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- Tasks: Transport guests and narrate tours while ensuring a fun experience at Brookfield Zoo.
- Company: Join Brookfield Zoo, a leader in wildlife conservation and guest engagement.
- Benefits: Enjoy perks like mental health support, a 401(k) plan, and flexible hours.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting team that connects people with nature and wildlife.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, have strong customer service skills, and a valid driver's licence.
- Other info: Work in diverse weather and enjoy a dynamic, seasonal role with varied shifts.
Join the PRIDE! This seasonal non-union hourly position at Brookfield Zoo Chicago (BZC) contributes to providing an extraordinary guest experience and supports BZC's financial sustainability by operating Motor Safari trams, buses, and attractions.
Responsibilities include:
- Transporting guests
- Narrating tours
- Operating attractions
- Providing transportation for events
- Managing access control at Motor Safari stations and Carousel
- Responding to guest inquiries with excellent customer service
The position is classified as grade GS006-2 with a pay rate of $17.80 per hour (effective 04.01.25). Brookfield Zoo operates 363 days a year. The work schedule includes various shifts, including weekdays, weekends, and holidays. Candidates who can commit to at least three days per week, including one weekend day, are preferred. Shifts typically last 4 to 8 hours, starting as early as 8:00 AM and ending as late as 7:00 PM, with extended hours on weekends or for special events.
The role requires operating large vehicles in crowds, speaking on a microphone, and working in diverse weather conditions. A minimum age of 18 and a valid driver's license are required.
Primary Job Duties and Responsibilities:
- Provide high-quality customer service and assist guests with directions.
- Deliver narrated tours on Motor Safari trams and buses safely, including through large crowds, and conduct walking tours.
- Learn and communicate approved tour materials and special event information.
- Follow all institutional policies, departmental protocols, and safety procedures.
- Maintain a neat appearance and keep vehicles and attraction areas clean.
- Manage access control for Motor Safari and Carousel, ensuring guests have valid tickets or memberships.
- Assist with operating attractions like the Carousel and Virtual Reality, performing safety checks and daily operational tasks.
- Assist with Mold-A-Rama machine filling and other duties as assigned.
Position Requirements:
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Strong customer service skills.
- Good communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to communicate effectively with the public.
- Basic math and reading skills.
- Flexibility, patience, and cultural competency.
- Valid driver's license required; Illinois residents must obtain one within 90 days if applicable.
Preferred Qualifications:
- High school diploma or GED.
- Experience in customer service.
- Driving experience transporting people.
- Theatrical or public speaking experience.
- Multilingual abilities, especially Spanish.
This role involves a high level of customer service, adherence to policies, and working non-standard hours, including evenings, holidays, and weekends. The position may require random drug testing under Illinois law.
Benefits: See the provided link for detailed benefits, which include mental health support, a 401(k) plan with matching contributions after one year, and other perks. Benefits may vary based on union status and pay grade. Brookfield Zoo is open 363 days annually, and schedules may include non-traditional hours. Our mission is to inspire conservation leadership by connecting people to wildlife and nature. We are an equal opportunity employer.
Motor Safari - Adventure Guide & Tram Driver (Seasonal) employer: Brookfield Zoo Chicago
Contact Detail:
Brookfield Zoo Chicago Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Motor Safari - Adventure Guide & Tram Driver (Seasonal)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Brookfield Zoo and its attractions. Understanding the layout, key exhibits, and special events will help you provide better customer service and deliver engaging narrated tours.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your public speaking skills. Since you'll be narrating tours and interacting with guests, being comfortable speaking in front of people is crucial. Consider joining a local group or taking a class to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Highlight any relevant experience in customer service or driving when networking. Connect with current or former employees on platforms like LinkedIn to gain insights about the role and express your enthusiasm for joining the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared for a flexible schedule. Since the position requires working weekends and holidays, showing your willingness to adapt your availability can make you a more attractive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Motor Safari - Adventure Guide & Tram Driver (Seasonal)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read through the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements. Highlight key skills such as customer service, communication, and driving experience that are essential for the position.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects relevant experience, especially in customer service or roles involving public speaking. Emphasise any previous work with large groups or in outdoor settings, as this will resonate with the role's requirements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for providing excellent guest experiences. Mention specific examples from your past that demonstrate your ability to handle diverse situations and communicate effectively with the public.
Highlight Availability: Clearly state your availability in your application. Since the role requires flexibility with shifts, including weekends and holidays, make it clear that you can commit to at least three days a week, including one weekend day.
How to prepare for a job interview at Brookfield Zoo Chicago
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Since this role heavily relies on customer interaction, be prepared to share examples of how you've provided excellent service in the past. Highlight any experiences where you went above and beyond to assist guests or resolve issues.
✨Demonstrate Communication Abilities
As you'll be narrating tours and interacting with diverse guests, practice speaking clearly and confidently. Consider rehearsing a short tour script to showcase your public speaking skills during the interview.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Role
Research the Motor Safari and its attractions. Understanding the key responsibilities and being able to discuss them will show your enthusiasm for the position and your commitment to providing a great guest experience.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and how you handle challenging situations. Think of scenarios where you had to manage difficult guests or unexpected events, and be ready to explain your approach.
