Guest Services Worker - Winter Seasonal

This is a seasonal position:
Winter Season will start October 27, 2026 and run through January 3, 2027. We are currently looking for applicants who can commit to working 20 hours and at least four days per week, with evening and weekend availability. Employees in seasonal positions may not work more than 1200 hours during the fiscal year.

Hello, we’re Metro! Metro is dedicated to shaping a better future for the greater Portland region. The work the people of Metro do every daybenefitsthe lives of the people who live here, today, and tomorrow.

Are you a people-person with a positive attitude who enjoys providing outstanding customer service to guests from around the globe? Do you thrive in diverse environments, enjoy engaging with people, and take on a variety of responsibilities with enthusiasm? If so, the Oregon Zoo may be the perfect place for you.
Come be a part of our team!

The Oregon Zoo is seeking enthusiastic individuals to join the Guest Services team during our Zoo Lights season. As a Guest Service Worker, you'll help create memorable experiences for thousands of guests by welcoming visitors, selling and scanning tickets, operating attractions such as the carousel and train, and supporting special events including brew festivals and more.

Success in this role requires balancing warmth and hospitality with professionalism and accountability. Team members must be comfortable communicating expectations, enforcing policies and safety requirements, and responding calmly and respectfully if guests become frustrated or upset.

We are looking for individuals who are outgoing, energetic, reliable, and committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive environment for all guests. This position requires flexibility and evening availability during the Zoo Lights season.

• Serve at various stations across the zoo, including admissions, public and private events, special exhibits, and popular attractions such as the carousel and train.
• Communicate expectations, restrictions, operational updates, and logistical information clearly and confidently to individuals and groups while maintaining positive guest relationships.
• Communicate confidently and clearly, including making announcements and providing group instructions as needed.
• Operate ticket scanning devices, point-of-sale (POS) terminals, credit card terminals, and other related equipment with accuracy and efficiency, selling and validating zoo tickets and services in a timely and professional manner.
• Assist with end-of-day procedures, including shutting down equipment, cleaning work areas, and reporting any operational needs to the lead or manager.
• Maintain a high level of energy and enthusiasm to ensure all guests feel acknowledged, supported, and informed. Answer inquiries regarding ticketing, zoo exhibits, events, amenities, and zoo policies with professionalism, clarity, and confidence, even during challenging interactions.
• Provide outgoing customer service while interacting with guests and staff in a courteous, positive, and engaging manner.
• Maintain a welcoming and inclusive environment while consistently enforcing zoo policies and safety requirements, using sound judgment and escalating concerns when appropriate.
• Respond professionally to guest concerns and challenging situations using empathy, active listening, and de-escalation techniques.

• Exceptional Customer Service
  :
  Demonstrates a proactive approach to guest satisfaction by anticipating needs, maintaining a courteous and professional demeanor, and creating a welcoming environment for all visitors.
• Confident and Respectful Policy Enforcement:Able to set clear expectations, establish appropriate boundaries, and consistently enforce rules and procedures in a courteous, equitable, and respectful manner. Balances guest service with safety and operational requirements.
• Professional Composure and De-escalation:Demonstrates emotional resilience and professionalism when working with upset, frustrated, or confrontational guests. Uses empathy, active listening, and effective communication to de-escalate situations while maintaining organizational policies…