Temporary Emergency Telecommunicator

The North Carolina Zoo is expanding, and we are seeking a dynamic, efficient, and enthusiastic individual to serve as a Temporary Emergency Telecommunicator team member. The Telecommunicator supports the Zoo’s Emergency Operations and Security & Risk Management branch, providing essential public safety, emergency communications, and operational support to ensure a safe and secure environment for guests, employees, volunteers, facilities, and the animal collection.

• Receive, assess, and prioritize emergency and non‑emergency calls from Zoo staff, guests, and partner agencies in a calm and professional manner.
• Dispatch Zoo Police, Veterinary Services, Animal Care, Maintenance, Security, and other responders using radio, telephone, and computer‑aided dispatch systems in accordance with established protocols.
• Monitor alarms, access control systems, cameras, and emergency notification platforms, promptly identifying and reporting potential safety or security concerns.
• Maintain continuous situational awareness during incidents and relay accurate, timely information to field personnel, supervisors, and outside agencies.
• Document all calls, radio traffic, and incident activity accurately and thoroughly in accordance with Zoo policies and public safety standards.
• Follow established guidelines and communication protocols to promote the safety of guests, staff, volunteers, and animals.
• Coordinate multi‑departmental and multi‑agency responses during routine operations, emergencies, and special events.
• Assist with incident escalation, information flow, and communication support during critical events, weather emergencies, or animal‑related situations.
• Maintain professional radio and telephone discipline, ensuring messages are concise, clear, and compliant with established procedures.
• Support emergency preparedness activities, record keeping, and operational reporting as directed.
• All other duties as assigned.

• Experience in emergency telecommunications.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) or similar systems.

• Provide guests with exceptional customer service, including those outlined in the Emergency Operations Training Manual.
• Be knowledgeable of park policies and procedures for handling guests and emergency situations; approach and address guests in a professional manner.
• Assist guests with way finding throughout the Zoo.
• Assist with guest escorts from the park.
• Respond to radio communication calls, including heated situations, lost or separated guests, lost personal items, and similar matters. Report unresolved situations to Zoo Communications.
• Respond appropriately and assist in potential emergency situations.
• Follow established guidelines to promote the safety of guests and staff.
• Assist with minor first aid situations.
• Use radio and telephone to communicate and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Must complete Security Awareness upon hiring.
• Must possess sufficient cognitive ability, auditory and visual acuity, and communication skills to perform essential duties and follow general safety practices.
• Assist with parking vehicles and directing traffic on Connector Road and in parking lots, including overflow areas.
• Drive golf carts, and/or vehicles as a mode of transportation throughout the park.
• Must be able to navigate paved as well as rough or uneven pathways.
• Ability to work in extreme weather conditions typical to Central NC (heat, rain, or cold) and stand or walk for extended periods.
• Must be willing and able to work varied and long shifts, including holidays, weekends, and special events as needed. This is an 11‑month position.
• Must be able to work in a variety of physical positions, including sitting, bending, reaching, standing, walking, and lifting or carrying 30 lbs.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must meet DNCR Fleet Safety Guidelines and have the ability to obtain and maintain a valid U.S. driver’s license or obtain one within 90 days of employment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

High School or General Education Development (GED) diploma

Sufficient experience to demonstrate an ability to work under pressure situations

An equivalent combination of education and experience

4401 Zoo Parkway, Asheboro, NC 27205

The State of North Carolina is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and is dedicated to providing employees with a work environment free from all forms of unlawful employment discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. The state provides reasonable accommodation to employees and applicants with disabilities; known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; and for religious beliefs, observances, and practices.