Guest Services
Are you looking for a fun, rewarding job? The Akron Zoo has positions available within the Guest Services department. Seasonal employees receive discounts, flexible schedules, and the chance to make a real-world difference.
Seasonal employment ends on Dec. 31.
Guest Experiences
Team members will staff Ticket Counter and operate our ride attractions, including the Conservation Carousel, A&K Wilbur / Considine Express (trackless trains), Immotion Virtual Reality, and selling crackers and browse to feed our goats at the Boma. Providing a great experience is expected in all locations and include tasks like accurately scanning tickets, selling general admission and special event tickets, selling membership and redeeming membership certificates, or operating rides safely and efficiently. Daily stations are both indoors and outdoors.
*Driving the A&K Wilbur and/or Considine Express requires a valid driver’s license.
Food Service
Team members provide an exceptional guest experience, uphold health and cleanliness standards, and complete tasks in both front-of-house (FOH) and back-of-house (BOH). FOH duties include accurately operating cash registers, maintaining inviting storefronts and dining areas, stocking inventory, and interacting with guests. BOH duties include preparing food safely while keeping kitchens and storage areas clean and organized. This includes checking-in and rotating deliveries and updating cleaning records. Team members may also assist with catered events.
Staff can be scheduled indoors (Komodo Kingdom & Grasslands Café) or outdoors (Mini Melts, Snack Shack, & Catering locations). Applicants must be comfortable walking and working outdoors in all weather conditions, including cold temperatures during the winter months. No prior experience is required.
*Driving the golf cart requires a valid driver’s license.
Entertainer & Performer - Dinosaur Trainer & Puppeteer
The Akron Zoo is seeking dynamic and energetic entertainers to join our team as Dinosaur Trainers and Puppeteer Performers! This is a unique opportunity to engage and excite our guests by bringing prehistoric creatures to life. If you have a passion for performance, creativity, and love interacting with and educating audiences, this role is for you!
Seasonal Interpreter
Seasonal Interpreters primary purpose is to initiate interactions with zoo visitors through focused activities such as scheduled talks at a variety of animal habitats, give animal encounter presentations, and lead education private tours. Animal Encounter presentations include Meet and Greets for zoo guests and private groups. Interpreters also have other responsibilities as assigned.
Seasonal Groundskeeper
Seasonal Groundskeepers help the Horticulture department keep our grounds beautiful through litter removal, weeding, watering and pruning. A background of work in landscaping is preferred, but not necessary. Candidates should be able to walk for extended periods, carry or push heavy items (such as wheelbarrows), bend or kneel repeatedly and safely traverse uneven terrain. This position works exclusively outdoors in most weather conditions. On-the-job training is provided.