, and participate in educational programs. The zoo features exhibits such as Asian Forest Sanctuary, Rocky Shores, and Pacific Seas Aquarium, offering both animal viewing and interactive experiences. Staff at Point Defiance Zoo work in roles ranging from animal care and education to guest services and maintenance. The zoo is dedicated to wildlife preservation and community engagement.
Cashier

Cashier

Elior North America

Tacoma, WA • On-site

$17/hr

Part-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Cashier
Job Reference Number: 38722
Employment Type: Part-Time, Onsite Segment: Dining & Events
Brand: Lancer-Hospitality
Location: Tacoma, Washington (US-WA)
The Role at a glance:
We are looking to add a friendly, enthusiastic Cashier to our Lancer Hospitality team at the Point Defiance Zoo! As a cashier, you will have the opportunity to interact with a plethora of different customers and help ensure that their foodservice experience is as positive as possible.
Enjoy a weekly paycheck, flexible schedules, free Zoo Lights admission & more!
What you'll be doing:
  • Filling orders, receiving money, accurately counting back change and maintaining a clean and organized workstation.
  • Customer service.
  • This list of duties and responsibilities is not all-inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties and responsibilities, as management may deem necessary from time to time.

What we're looking for:
Must-haves:
  • Basic knowledge of math and handling money.
  • Have the ability to handle multiple tasks using time and task management skills.
  • Have excellent communication and organization skills.
  • Have excellent attention to details and service knowledge.

Nice-to-haves:
  • Prior experience providing superior customer service.

Compensation Range
$17/hour
Our Benefits:
  • Weekly Pay
  • Flexible Schedules
  • Uniform shirt provided
  • 2 zoolight admission tickets
  • Paid meal for eligible shifts
  • Employee discount on food and in the gift shop
  • Advancement opportunities.
  • Potential for long-term employment
  • Parking provided
    #indeedelior
    #Boost

About Lancer:
Lancer Hospitality has over 30 years of experience supporting a diverse clientele in a variety of settings with their foodservice needs. Our management experience has allowed us to develop strong, long-lasting, and personal relationships with clients and to build a scope of service that can make a real difference in businesses and communities.
About Elior North America:
Elior North America is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. We are committed to diversity and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and abilities. We take pride in supporting the development of our employees and their skills at all levels and in fostering an environment of growth.
At Elior North America, we are committed to offering growth and advancement opportunities for all of our employees. The valuable skills and experience you've gained with Elior will propel you further in your career, whether with our corporate office or one of our brand segments.
Disclaimer: This job description can be revised by management as needed.
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About Elior North America

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Elior North America enhances people's lives through culinary innovation and a commitment to providing exemplary service. Our family of companies, with more than 17,000 employees, provides food services and catering to over 1,500 client accounts in five industry segments across the continental United States. We are proud to be the fifth largest culinary management company in the country and excited to be the fastest growing organization in the industry. We focus on three ingredients for success to differentiate Elior from our competitors and position our company as a disruptor in the markets we serve. To support our ingredients for success and drive our mission and values, we need talented team members throughout our family of companies.

Industry

Food and beverage stores

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

2008

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