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 routine patrols during assigned shifts, identifies and responds to security, safety, and operational concerns, and provides excellent guest service and support. The Security Guard safeguards zoo property, facilities, equipment, and other organizational assets; communicates and coordinates responses to severe weather; and participates in emergency preparedness, response, and evacuation procedures under established zoo protocols. The position may also support guest parking operations, respond to incidents and emergencies, and assist with crowd management during special events and peak attendance periods. Security Guards support 24-hour operations and must be available for varied shifts, including evenings, overnight shifts, weekends, holidays, and special events. Full-time employees typically work 40 hours per week; additional hours may be required for emergencies, severe weather response, or other operational needs.

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 working in the security field.
Valid driver's license required and must be maintained.
Strong customer service skills and commitment to a positive guest experience, including with children.
Effective verbal and written communication skills.
Strong conflict resolution and de-escalation skills.
Sound judgment and ability to remain calm and professional in emergencies or high-pressure situations.
Self-motivated and able to work independently with minimal supervision.
Ability 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.
Experience collaborating with diverse groups of guests, staff, volunteers, and external partners.
Basic proficiency with computers, mobile devices, and radio communications.
Flexibility and availability to work weekdays, evenings, overnight shifts, weekends, holidays, and special events as needed.
Ability to frequently stand and walk for most of an 8–10-hour shift; regularly bend, kneel, reach, climb, and perform repetitive motions.
Ability to frequently lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds, and occasionally handle heavier items with assistance.
Ability to safely navigate ladders, stairs, uneven surfaces, and wet or slippery areas.
Adequate vision, hearing, hand dexterity, and clear communication to safely use tools, equipment, vehicles, and radios.
Ability to work indoors and outdoors year-round in all weather conditions, with routine exposure to dust, dirt, chemicals, cleaning agents, noise, and equipment vibration.
Ability to follow safety procedures and use required PPE; some tasks may involve power tools, machinery, or motorized vehicles.
Ability to learn new tasks, remember processes, maintain focus, work independently, and make timely decisions.
Successful completion of pre-employment criminal background check, drug screening, and satisfactory Motor Vehicle Record review.
Participation in annual Tuberculosis screenings is required.

Responsibilities

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