Security Officer; Temporary

SALARY & FLSA: $32.47 per hour; FLSA non-exempt. Temporary employees under the Joint Crafts Council wage scale are placed at the first step of the job classification's pay range, which is $32.47 per hour. EMT certification qualifies for an additional $2.00 per hour. Shift differential of $1.50 applies for work between 6:00 pm and 6:00 am.

OPENING DATE: 06/10/2026

CLOSING DATE: 06/24/2026 (may close sooner or be extended)

JOB TYPE: Temporary

UNION: Represented

OPENINGS: 1

LOCATION: Onsite

DEPARTMENT: Security

The Safety and Security Department is committed to fostering a safe and equitable environment through empathetic listening, active engagement, and the integration of best practices into all aspects of our operations. We work collaboratively with colleagues, guests, and stakeholders to identify and address security concerns through innovative and strategic solutions.

• Protect the lives and property of our animals, guests, and staff through delivering impartial security services.
• Inspire and advance the restoration of relationships between humans and the living world around us.
• Target criminal activity and disorder through prevention and positive actions.
• Maintain a higher standard of integrity than is generally expected of others.
• Value and respect the dignity of all life and render all services with courtesy and civility.

Woodland Park Zoo attracts more than 1.3 million visitors each year. We connect people with wildlife and remind them of what’s at stake in our changing world. Our job is to motivate people to take action and provide them with the tools needed to join us in saving endangered species. Our mission is “To save wildlife and inspire everyone to make conservation a priority in their lives.”

• Customer First Attitude:
  Happy to interact with guests, from providing directions to offering a sticker to a child with a skinned knee.
• Provide Care and Consideration:
  Respond to medical emergencies with EMT and EQ training, using the lowest level of force.
• Prepared & Calm:
  Outfitted in a bullet‑proof vest and full gear, calm demeanor so guests and staff feel comfortable approaching you.
• Outdoorsy & Observant:
  Vigilant and responsive on all weather conditions while making rounds across the zoo’s 92 acres.
• Timely Communication:
  Monitor the radio system, respond promptly to calls, and write incident reports.

• Patrol grounds on foot, bike, or vehicle including parking lots, perimeter, buildings, equipment, and associated parks.
• Provide assistance and service, ensuring the safety of zoo visitors and staff.
• Provide First Aid and, if EMT certified, advanced medical assistance.
• Maintain consistent use, upkeep, and distribution of the zoo radio system.
• Maintain accident/incident reports and daily security report files.
• Serve on the Emergency Response Team and participate in emergency drills.

• Associate’s degree from an accredited two‑year college or technical school; or at least six months of related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Preferred:
  Training/certification in CPR/First Aid, OC Pepper Spray, Handcuffing, and Defensive Tactics.
• Must live and work in Washington State.
• Must be at least 18 years old, hold a valid Washington driver’s license and safe driving history.

• 4 complimentary zoo tickets per year plus other discounts and perks.
• Accrue 1 hour of sick leave for every 30 hours worked.
• 403(b) retirement plan.
• Free staff parking.
• Employee Assistance Program.

Woodland Park Zoo is committed to diversity and encourages people of all backgrounds to apply. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religion, political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity. In order to provide reasonable accommodation, please contact our recruiting team.