Visitor Experience Ambassador - Attractions (Festival of Lights 2026)

Cincinnati Zoo•Cincinnati, OH

11d•Onsite

About The Position

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is seeking enthusiastic, outgoing individuals to join its Visitor Experience Department as Visitor Experience Ambassadors in Attractions for Festival of Lights 2026. The role helps create a safe, enjoyable, and memorable visit for guests from the Greater Cincinnati area and around the world. Ambassadors welcome guests, assist with rentals and wayfinding, support attraction operations, and provide personalized recommendations. The position involves guest-facing work across the Welcome Center, Safari Train, Carousel, and Giraffe Feedings. This is a seasonal, non-benefitted position with variable hours of 15–40 per week, up to an annual total of 1,500 hours. Employees must be available at least three days per week, including one Saturday or Sunday, 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. Shifts range from 8:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; most daytime shifts are between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., and evening shifts are between 2:45 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. Shifts typically last eight hours. Orientations are held on a rolling basis. The zoo describes its team culture as collaborative, positive, energetic, accountable, respectful, and open to progressive thinking. The position includes hands-on training and opportunities to build transferable skills in communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, cash handling, and logistical planning.

Requirements

Must be at least 16 years old; minors must provide a work permit when applicable.
Must work outdoors in all climates and weather conditions, in prolonged stationary or frequent-movement positions.
Must be able to move, transport, or position 35 pounds unassisted.
Must communicate effectively with the public and other zoo departments in a positive, friendly manner.
Must be trainable in cash handling and maintain the proper skill level.
Must demonstrate dependable attendance and flexibility with assigned work schedules.
Must be able to complete the job requirements with or without reasonable accommodation.
Must be available at least three days per week, including one weekend day, and at least five hours per available day; students may initially provide availability for two days per week until classes are over.

Nice To Haves

Friendly, empathetic attitude and ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds.
Enthusiasm and energy to create a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
Eagerness to initiate friendly interactions with guests.
Willingness to adapt and learn on the job.
Previous experience with Point-of-Sale stations and functions is a plus but not required.
Passion for wildlife and connecting people with nature.

Responsibilities

Assist guests with rentals and wayfinding at the Welcome Center.
Register guests and support ride operations for the Safari Train and Carousel.
Communicate and enforce safety rules for the Safari Train and Carousel.
Operate registration for Giraffe Feedings.
Assist guests with wayfinding and provide personalized recommendations.
Communicate with the public and other zoo departments in a positive, friendly manner.
Handle cash after training and maintain the required skill level.