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Seasonal Zoo Train Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Minot Park District

Seasonal - Zoo Guest Services

Minot, ND · On-site

$13 - $16/hr

Must possess a valid North Dakota Driver's License. Required knowledge of: * Principles and ... Providing customer service to the public and responding to zoo related inquires. * Preparing food ...

City of Bloomington, IL

Zookeeper

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$50K/yr

Train and mentor Seasonal Zookeepers, Laborers, interns, and volunteers. * Function as an AZA IR as ... Driver's License Physical Requirements/Working Conditions: Reasonable accommodations may be made to ...

City of Bloomington Illinois

Zookeeper

Bloomington, IL

$50K/yr

Train and mentor Seasonal Zookeepers, Laborers, interns, and volunteers. Function as an AZA IR as ... Driver's License Physical Requirements/Working Conditions: Reasonable accommodations may be made to ...

Binder Park Zoo

Seasonal Ride Operator

Battle Creek, MI · On-site

Provide exceptional customer service while operating the zoo rides (carousel, tram and train) in a ... Minimum 18 years of age with a valid driver's license with an excellent driving record to operate ...

Great Plains Zoo

Zookeeper (Ungulate)

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

$18/hr

... train Junior Zookeepers, interns, volunteers and seasonal employees; however, this position does ... driver's license and be able to pass a pre-employment background check. • Covid-19 and Flu ...

Great Plains Zoo

Zookeeper (Ungulate)

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

... train Junior Zookeepers, interns, volunteers and seasonal employees; however, this position does ... Must have a valid driver's license and be able to pass a pre-employment background check. Covid-19 ...

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How much do seasonal zoo train driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for seasonal zoo train driver in the United States is $15.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a seasonal zoo train driver?

Seasonal Zoo Train Drivers are temporary employees who operate trains or trams that transport guests around a zoo during peak seasons, such as summer or holidays. Their main responsibilities include safely driving the train, providing information about zoo exhibits, ensuring passenger safety, and assisting guests as needed. These drivers often interact with visitors, answer questions, and sometimes narrate tours. The role is ideal for individuals who enjoy working with the public and have good communication and customer service skills.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a seasonal zoo train driver?

To thrive as a Seasonal Zoo Train Driver, you need a valid driver's license, familiarity with basic vehicle operations, and a good safety record, often supplemented by customer service experience. Knowledge of the zoo layout and two-way radio systems, as well as any required vehicle operation training, are typically necessary. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and clear communication are essential for creating a positive guest experience and ensuring safety. These skills and qualifications are important to safely transport guests, provide engaging commentary, and maintain efficient operations in a busy, public-facing environment.

What challenges do seasonal zoo train drivers face and how can they be managed?

Seasonal zoo train drivers often encounter challenges such as managing large crowds during peak visitor times, ensuring passenger safety, and communicating effectively with both guests and team members. Navigating around busy walkways and responding to unexpected situations, like weather changes or animal activity near tracks, requires attentiveness and quick problem-solving. Building strong teamwork with zoo staff and maintaining a friendly, informative attitude with guests can help create a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.

What is the difference between Seasonal Zoo Train Driver vs Amusement Park Ride Operator?

AspectSeasonal Zoo Train DriverAmusement Park Ride Operator
CredentialsDriver's license, train operation certificationRide operation certification, safety training
Work EnvironmentZoo grounds, outdoor tracks, seasonalAmusement park rides, indoor/outdoor, seasonal or year-round
Employer & IndustryZoological parks, wildlife attractionsAmusement parks, entertainment venues
Job FocusOperating trains, ensuring visitor safety on train ridesOperating rides, ensuring safety and guest experience

While both roles involve operating rides and ensuring safety, the Seasonal Zoo Train Driver specializes in operating train rides within zoo environments, often requiring specific train operation certifications. In contrast, the Amusement Park Ride Operator manages various rides in amusement parks, focusing on different safety protocols and ride types. Both roles are seasonal and require safety training, but they serve different entertainment settings.

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What are the most commonly searched types of Zoo Train Driver jobs?

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Seasonal Zoo Train Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Seasonal Zoo Train Driver job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,031 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Rides Tram/Train Driver (Seasonal)

Memphis Zoo

Memphis, TN • On-site

Other

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Summary:
The Tram/Train Driver is responsible for safely operating the tram and train, transporting passengers along a set route by stopping at designated stations to pick up and drop off passengers, and ensuring passenger safety through operation and announcements. The job demands a high level of technical expertise, attention to detail, excellent problem-solving skills, and strong communication skills.
Essential Job Functions:
  • Operate tram and train according to safety protocols.
  • Conducting pre-opening and closing tasks such as safety walks and inspections.
  • Monitor and inspect tram and train for safety.
  • Administering consistent admission policies and ride safety standards.
  • Communicating ride safety instructions clearly and consistently.
  • Load and unload passengers in a safe and timely manner.
  • Maintaining order and providing clear direction during emergency situations.
  • Provide customer service to guests, including answering questions and providing assistance.
  • Enforce all safety regulations and stay current with safety rules and procedures.
  • Maintaining cleanliness and organization of the work area.
Minimum Education and Experience:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Previous customer service experience.
  • General knowledge of safety procedures.
Preferred Education and Experience:
  • Prior experience in a similar role.
Skills/Behavior:
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a focus on guest satisfaction.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks efficiently.
  • Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
  • Positive attitude and willingness to learn and adapt in a team-oriented environment.
Competencies:
  • Safety Knowledge.
  • Attention to Detail.
  • Stress Management/Composure.
  • Flexibility.
  • Teamwork Orientation.
  • Problem solving.
Supervisory Responsibility: None.
Reporting Structure: Reports to the Rides Manager.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:
Seasonal positions are defined as temporary work to meet an organization’s temporary needs during certain times of the year and can last up to 6 months. This position can be scheduled to work approximately up to 40 hours per week. Scheduling is at the discretion of the manager. This position is considered non-exempt under the federal and state wage and hour laws.
This position is considered non-exempt under the federal and state wage and hour laws. Position regularly requires flexible hours including weekdays, holidays, and weekends to provide coverage during Zoo hours of operation. Evenings required per Zoo events.
Work Environment: While performing the duties of this job, the employee primarily works outdoors on Zoo grounds. The work environment is fast-paced and may involve exposure to warmer or colder temperatures. Employees should be prepared to work in a busy, moderately loud, and dynamic setting.
Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to drive, sit and/or stand for long periods of time. The employee is constantly required to use hands and fingers to feel, handle or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl and walk. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Other duties: Please note that this job description is not exhaustive and additional duties may be assigned, or existing duties may be modified, at any time to meet the needs of the organization.
Other Requirements:
  • 21 years or older.
  • Clear background check.
  • Clear drug screening.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Clear MVR screening.
  • Proof of current automobile insurance.

Benefits & Perks
The Memphis Zoo has a comprehensive benefits and employee perks package. Please see our Memphis Zoo Careers page for details.
EEOC and Inclusion Statement:
The Memphis Zoo believes that human diversity is as important as the biodiversity we seek to conserve. World-class zoos are comprised of world-class team members representing a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We value a diverse workplace and strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, and veterans to apply.
The Memphis Zoo is an equal-opportunity employer. Applicants will not be discriminated against because of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, citizenship status, disability, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, medical condition, or any protected category prohibited by local, state or federal laws. If you need to request any accommodations for the interview or hiring process, please let the Human Resources team (HR) know. HR can be contacted at hrteam@memphiszoo.org.
The Memphis Zoo participates in E-Verify and is an EEO/ADA/Veteran employer.
All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment screening. Memphis Zoo is a drug-free workplace.
Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.
How to Apply:
Applications should be submitted via the Memphis Zoo Careers page. Please note that any other application submissions will not be considered. www.memphiszoo.org/careers.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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