Zoo Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Zoo Seasonal Security Officer

Hourly Range: $15.91 – $23.87

Closing Date: 09/10/2026 or upon receipt of the first 50 applications

Job Summary: Under the direction of Zoo Security leadership, the Zoo Worker – Security ensures a safe and secure environment for employees, guests, vendors, contractors, and animals. Key duties include protecting Zoo property, providing basic first aid when EMS is unavailable, assisting guests, enforcing Zoo policies, and managing traffic flow. Additional responsibilities include completing required reports, conducting patrols and fence checks, assisting with lost persons, inspecting emergency equipment, enforcing admission policies, and responding to thefts, disturbances, and other incidents as assigned.

Job Responsibilities:

• Resolving guest inquiries, comments, complaints: Maintain the security of Zoo grounds by resolving minor issues and assisting law enforcement and medical personnel, while providing guests with excellent customer service grounded in respect, honesty, and integrity.
• Maintain current knowledge of Zoo information, policies, and events: Stay informed about current and upcoming Zoo events to provide guests with accurate and helpful information. When not personally familiar with a guest’s question, know where to access the appropriate information or resources.
• Uphold, enforce and comply with all Zoo policies, procedures, and work rules: Educate guests on Milwaukee County Zoo policies regarding smoking, service animals, carryins, alcohol, admission, parking, and prohibited items or behaviors. Ensure guest compliance with all applicable policies, procedures, and work rules. Demonstrate leadership by maintaining your own compliance with established Zoo policies, procedures, and work rules at all times.
• Provide traffic control and documentation for vehicles and pedestrians entering and exiting the Zoo: Document and monitor incoming traffic before and after Zoo operating hours. Assist Visitor Services with traffic direction during open hours as needed. Support vendors and contractors in accessing the appropriate locations within the Zoo. Assist emergency service and public safety personnel with safe and efficient entry to and exit from the Zoo.
• Complete and submit required reports, while maintaining proper organization and cleanliness of any assigned workstation: Complete Daily Activity Reports (DAR), Guest Injury Report, and any additional documentation required by the Security Supervisor or Zoo Manager.
• Complete basic patrol duties and perimeter fence checks as required by the Security Supervisor, to include proper communication with Zoo management: Open/ Lock and secure Zoo gates—as directed or required by policy. Communicate pertinent information clearly and promptly, both verbally and in writing, including maintaining proper communication with the Zoo switchboard.
• Reuniting lost children and adults: Assist in locating children and adults who become separated, ensuring their safety through proper identification of both the individual and their accompanying party. This includes providing support for individuals with cognitive disabilities or physical needs.
• Respond to theft or disturbance incidents, assess the situation, and request appropriate resources when a sheriff’s deputy is not on site: Assess situations and request the appropriate law enforcement services when an onduty Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Deputy is not present on Zoo grounds. When a deputy is on site, aid as requested.
• Enforce the Milwaukee County Zoo Admission Policy: Check Zooissued ID badges for employees, vendors, contractors, Zoological Society staff, members, volunteers, and Zoo class/camp participants. May also create ID badges, monitor security cameras, and operate electronic access control systems.

Minimum Requirements: 

• Authorized to work in the United States
• Valid Driver’s License required and must be maintained throughout employment
• High school diploma or GED equivalent required with at least Two (2) years of experience in Law Enforcement, Corrections, or Private Security
• Basic Knowledge of all related computer and software applications, such as word processing and spreadsheets.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Actively pursuing or completion of degree in Criminal Justice

NOTE:  This original application is open to permanent residents of the United States. Appointee must establish residency in the state of Wisconsin within six months of start date and maintain such residency during incumbency. In accordance with Section 11, Rule 3 of the Civil Service Rules a non-competitive examination will be held for this position. The non-competitive examination will consist of criteria deemed appropriate by the Director of Human Resources.

APPLICANTS MUST POSSESS MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AT TIME OF FILING APPLICATION