Trainee Zookeeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The North Carolina Zoo is expanding, making this an exciting opportunity to join our team. We are seeking a dynamic, efficient, and enthusiastic individual to serve as a Guest Services - Transportation team member. In this role, Transportation team members deliver an exceptional guest experience while ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the Zoo's Guest Transportation System and vehicles. They work under the direct supervision of Transportation Branch Management and are expected to collaborate effectively with coworkers, demonstrate strong motivation, and—once trained—perform their duties with a high level of independence and professionalism.

Key Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Maintain a friendly and approachable attitude toward guests and staff at all times.
• Drive a variety of multi-passenger buses and trams, transporting guests and staff throughout Zoo property.
• Operate assigned vehicles attentively and in accordance with established safety protocols.
• Provide exceptional customer service to guests, following all department guidelines.
• Manage crowd control and offer guest information at tram and shuttle stops.
• Use two-way radios for clear and effective communication.
• Operate sound systems within the Zoo's guest transportation vehicles.
• Communicate verbally with guests when giving directions, explaining safety guidelines, and assisting with wayfinding or questions.
• Load and unload strollers, as well as manual and electric wheelchairs, on and off transportation vehicles.
• Adhere to all company policies and procedures, including required health and safety practices.
• Perform light housekeeping duties to ensure vehicles, workspaces, tram and shuttle stops, and transportation areas remain clean and safe.
• Assist with additional duties and support other Guest Services areas as needed or assigned.

Management Prefers

• Experience operating vehicles or equipment, including performing basic safety checks, maintaining required records, following traffic and safety regulations, and carrying out oral and written instructions effectively.

Position & Physical Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must meet DNCR Fleet Safety Guidelines and have a valid Driver's License, issued within the United States, and held for at least one year.
• Able to pass a pre-employment drug test and maintain a drug- and alcohol-free status; random testing is conducted.
• Available to work flexible shifts including weekends and holidays.
• Able to work in extreme weather conditions typical of Central NC (heat, rain, or cold).
• Able to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Able to tolerate exposure to outdoor allergens, dust, fumes, odors, loud noises, motion, and vibrations.
• Able to use radios, telephones, and computers to communicate and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Possess the manual dexterity required to safely operate vehicles and handle tools and equipment.
• Possess sufficient cognitive ability, auditory and visual acuity, and communication skills to perform essential duties and follow general safety practices.
• Willing and able to work varied and extended shifts, including holidays, weekends, and event support as needed.
• Able to work in a variety of physical positions, including sitting, bending, reaching, standing, walking, and lifting or carrying up to 30 lbs.
• Able to navigate paved, rough, and uneven pathways.

This position is located at:

4401 Zoo Parkway

Asheboro, NC 27205

Minimum Education and Experience

• High School or General Education Development (GED) diploma
• Or an equivalent combination of education and experience

Salary for a trainee may be set at a lower level than the classification salary range and recruitment range that is listed in the posting with the salary being adjusted up accordingly as the trainee has obtained the necessary additional education and experience to fully meet the minimum qualifications as outlined in the classification specification.