Weekend Zoo Train Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is an international, nonprofit conservation organization with two front doors: the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. We integrate wildlife health and care, science, and education to develop sustainable conservation solutions.
HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION
The Caravan Driver performs all job assignments with a positive attitude that supports San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's (SDZWA) mission and vision of saving species worldwide. The Caravan Driver, under general supervision, drives guests on a large stake bed truck vehicle within multispecies wildlife habitats for the purpose of conducting tours, and is responsible for the safe departure and arrival of guests. The Caravan Driver also has the potential to drive vehicles between Safari Park property and offsite locations. This position reports to the Wildlife Safari Supervisor.
The Caravan Driver position is distinguished from the Tour Operator Guide position in that the Caravan Driver does not actively participate in narration during the tour, but works in tandem with a Tour Operator Guide to deliver an exceptional guest experience. The Caravan Driver position is distinguished from the Tour Shuttle Driver position in that the Tour Shuttle Driver does not drive for tours within wildlife habitats.
WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Responsible for safely driving guests to their destinations, loading and unloading of passengers including mobility devices as well as securing devices to assigned truck space for safety.
• Drive vehicle on unpaved roads in the major field exhibits and on an off grounds.
• Work in tandem with Tour Operator Guide to deliver exceptional guest experiences.
• Check vehicles for necessary equipment and supplies and add items as needed.
• Ensure tour vehicles are kept clean and report maintenance issues as needed.
• Provide general guest service including answering questions regarding the Safari Park.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
Safari Experiences is seeking an individual who is inspired to be part of an organization that is committed to protecting wildlife around the globe. The Caravan Driver will operate a large caravan truck, during guided tours, in a large open savanna habitat while ensuring wildlife safety and high guest service standards. Ideal candidate must have some of or all of the following experiences: Previous large vehicle operation experience, the ability to work as a team, and experience working in a fast paced and dynamic environment. Schedule availability of at least 4 days a week, including both weekend days, is highly desirable. Must be 18 years of age.
JOB EXPERIENCE

• Prior experience in guest service and /or driving required.

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma Required.
• Valid California Drivers License Upon Hire required.

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

• Must have good driving record and safety knowledge of operating large vehicles.
• Demonstrated ability to provide a high level of guest service to guests.
• Able to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Able to operate motor vehicles.

SOME OF THE REWARDS YOU WILL ENJOY AS A TEAM MEMBER

• Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• Family Passes
• Complimentary Tickets
• Free Parking at the San Diego Zoo & San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• Local and In-House Discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellness Program

IMPORTANT DETAILS

• Location: Escondido, CA
• Position Type: Hourly Part-Time Non-Exempt Union Position - If selected there will be union fees and dues to be paid to the Union.
• Hourly Rate: $27.06

About The Salary Ranges
The posted salary range represents the full compensation potential for this role over time. Initial hiring offers are typically made within the lower to mid portion of the range and are based on a combination of relevant experience, skills, qualifications, internal equity, and organizational considerations. Placement near the top of the range is generally reserved for individuals who demonstrate sustained performance, growth, and expanded responsibilities in the role over time.
Fraudulent Recruiting
Beware of fraudulent recruiting. Legitimate San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance contacts will use an @sdzwa.org email address. We do not request money, checks, equipment orders, or sensitive personal data during the recruitment process. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance only conducts interviews via phone, Zoom, Teams or in-person.
If you have been asked for any of the above, or believe you have been contacted by someone posing as a San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance employee, please e-mail sdzwacareers@sdzwa.org. If you feel that you have been the victim of fraud, please contact your financial institution(s) immediately.
At San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, we celebrate our differences and foster a culture of belonging. Diversity strengthens our employees, enriches our guests' experiences, deepens our connection to our community, and supports the wildlife we serve.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.
If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete an application, please email your request to sdzwacareers@sdzwa.org and provide the job title and location to which you are applying.
As a Federal Contractor, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is required to participate in the E-Verify Program to confirm eligibility to work in the United States. We are not offering sponsorship for this position at this time.
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a drug free workplace.