Ranger

Houston Zoo•Houston, TX

108d

About The Position

The Zoo Ranger is a member of the Houston Zoo’s Health, Safety, and Security team, responsible for supporting the health, safety, and security of guests, staff, and animal residents. The Ranger conducts proactive patrols, responds to emergencies, monitors security systems and restricted areas, documents incidents, and helps open and secure zoo facilities. The role also supports special events, animal-keeper activities, lost-and-found processes, and crowd management; provides guest service and conservation education; and mentors new Rangers. Rangers participate in training, maintain required certifications, follow zoo policies and emergency protocols, and contribute to operational priorities and the zoo’s conservation mission. Houston Zoo connects communities with animals and inspires action to save wildlife. Its vision is to lead the global movement to save wildlife. The zoo cares for more than 6,000 permanent animal residents and welcomes over 2 million guests annually. It combines conservation, education, and promotion of sustainable livelihoods in local communities. Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least one year of progressively responsible work experience.
Valid driver’s license with an acceptable motor vehicle record to meet Houston Zoo insurability standards.
Ability to complete and maintain active status in a Defensive Driving course to operate company vehicles.
Complete and maintain First Aid, AED, and CPR certifications.
Eligibility to complete and receive Non-Commissioned Security Officer certification through the Texas Department of Public Safety, Private Security Bureau; no current or prior Class A or B misdemeanors or felony convictions.
Strong observational and problem-solving abilities.
Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to handle high-pressure situations professionally and calmly.
Familiarity with first aid procedures and emergency response.

Responsibilities

Patrol zoo grounds to monitor guest, staff, and animal safety and identify or address potential hazards.
Respond promptly and professionally to emergencies, including first aid, lost children, safety concerns, and other incidents.
Monitor surveillance equipment, access points, and restricted areas for compliance with safety and security protocols.
Document and report incidents, safety concerns, and unusual activities accurately and thoroughly.
Open and secure zoo facilities, ensuring areas are safe and operational before and after guest hours.
Assist with logistics for special events, including setup, security, and guest-flow management.
Support animal keeper activities by securing paths, assisting with animal transfers, and ensuring guest safety during demonstrations.
Help manage lost and found and reunite lost children with guardians in a timely manner.
Provide customer service by answering questions, offering directions, and sharing information about exhibits, programs, and conservation efforts.
Engage guests through educational stories and experiences that connect them to wildlife protection and the zoo’s mission.
Assist with crowd management and support a positive visitor experience during peak times and special events.
Stay current with zoo policies, emergency response protocols, and departmental guidelines.
Participate in training to maintain certifications such as first aid and CPR and develop job-related skills.
Mentor new Rangers on protocols, best practices, and guest-service standards.
Promote conservation initiatives and inspire guests to protect wildlife and reduce environmental impact.
Help reduce waste and water and energy use, and inspire guests and staff to take wildlife-protection actions.
Contribute to other operational priorities and perform other job-related duties as requested.