Visitor Experience Ambassador - Arrival (Festival of Lights 2026)
About The Position
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is hiring seasonal Visitor Experience Ambassadors for Arrival, supporting the visitor experience during Fall 2026 and Festival of Lights. The role is intended to begin in late summer and continue through the fall season, including evenings, and through Festival of Lights. The estimated start date is August 19, 2026; orientations are held on a rolling basis. Ambassadors help ensure that guests have a safe, enjoyable, and memorable visit. They manage guest entry at turnstiles, help maintain safe and efficient traffic flow in parking lots, and assist visitors with ticket and membership choices, wayfinding, and personalized recommendations. The position requires a welcoming, adaptable approach and positive communication with visitors and other zoo departments. It is seasonal and non-benefitted, with variable hours of 15–40 per week, subject to an annual limit of 1,500 hours.
Requirements
- Be at least 16 years old; minors must provide a work permit when applicable.
- Work outdoors in all climates and weather conditions, in prolonged stationary or frequently moving positions.
- Move, transport, or position 35 pounds without assistance.
- Be able to work safely around moving vehicles and in high-traffic outdoor environments.
- Maintain dependable attendance and flexibility with assigned work schedules.
- Be able to complete the job requirements with or without reasonable accommodation.
- Be trainable in cash handling and maintain the proper skill level.
- Be available at least three days per week, including one weekend day, and for at least five hours per available day. Students may initially provide availability for two days per week, increasing to three days once classes are over.
Nice To Haves
- Previous experience with point-of-sale stations and functions is a plus but is not required.
- A friendly, empathetic attitude and ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds.
- Enthusiasm, energy, and eagerness to initiate friendly guest interactions.
- Willingness to adapt and learn on the job.
- Passion for wildlife and connecting people with nature.
Responsibilities
- Manage high-volume guest entry at turnstiles while maintaining accuracy, efficiency, and a welcoming demeanor.
- Help ensure safe and efficient traffic flow in and out of parking lots.
- Help guests select tickets or memberships that meet their needs.
- Assist guests with wayfinding and personalized recommendations.
- Communicate positively and in a friendly manner with the public and other zoo departments.
- Handle cash after training and maintain the required skill level.
Benefits
- Competitive pay starting at $14 per hour.
- Opportunities for performance-based pay increases.
- Flexible scheduling to accommodate students and retirees.
- Complimentary Zoo tickets and employee discounts.
- Incentive programs and employee engagement opportunities.
- Fun, team-oriented work environment.
- Free Metro Bus pass for the duration of employment.
- Opportunities for personal and professional growth.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
