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Zoo Lights Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Oglebay Park Ranger

Wheeling, WV · On-site

$11 - $13/hr

... security lights, and security doors left unlocked. Responds to all calls received on a priority basis makes routine patrols of zoo during closed hours. Responds to reports of incidents, theft ...

Wheeling Park Ranger

Wheeling, WV · On-site

$11 - $13/hr

... security lights, and security doors left unlocked. Responds to all calls received on a priority basis makes routine patrols of zoo during closed hours. Responds to reports of incidents, theft ...

NC · On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

Description of Work The North Carolina Zoo is expanding! We are seeking a self-motivated Plumber ... repairing lights, etc., assisting with preventative maintenance and repair duties with HVAC ...

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Zoo Lights information

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$13

$28

$44

How much do zoo lights jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoo lights in the United States is $28.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.08 and $32.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a typical shift look like for someone working on the Zoo Lights team?

A typical shift on the Zoo Lights team involves preparing, installing, and testing lighting displays throughout various zoo areas, ensuring that all equipment functions properly and meets safety standards. During public event hours, team members often monitor displays, assist guests with directions or questions, and address any technical issues that arise. Shifts may include evening and weekend hours to accommodate the event schedule and guest attendance. Teamwork, flexibility, and a proactive approach are crucial, as you’ll often collaborate closely with other departments such as maintenance, security, and guest services. This dynamic environment provides a hands-on role where creativity and problem-solving are encouraged.

What is a Zoo Lights job?

A Zoo Lights job typically involves working at a zoo's holiday light event, where employees help with various tasks such as ticket sales, guest services, maintenance, and light installations. These positions are often seasonal and require evening shifts. Duties may include assisting visitors, operating attractions, ensuring safety, and maintaining the light displays. It's a great opportunity for those who enjoy working outdoors and engaging with the public during festive events.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Zoo Lights position, and why are they important?

To excel in a Zoo Lights position, you need skills in event setup, basic electrical work, safety awareness, and customer service, often supported by relevant experience in event production or facility maintenance. Familiarity with lighting control systems, power tools, and basic troubleshooting is beneficial, and OSHA safety certification may be required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication are critical soft skills for collaborating with staff and ensuring a safe, enjoyable environment for visitors. These abilities are vital for delivering high-quality, safe, and visually impressive lighting displays that enhance the zoo guest experience during special events.

More about Zoo Lights jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Zoo Lights jobs? The most popular types of Zoo Lights jobs are:
Infographic showing various Zoo Lights job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Locum Tenens, 10% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,752 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

$26.39 - $30.54/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 33 rated wildlife parks and zoos


Job description

Maintenance Worker – Maintenance amp; Facilities Department
The Maintenance amp; Facilities Department is looking for qualified candidates to fill an opening as Maintenance Worker. Installs, services and performs preventative maintenance on equipment, as needed. Responds to emergencies, alarms and or requests for maintenance related issues. Work in this position will involve using forklifts and aerial lifts, using gauges and instruments, and recording data on appropriate forms. Checks product for visual defects; Maintains buildings to include the maintenance of windows, doors, roofs, floors, stairways, interior and exterior partitions, construction shop partitions, bins, racks, pallets, and shipping crates, lubricates machines and equipment. Maintains a current knowledge of industry standards and developments.
Additionally, all maintenance staff, regardless of specialty, will at times be asked to work on any and all aspects of a typical facilities department as conditions dictate. This could include anything from hanging Christmas lights to working on our train tracks to helping unclog a drain in an emergency situation.
Pay Rate amp; Company Benefits: Position pay range is $26.39 - $30.54/hour, depending upon experience. The Cincinnati Zoo amp; Botanical Garden offers a comprehensive benefits package including affordable medical, dental amp; vision coverage; 401(k) plan with company match; flexible spending accounts; generous paid time off banks; company-paid disability amp; life insurance; park discounts and free passes.
Qualifications: The ideal candidate will have High School diploma with 5 years of related experience; Applicant must be able to demonstrate competency and experience in at least two of the following trade skills: Plumbing, electric, welding, carpentry, and diesel engine mechanics. Equivalent combinations of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job will be considered.
Due to the unique diversity of work required at an institution like a zoo, flexibility and a desire to help out in any and all situations is a must. A positive attitude is required in order to be considered for this position.
Working Conditions: Employment is contingent upon passing a post-offer, pre-employment drug and nicotine screen and background check. While performing the duties of the job, the incumbent is regularly required to stand, walk, climb and utilize manual dexterity to use various tools, machines and equipment. The incumbent is regularly exposed to outside weather conditions and must be able to lift/move/carry up to 50 pounds without assistance; and have a valid driver’s license and be insurable to drive a Zoo vehicle.
  • This full-time position is subject to the successful completion of a probationary period and the deduction of union dues. Position will require working at least one weekend day.
Successful candidates will embrace and continuously demonstrate the Core Values of the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden which include, but are not limited to: Building Collaborative Relationships through open communication and active listening; having Positivity and Energy through positive attitudes and making time to celebrate successes; having Accountability, Mutual Trust and Respect through taking ownership of issues, learning from mistakes, treating others with respect, holding self and others accountable and doing what you say you’re going to do; possessing Progressive Thinking through being a self-directed learner, and learning from others, thinking creatively, challenging the status quo respectively, and demonstrating relentless pursuit for improvement; and having Pride, Passion amp; a Sense of Ownership through respect and care for the living collection, going the extra mile, always being an advocate for the Zoo and demonstrating a strong personal ownership.
To Apply: A resume/work history and letter of interest should be attached to your online application
Applications will be reviewed as they are received, with the intent of filling the position as soon as possible with the best candidate.