Guest Services Associate, NZP

Final date to receive applications: 19 November 2026

Department: Smithsonian Enterprises

Employment Type: Temporary

Location: Washington, DC

Reporting To: Assistant Manager, Guest Services

Compensation: $18.40 / hour

OPEN DATE: November 05, 2026

CLOSING DATE: November 19, 2026

POSITION TYPE: Trust Fund

APPOINTMENT TYPE: Temporary Intermittent

DUTY

LOCATION:

Washington, DC

Position sensitivity and risk: LOW

Open to all qualified applicants

What are Trust Fund Positions? Trust Fund positions are unique to the Smithsonian. They are paid for from a variety of sources, including the Smithsonian endowment, revenue from our business activities, donations, grants and contracts. Trust employees are not part of the civil service, nor does trust fund employment lead to Federal status. The salary ranges for trust positions are generally the same as for federal positions and in many cases trust and federal employees work side by side.

Trust employees have their own benefit program, which may include Health, Dental & Vision Insurance, Life Insurance, Transit/Commuter Benefits, Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance, Annual and Sick Leave, Family Friendly Leave, 403b Retirement Plan, Discounts for Smithsonian Memberships, Museum Stores and Restaurants, Credit Union, Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center (Child Care), Flexible Spending Account (Health & Dependent Care).

Conditions of Employment

• Pass Pre-employment Background Check and Subsequent Background Investigation for position designated.
• Complete a Probationary Period.
• Maintain a Bank Account for Direct Deposit/Electronic Transfer.
• The position is open to all candidates eligible to work in the United States. Proof of eligibility to work in U.S. is not required to apply.
• Applicants must meet all qualification and eligibility requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement.

Our Guest Services Team is looking for outgoing and enthusiastic individuals who love animals, enjoy working with children, and are excited about the opportunity to promote a positive guest experience by creating lasting memories at the Smithsonian National Zoological Park. A normal day in the zoo as a Guest Services Associate is filled with connecting with zoo guests. Our Associates are passionate, energetic, and professional.

Acting as a Zoo ambassador, you will exemplify general knowledge of exhibits, wildlife, and amenities while finding creative ways to inspire guests to support our mission.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Responsible for providing information about attractions and exhibits and information,
• Provide friendly and helpful customer service to Zoo guests. Responds courteously and knowledgeably to Guest inquiries in a timely manner.
• Maintains knowledge of current exhibits and Zoo events, providing information, directions and guidance to Guests as necessary.
• Provide membership information and encourage Guests to support the Zoo’s mission with membership and donations.
• Work to resolve Guest concerns, partnering with Supervisors when necessary.
• Works to ensure the safe and expeditious movement of Guests throughout the Zoo.
• Welcome guests and regulate the flow of people that enter the indoor animal exhibits.
• Scan admission tickets at Zoo entrances and serve as the first point of contact for guests.
• Provide support for all in park events as needed.

Education and Experience: High school diploma or general education diploma (GED)

• At least 1 year of retail and/or customer service experience
• Superior customer service skills, with the ability to actively engage our guests
• Solid selling skills, with the ability to promote membership and donations
• The ability to think on your feet while being flexible, positive, and calm

Zoo employees must be able to work in extreme weather conditions, both hot and cold. Must also be able to work outside during weather events such as in rain and snow. Must be able to work in a confined and limited space. Additionally, our Zoo employees must be able to sit, stand or walk for long periods of time over uneven and hilly terrain, with exposure to a variety of weather conditions.

Must be available to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends, holidays, and extra hours when available.

We are looking for upbeat and outgoing personalities, and dependability is a must!

Education completed outside the United States must be…