Special Events Associate

The Special Event Associate is a Part-Time Seasonal position, with a pay rate of $15.00 per hour, that will work as a member of the Zoo Crew. They must perform at all DZS locations including the Belle Isle Nature Center (BINC) and at offsite events as necessary. They will work in conjunction with the DZS’s marketing and events team, public and guest relations, on-site sales, and community relations and operations departments.

This job description is by no means all inclusive and may be subject to change during a performance period due to the needs of the Detroit Zoological Society and its leadership. This document will be reviewed on a continual basis and will be modified as needed.

• The Special Event Associate must represent the organization in a positive way.
• Interact with guests and sponsors.
• Works as part of the Special Events team.
• Assists with event setup and breakdown.
• Collaborates with the Special Events Team for day of event logistics and problem solving.
• Must be an outgoing individual who works well with others, including children and guests of all ages.
• They must be able to stand or walk for extended periods of time.
• Special Event Associate must be able to read individuals’ social cues to understand the level of interaction each guest may want.
• Ideal applicants for the position of Special Event Associate should be motivated in generating enthusiasm.

• Must be 18 years or older.
• Must have high school diploma/ GED or be working towards completion.
• Must have experience working with people of all ages; experience working with children is a plus.

• Must be willing to work outdoors in all-weather conditions.
• Must have excellent verbal communication skills.
• Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Must perform Special Event Associate duties in a manner deemed acceptable according to DZS standards.
• Must be flexible with regard to scheduling and be available for events on weekends as well as during the week.
• Must possess a highly personable disposition and animated personality with good interpersonal communication (verbal and non-verbal) skills and creativity. Must be friendly, courteous, reliable and punctual.
• Service-oriented team player who can take initiative, work independently and quickly adapt in a fast-paced environment.
• Must be able to work with, direct, and relate well with co-workers, staff and guests while maintaining the standards of the DZS.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.
• Before hire, must clear a thorough background check.

Experience in special events, and/or hospitality background preferred.

The regular work schedule may vary based on event and need for the Special Event Associate. During peak season, the scheduled hours will be closer to 40 hours per week. After peak season, need and hours scheduled will drop off. This will include weekends, evenings, early-mornings and holidays. The work environment will occur both indoors and outdoors with exposure to seasonal weather conditions for special events and tours;

may require travel to other locations and to meetings. This individual may be exposed to computer monitors and will have exposure to outside weather conditions, as well as the output from air conditioning and heating systems and fluorescent lighting.

This position may require the individual to stand for long periods of time, and perform physical effort on a daily basis such as walking, bending, stooping, and standing for extended periods of time. The Special Event Associate must be in good physical and mental health and be able to lift approximately 50 lbs.

The individual must have the ability to perform the essential functions of the job satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

Just as we value and celebrate biodiversity, the DZS celebrates the diversity of our human community. We are committed to ensuring that our programs and facilities are fully accessible to create a welcoming and inclusive workplace for all.