Job Details

Park Security Representative

The Park Security Representative is an entry-level position that aids the public in emergency and nonemergency situations, helps to protect the Zoo property, and enforces ZooTampa's safety policies and procedures. The Park Security Representative strives to give the highest level of care and guest service in every interaction. Please note that this is a seasonal part-time position that is expected to run through the end of December 2026.

ZooTampa at Lowry Park is one of the most popular zoos in the southeastern U.S., with over 1 million visitors annually. We have grown to what now encompasses 56 acres of naturalistic wildlife habitats in a lush, tropical garden setting with wide-ranging activities. The Zoo, accredited by Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), offers popular educational programming, fun recreational amenities, up-close animal encounters and engaging seasonal events for which it has won awards as one of the country's most family-friendly zoos. Our mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and care for animals; create exceptional personalized experiences that connect people with wildlife and each other in fun, immersive ways. Our vision is that everyone we touch is motivated to join us in taking action to protect and preserve wildlife. Join us and become a part of creating unforgettable natural connections!

Your day to day:

• Interacts in a consistently pleasant and helpful manner to fellow employees, guests, vendors, and other visitors of the Zoo and demonstrates the highest standards of internal and external customer service.
• Performs patrol duties for all areas of the Zoo including the parking lot, perimeter, interior Zoo areas, and access points.
• Acts as first responder and attends to any team members or guests that are injured by providing first aid, CRP, and/ or AED until medical personnel arrives.
• Works closely with Operations staff in all types of emergencies.
• Performs bag searches and/or metal detection to ensure Guest Policy compliance.
• Patrols parking lots and directs traffic as needed.
• Assists in investigations of all accidents/incidents by providing detailed and complete information as required.
• Responsible for providing guest control, including challenging situations.
• Respond to all alarms as dispatched.
• Respond to lost child situations.
• Assist in proper handling of lost and found items.
• Provides escorts to cash handling personnel as needed.
• Practice good safety awareness and ensures employee and guest safety at all times.
• Writes reports of daily activities and irregularities, such as equipment or property damage, theft, presence of unauthorized persons, or unusual occurrences. Maintains log of all activity on duty.
• If working overnight shift, may be required to assist the Maintenance and Animal department with overnight duties such as monitoring pumps, collecting water samples, maintaining temperatures in the various habitats, etc..

What are we looking for?

• A high school or equivalency diploma required. Some college coursework preferred.
• Security experience preferred but not required
• Guest services or guest relations experience required.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain First Aid/CPR/AED certification.
• Must be personable and enjoy interacting with people. Individuals will be expected to provide exceptional customer service to all guests, sometimes in stressful situations.
• Comfortable assisting in situations such as medical and natural emergency procedures, and preparedness.
• Knowledge of occupational hazards and appropriate safety precautions.
• Must be self-directing and able to prioritize work.
• Must possess excellent organizational skills with high accuracy and attention to detail.
• Must be flexible and have the ability to multi-task in a fast paced environment while maintaining a positive attitude with the public.
• Ability to follow specific instructions, communicate ideas, and contribute effectively to the department.
• Able to deescalate situations in a friendly and calm manner.

Other Requirements:

• Conducts all activities in alignment with AZA standards and guidelines, all relevant laws and regulations, safety standards, and standards that ensure animal welfare.
• Ability to work in extreme weather conditions typical to west central Florida (i.e., heat, rain, or cold).
• Ability to use radio, telephone, and computer to communicate and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Must be willing and able to work varied and long shifts including holidays, weekends, and specials events as well as be available for unexpected shifts.
• Must be able to work in a variety of physical positions, including sitting, bending, standing, reaching, and walking.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Must be able to drive a golf cart.

Our Perks at ZooTampa:

• Employee Assistance Program
• Discounted gym membership
• Free membership to the Zoo, MOSI, Glazer Children's Museum, and the Florida Aquarium
• Free or discounted admission to many attractions in Florida
• Discounts on food, beverage, and merchandise
• And so much more!