Security Guard 2nd Shift

Nashville Zoo • Nashville, TN

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Security Guard maintains a safe and secure environment throughout Nashville Zoo and its grounds for guests, staff, volunteers, and animals. The role conducts patrols, identifies and responds to security, safety, and operational concerns, safeguards zoo property and assets, and provides guest service. The Security Guard also communicates and coordinates responses to severe weather, participates in emergency preparedness and evacuation procedures, supports parking and crowd management, and responds to incidents and emergencies. Shifts may include days, evenings, overnight hours, weekends, holidays, and special events, as assigned, to support 24-hour operations.

The position is full-time and typically works 40 hours per week, with scheduling flexibility required. Additional hours may be needed for emergencies, severe weather response, or other operational requirements. The stated pay range is $17.37 per hour.

Employment is at-will and conditional on successful completion of pre-employment screening, including a criminal background check, drug screening, and satisfactory Motor Vehicle Record review. Annual Tuberculosis screenings are also required.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Current State of Tennessee Guard Certification with Dallas Law endorsement required.
• At least two years of experience in the security field required.
• Valid driver’s license required and must be maintained.
• Strong customer service skills, including the ability to create a positive experience for guests and children.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong conflict resolution and de-escalation skills.
• Sound judgment and ability to remain calm and professional during emergencies or high-pressure situations.
• Self-motivated, able to work independently with minimal supervision, and able to self-direct tasks while ensuring safety and productivity.
• Strong observation, situational awareness, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to complete logs, incident reports, and other documentation accurately and promptly.
• Professional demeanor and commitment to organizational standards, integrity, and confidentiality.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups of guests, staff, volunteers, and external partners.
• Basic proficiency with computers, mobile devices, and radio communications.
• Availability to work a variety of shifts, including weekdays, evenings, overnight shifts, weekends, holidays, and special events.
• Ability to meet physical requirements, including frequent standing and walking during an 8–10-hour shift; bending, kneeling, reaching, climbing, and repetitive motions; lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling up to 50 pounds; and safely navigating ladders, stairs, uneven surfaces, and wet or slippery areas.
• Adequate vision, hearing, hand dexterity, and clear communication to safely operate tools, equipment, vehicles, and radios.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors year-round in all weather conditions and to follow applicable safety procedures and use required PPE.
• Ability to learn tasks, remember processes, maintain focus, work independently, and make timely decisions.

Responsibilities

• Conduct routine security patrols throughout the zoo and park grounds.
• Identify, investigate, respond to, and report security, safety, and operational incidents.
• Monitor weather conditions and communicate severe weather alerts, warnings, and response procedures.
• Inspect and monitor security systems, equipment, and safety devices, and report issues.
• Direct vehicle traffic, coordinate parking staff activities, and support safe and efficient guest traffic flow.
• Use communication and conflict de-escalation techniques to manage difficult situations and resolve concerns.
• Prepare and maintain daily activity logs, incident reports, and other required documentation.
• Respond to emergencies, disturbances, medical incidents, and situations requiring security intervention.
• Provide courteous, professional customer service and assist guests with questions, concerns, and requests.
• Participate in emergency preparedness initiatives, training exercises, drills, and response activities.
• Demonstrate commitment to Nashville Zoo’s mission and values and maintain regular, reliable attendance.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Employee Assistance Program offering confidential support for mental, emotional, and financial well-being.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching.
• Paid time off and sick leave.
• Discounts on park experiences, retail, and food services, plus complimentary membership benefits.
• Collaborative and inclusive culture with opportunities for employee growth.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED