Position Summary
The On Call Events Assistant reports directly to the Events Coordinator and assists with zoo events, private rental events, weddings and birthday parties. Works to ensure the event runs smoothly from set-up to clean-up. Interacts with multiple zoo departments to provide excellent customer service. This position is on-call and part-time, requiring some overtime and a very flexible work schedule with the Sacramento Zoological Society.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities

• May be asked to assist in event preparation; including event sheet and maps, communication with outside vendors and other zoo staff, processing, and event wrap-up reports
• May be asked to assist in execution of events; including logistics, coordination with vendors, and physical set up and tear down (e.g.. tents, tables, chairs, etc.)
• Provide excellent customer service to a wide variety of clientele in person, via email, phone and written correspondence
• Ability to handle multiple tasks at one time and effectively prioritize according to the current situational needs
• Serve as an ambassador of the Sacramento Zoo for all visitors, provide information of upcoming events and special promotions
• Work individually and as part of a team to achieve the zoo’s goals of conservation and education
• Assist with other departments’ needs as necessary

Qualifications

• Excellent time management and communication skills
• Experience with events and catering
• Ability to think constructively and under pressure
• Extremely organized
• Proficient in Microsoft applications (Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Excel)
• Ability to prioritize and focus with multiple distractions
• Valid California Drivers’ License required
• Ability to stand or walk for long periods of time without rest; ability to sit, stoop, kneel or bend to accommodate event set-up.
• Ability to perform work which involves frequent lifting, carrying and/or pushing of items up to 50 lbs.

Submit resume and cover letter to:
Email: zoohr@saczoo.org
*Resumes reviewed on a rolling basis

The Sacramento Zoological Society has an exciting opportunity for a Social Media and Marketing Coordinator. This new position will work to create engaging content for the Society’s social media platforms, including keeping social media channels updated and brand-focused, and seeking out new social media avenues and ways of connecting with audiences. This position will also support the Society’s marketing, development and events managers in a wide variety of projects in support of the Sacramento Zoo’s goals and objectives. Support will include creating and implementing marketing campaigns, driving community awareness and engagement, photography and videography (including editing) and assisting in a wide variety of administrative support duties. This is a full-time position, requiring some overtime and a very flexible (and fun!) work schedule with the Sacramento Zoological Society.

Skills and Qualifications

• Degree/education in Marketing, Communications, Advertising, Journalism preferred.
• Existing social media presence and experience using social media outlets including Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter and others.
• Proficiency in photography/videography, including editing.
• Demonstrated excellent written and verbal communication skills and proofreading proficiency.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented and able to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
• Must be proficient with Word, Powerpoint, and Outlook and be able/willing to learn new programs and software. Working knowledge of Photoshop a plus.
• Must be motivated, enthusiastic, adaptable and a strong team player.
• A valid California Driver’s License is required.

Submit resume and cover letter to:
Email: zoohr@saczoo.org
*Please indicate the position of interest in the subject line.

The Sacramento Zoological Society has an immediate opening for a Private Events Coordinator. This position is responsible for planning and implementing all zoo rentals and private events, working to ensure events run smoothly from set-up to clean-up. This includes interacting with multiple zoo departments and vendors as well as zoo guests to provide excellent customer service. Duties include: answering all rental inquiries and presenting the zoo to prospective clients for weddings and private zoo rentals; working with the on-site catering manager to determine event menus, budget, etc.; building a prospective client base through site inspections, telephone sales, mixers, etc. The Private Events Coordinator is expected to schedule or work as staff representative at all private events from the start of the event through completion. Evening and weekend work is required. This is a full-time position, requiring some overtime and a very fun, flexible work schedule with the Sacramento Zoo.

Skills and Qualifications

• Prior experience with events and catering preferred
• Degree/education in Hospitality, Hotel Management or related field desired.
• Excellent time management and communication skills
• Highly organized and able to work under pressure
• Proficient in Microsoft applications (Outlook, Word, Powerpoint, Excel)
• Must be dedicated to providing superior customer service at all times

Submit resume and cover letter to:
Email: zoohr@saczoo.org
*Please indicate the position of interest in the subject line.

Position Summary
The Sacramento Zoo is looking for an exceptional Visitor Services Associate with experience interacting with and assisting guests. Under the supervision of the Guest Service Supervisor, the Visitor Service Associate is responsible for providing admission sales and ride tickets, driving the trackless zoo train and operating the zoo carousel. Other duties will include day to day cashier duties, acting as a guest liaison, answering questions and inquires. The Visitor Service Associate provides additional help wherever the need arises at the Front Gate

This is a part-time seasonal position. The Visitor Services Associate must be available to work Tuesdays, Thursdays and weekends, with some flex hours available during specific times of the year.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities

• Ensures that each customer receives outstanding service by providing a friendly environment, which includes greeting and acknowledging every customer.
• Accurately and efficiently maintain all sales transactions at the Point of Sale cash registers for Zoo Admissions and ride ticket sales.
• Maintain an awareness of all promotions and advertisements.
• Responsible for monitoring the main entrance during after-hours rentals.
• Run both the Zoo train and carousel in accordance with State regulations
• Manages crowds, lines, customer activities for overall safety and pleasant experiences for guests.
• Assist in emergency and lost child procedures.
• Maintain orderly appearance of register and work areas and keep supplies stocked.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Cash handling and customer service experience are preferred.
• Proficient in use of cash register and calculator
• Must have excellent customer service and team work skills as well as communicate with coworkers and supervisors effectively.
• High school degree required.
• Must have current driver’s license of at least 2 years with a clean insurable driving record.
• Must be flexible, reliable and self-motivated team player.
• Must be able to actively work in inclement weather.
• Some areas require the ability to stand for long periods of time
• Represent the Zoo with an enthusiastic and cheerful demeanor.
• Provide updated general zoo information.

Disclaimer: This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by an employee within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of an employee assigned to this job.

Submit resume and cover letter by June 15th, 2018 to:
Email: zoohr@saczoo.org
*Please indicate the position of interest in the subject line.

The Sacramento Zoological Society has an immediate opening for a Development Assistant. This position is responsible for accurate data entry and administrative support to the Institutional Advancement and Marketing department including participation in all fundraising activities such as donor relations, direct mail appeals and special events. This position is full-time, working 40 hours per week, requiring some overtime and a flexible work schedule with the Sacramento Zoological Society.

Job duties include:

· Process donations and prepare acknowledgement letters and other correspondence
· Maintain individual, corporate and foundation donor files; update and correct database records
· Respond to donor inquiries and requests for assistance in a friendly and timely manner
· Assist with zoo event auctions (assist with auctions from beginning to end including soliciting auction donations, maintaining inventory of auction items, assisting with auction prep and day-of)
· Responsible for fulfillment and acknowledgement of Wild Provider memberships and renewal notices; coordinate the Zoo Parent Program
· Assist with development and zoo-wide events as needed
· Provide general development and IAM department assistance where needed
· Provide exceptional customer service in person, via email, in writing and over the phone
· Assist with employer matching gifts and payroll deduction programs

Skills and Qualifications:

· Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience in business, non-profit management, or related field, such as communications, public relations or marketing
· Minimum of one year of non-profit development or related experience strongly preferred
· Strong customer service and data entry skills
· Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills
· Exercise good judgment and professionalism
· Ability to maintain confidentiality
· Able to organize, focus and prioritize work with multiple distractions
· Capable of working independently as well as within a team setting
· Proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Raiser’s Edge; proficiency with Altru preferred
· Valid California Drivers’ License required

Work Environment:

Physical Demands:
· Ability to stand or walk for long periods of time without rest; ability to sit, stoop, kneel or bend.
· Ability to perform work involving lifting, carrying and/or pushing of items up to 50 lbs.

Salary Range: $13.00 – $14.50 per hour

Submit resume and cover letter to:
Email: zoohr@saczoo.org
*Please indicate the position of interest in the subject line.

Below is a brief sampling of possible jobs and career opportunities many zoos, biological parks and marine parks offer. Even if you’re not interested in a hands-on animal career, all wildlife facilities have a wide variety of other professions available. The bonus is that you will still be working close to animals.

Zookeeper
Daily animal care, including feeding, exhibit cleaning and behavioral observation

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
Responsible for the medical diagnosis, care and treatment of the animals

Curator
Oversees the management of the facility, sets protocols and policies, and assists with animal acquisitions

Veterinary Technician
(Animal Health Technician)
Assists the veterinarian with general animal care

Membership Services
Provides customer service, data processing and information for members and visitors

Graphic Designer
Designs artwork for logos, newsletters, flyers, signs, and advertising

Animal Trainer
Trains animals to demonstrate natural behaviors on demand for public programs

Educator
Presents programs to visitors, both on and off zoo grounds

Development and Fundraising
Cultivates community and business contacts to support the zoo

Facility & Grounds
Repairs equipment and maintains the facilities throughout the park

Concessions & Retail
Customer service positions in food and retail departments

Business Manager
Accountant responsible for managing the zoo budget

Horticulturist
Works with plants and landscaping, both inside and outside of animal exhibits

Public Relations & Marketing
Promotes public awareness through advertising and coordinates special events

Do I need to have a college degree?
Although some zookeepers have a two-year degree, most jobs now require a four-year degree in biology, zoology or a related field. This is an extremely competitive field, and education is as important as experience.

Is working with the animals as fun as it looks?
Yes and no. Working with animals is not easy. It takes dedication and responsibility. Most zookeepers work weekends and holidays, as the animals still need care on those days, too. The work is outdoors, so weather can sometimes be an issue. But, the job is never boring, as each day brings new surprises and fulfillment.

What do you like most and least about your job?
Least – Working outside in hot/wet weather and dealing with sick or injured animals.
Most – Knowing the animals at the zoo are well cared for and that we help to educate the public.

What do you get paid per year?
Salaries differ in each region of the country depending upon the size of the institution and the cost of living in the surrounding area. The average yearly salary for entry level animal care staff ranges from $20,000 to $30,000 per year. More experienced staff and managers will have a higher salary. Benefits (medical, dental, sick leave and vacation), are included in most salaries.

What do you do everyday?
Keepers spend most of their mornings preparing diets, feeding and cleaning the animals assigned to them. The afternoons can be spent working on special projects, behavioral observation and afternoon feedings. Trainers and educators spend a large portion of the day preparing for shows, and presenting programs.

Will I get to have direct contact with the animals?
Usually not. The animals on exhibit are not tame. However, for some animals, contact is necessary for maintenance purposes. Trainers and educators work with smaller animals that are often trained and handled for shows and performances. No matter if it is a hedgehog or a tiger, zoo animals are not pets and are not handled as such.

Where can I find job openings?
Most zoos have position posted on their website. The American Association of Zookeepers and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums each have monthly publications that list openings from around the country.

Many zoos and wildlife parks have information packets on job opportunities available at their facilities. There are also associations affiliated with these facilities that can give you information on careers and locations of parks local to your area or state. Below is a brief listing of associations and facilities to contact.

American Association of Zoo Keepers
3601 S.W. 29th Street, Suite 133
Topeka, KS 66614-2054

American Society of Zoologists
Box 2739, Lutheran College
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360

Association of Zoos and Aquariums
8403 Colesville Road Suite 710
Silver Spring, MD 20910-3314

Bureau of Labor Statistics
U.S. Department of Labor
Washington, DC 20212

National Audubon Society
645 Pennsylvania Ave. SE
Washington, DC 20003

National Wildlife Federation
1400 16th Street NW
Washington, DC 20036

National Marine Educators Association
Publication Committee
P.O. box 51215
Pacific Grove, CA 93950

North American Association for Environmental Education
P.O. Box 400
Troy, Ohio 45373

A strong background in zoology or related science background is necessary for most of the jobs that involve working closely with animals. Other jobs like marketing, education or exhibit design might require different backgrounds, so a diverse education is always important.

Contacting your local college or school counselor will help guide you toward an appropriate educational pathway for your desired job. Below is a brief listing of colleges in California that offer Biological/Science degrees and related course work.

California State University & University of CA
Most colleges offer a range of majors in the zoological or biological sciences.

Los Angeles Pierce College
Animal Health Technology Program
6201 Winnetka Ave
Woodland Hills, CA 91371

Moorpark College
Exotic Animal Training and Management
7075 Campus Road
Moorpark, CA 93021

San Diego Mesa College
Animal Health Technology Program
7250 Mesa College Drive
San Diego, CA 92111

Oregon Coast Community College
Associate of Applied Science degree
program in Aquarium Science
www.occc.cc.or.us/aquarium
(541) 574-7130

Jefferson Community College
Animal Management Program
1220 Coffeen Street
Watertown, NY 13601

University Of California, Davis
College of Veterinary Medicine
1 Shields Ave.
Davis, CA 95616

Santa Fe Teaching Zoo
3000 NW 83rd Street
Gainesville, FL 32606

University of West Florida
11000 University Parkway
Pensacola, FL 32514

There are many two year colleges in California and other states that offer Associate of Arts degrees and certificates in zoological/veterinarian/biological sciences or related fields. The Regional Occupational Program, which works with many high schools and offers animal assistant classes, is another resource.

To begin a career working with or caring for animals you should start by volunteering. You can call your local zoo, humane society, veterinary clinic, or wildlife center to find out what help they might need. The internet is a great resource for locating some private sanctuaries.

Volunteering establishes you as a dedicated worker and gives you important job experience for future positions. Many facilities hire from their ranks of volunteers due to their experience and familiarity with the job. This will give you an inside track in a competitive market.

As a volunteer you have the ability to experiment with the jobs you might want to choose as a career. You can determine what job or jobs best suit your interests before you make the long term commitment of becoming an employee.

There are many opportunities for young adults, college students and anyone interested in animals to volunteer at the Sacramento Zoo. Visit the Volunteer page for details.