Event Host Seasonal

Do you enjoy creating memorable experiences while supporting a meaningful mission? The Santa Barbara Zoo is hiring an Event Host to oversee private and public events, ensuring smooth operations and guest satisfaction while promoting our commitment to conservation and education. Join our team and help make every Zoo event unforgettable and impactful!

Position Status: Seasonal, Part-Time, Non-Exempt, Hourly Compensation: $16.50 per hour Schedule: Up to 25 hours per week. This position is seasonal, starting immediately and ending on 9/1/2025.

SUMMARY:

Under general direction of the Director of Guest Services & Events, Events & Guest Services Manager, the Event Coordinator, and Event Leads, the Events Host is responsible for making sure that events held at the Zoo are a wonderful, enjoyable, and safe experience for all concerned, in order to accomplish our goals of providing a superior visitor experience while successfully coordinating all supporting services. Events may include and are not limited to corporate events, weddings, birthdays, special events, hosted meetings, and zoo events.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

Arrives on time for scheduled shift, professionally dressed and ready to begin work

Maintains a professional appearance and composure at all times, as a representative of the Zoo

Prepares electric cart(s) for service, and operates cart according to Zoo policies and safety standards

Inspects and prepares the Hilltop area, restrooms, and other event sites upon arrival. Helps with event setup as needed

Sets up front gate private event check-in area, and prepares to greet vendors and event guests

Escorts all deliveries and service providers from the entrance gate to the event site, and out to the parking lot when they are through

Sets up for guests’ arrival at the front gate, and performs a count once guests have arrived

Answer questions and direct guests as needed

Collaborates with Zoo Catering Services (ZCS) and other service providers on a frequent basis to ensure their needs are being met, and that Zoo policies and protocols are being adhered to

Spot checks cleanliness of restrooms and cleans up as needed. Acts as lead for bathroom maintenance for all after-hour events

Ensures proper and timely cleanup of all areas used by the client and service providers

Manages the flow of traffic to and from the event site area in conjunction with the other Event Host(s) on duty and the front gate staff, as necessary

Inspects property at the end of the event for damage, lost items, and other discrepancies. Reports any discrepancies to the Event Coordinator

Fills out the Event Evaluation Form of the event at the end of each event that details the event, and any problems that arose during the event

Submits an event report to the Events Coordinator at the end of every evening event

Maintains order and ensures adherence to safety rules/protocols

Handles emergency situations in a professional manner and according to Zoo policy and protocols

Occasional collateral office duties, as required

Adheres to the Zoo’s policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Policy Manual

Ensures that Zoo rules, policies, and protocols are being adhered to by all concerned

Applies and exemplifies “green” (sustainable) practices whenever possible

Attends all events-specific safety and operation training

SECONDARY DUTIES:

Zoo Special Events, including, but not limited to, Roar & Pour, Zoo Brew, and Boo at the Zoo; The specific duties related to these events will vary based on event size and requirements.

Guest Relations:

Greets every guest with a smile

Thanks guests for supporting/visiting the Zoo

Ensures the Zoo’s presentation standards for cleanliness and maintenance are met by keeping work areas clean, picking up trash, reporting unsafe or unsightly conditions

Associates with guests to assist and share information Responds to all guest inquiries, complaints, and comments according to Zoo guest relations procedures Maintains a clean neat appearance and adheres to the Zoo’s uniform dress code Takes responsibility for staying informed about happenings at the Zoo, such as reading employee communications and attending meetings Reflects the qualities outlined in the Guest Relations Statement, the Zoo’s Core Values, and the Employee Pledge Applies and exemplifies “green” (sustainable) practices whenever possible

POSITION CRITERIA:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements and environmental characteristics described below are representative of the knowledge, skill, ability, and working and physical elements required of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education & Experience:

Customer service experience preferred

At least 18 years of age

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, and our guests

Ability to maintain a diligent, friendly, and professional demeanor

Attention to details

Team oriented

Effective oral communication skills

Ability to effectively problem solve

Ability to follow oral and written direction

Ability to exercise safe work habits

Ability to simultaneously assist and interact with guests, while overseeing the event

Must be enthusiastic, outgoing and personable

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

Requires the ability to access all areas of the facility

Must be able to climb stairs and stand/walk for up to two continuous hours

Involves walking out-of-doors in all weather conditions (climate in Santa Barbara is mild)

Supportive and open employment culture

Regularly lifts and carries objects weighing up to 20 lbs

Occasionally lifts and carries objects weighing up to 50 lbs

Tools Used:

Hand tools

Electric cart

Two-way radio

Flashlights

Office Equipment

BENEFITS & PERKS:

Great team, beautiful grounds, amazing animal collection, sunshine & ocean view almost year-round!

Free parking, free guest passes, unlimited free tea/coffee every morning, 20% discounts on food services and retail purchases

Access to the Collabornation learning platform, professional development, and lunch & learn opportunities

You must also complete the Zoo's Official Employment Application on the next page in order to be considered for the position

Please make sure to check your spam folder if you do not see an email response from the Zoo.

This job description is representative of the expectations of the position described. Additional duties, reporting relationships, and/or position criteria may be assigned as deemed necessary by the Chief Executive Officer or authorized representative. No changes to this job description shall be made without written permission by the Chief Executive Officer or authorized representative.

The Zoo reserves the right to revise this job description at any time. The job description does not constitute a contract for employment, and does not guarantee employment for any specified period of time. The job description does not in any way alter the at-will employment relationship.

At this time, the Zoo does not sponsor employment or internship visas.