DescriptionBirmingham Zoo Inc. (BZI) is a nonprofit, Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited Zoo and regional tourist attraction serving the greater Birmingham community and beyond. We advance wildlife conservation through responsible animal care, education, and local and global conservation efforts in support of our mission, Inspiring Passion to Conserve the Natural World.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Guest Services Assistant is responsible for efficient, accurate, and welcoming service to members, groups, and guests, including processing transactions and supporting daily front gate operations. This role serves as a lead cashier, assisting supervisors and managers with operational tasks, coordination, and support to ensure consistent service and smooth daily operations.
All employees serve as ambassadors of the Zoo and are expected to act in a professional manner consistent with the Zoo’s mission and its core values of Passion, Excellence, Teamwork, Stewardship, and Inclusion. This expectation applies when interacting with the public or when reasonably perceived as representing the organization.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Provides front gate services, including greeting guests, answering questions, and processing admissions, memberships, and group transactions to support a welcoming and efficient guest experience.
- Supports membership and group sales processes, including assisting with inquiries, promoting offerings, coordinating check-ins, and maintaining accurate records and communications.
- Applies cash handling and point-of-sale procedures, including processing payments, reconciling transactions, and supporting accurate daily reporting.
- Serves as a lead cashier by supporting opening and closing procedures, assisting with training, providing guidance to staff, and filling in as a cashier as needed to maintain consistent service and operational standards.
- Adheres to all organizational policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Handbook and applicable departmental guidelines.
- This job description reflects the general nature of the work and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties. This position may be assigned additional duties reasonably related to the employee’s primary responsibilities and organizational needs, provided such duties are within the employee’s training, experience, and safety requirements and do not materially change the nature of the position.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
For purposes of this job description, “staff” may include employees, volunteers, interns, and other assigned personnel.
- No direct supervisory responsibility for staff.
- Demonstrates professionalism, accountability, and adherence to organizational policies, safety procedures, and training requirements, serving as a model for staff.
SAFETY ANALYSIS
- This position involves exposure to hazards common to both office and operational Zoo environments, including regular work in outdoor areas.
- Specific training and procedures will be provided to maintain safety of people as the highest priority, followed by the safety of the animal collection.
- Use and understanding of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required based on assigned tasks and work locations.
- Employees are required to follow all Zoo safety policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Handbook and Emergency Procedure Manual and to promptly report injuries, incidents, or safety concerns through established reporting channels.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described below are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this position, with or without reasonable accommodation.
- Ability to perform both desk-based tasks and active, operational duties within the Zoo environment.
- Ability to stand, walk, and move for extended periods across indoor and outdoor work areas.
- Ability to use hands, fingers, and tools or equipment required for assigned tasks.
- Ability to communicate effectively, including exchanging information with others.
- Ability to occasionally move, lift, or carry items up to 20 pounds, depending on assigned duties.
- Ability to work in varying environmental conditions, including exposure to weather, uneven terrain, and wet surfaces.
QualificationsQUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
Birmingham Zoo Inc. recognizes that skills and knowledge may be gained through a combination of education, paid employment, volunteer service, and other relevant experiences. Candidates who meet most of the qualifications for a position are encouraged to apply.
Education and Work Experience
- High school diploma or equivalent is required.
- Approximately one year of experience in customer service is preferred; experience with cash handling and in retail, zoological institutions, tourism, or other attraction-based environments is a plus.
Skills, Knowledge, and Desired Qualities
- Demonstrates basic math and cash handling knowledge, including understanding of financial processes and accuracy in transactions.
- Communicates clearly and respectfully with guests and team members and collaborates effectively to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
- Demonstrates organization, attention to detail, and professionalism, maintains proficiency with standard computer applications, and demonstrates an interest in supporting conservation-focused and mission-driven work.
Other Requirements
- May be required to operate Zoo-owned vehicles (including golf carts), powered equipment, and/or ride or attraction systems. In such cases, must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving record in accordance with Zoo policy. A pre-employment Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) check will be conducted, and an annual MVR review is required.
- May be required to travel on occasion.
HOURS OF WORK
- Work schedules are based on operational needs and may include any combination of weekdays, weekends, evenings, holidays, and special events.
- Employees may be required to work during emergency situations or unusual operational circumstances.
ORGAZATIONAL COMMITMENT
Birmingham Zoo Inc. is committed to fostering a safe and welcoming workplace and encourages applicants with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences to apply. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions. Birmingham Zoo Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
APPLICATION PROCESS
- Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
- Final candidates may be subject to background screening and drug testing, in accordance with applicable law.
This job description outlines the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position and does not constitute an employment contract. The Zoo reserves the right to modify duties, responsibilities, and requirements at any time based on operational needs.
Employment with Birmingham Zoo Inc. is at-will and may be terminated by either the employee or the organization at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with applicable law.
