What are the responsibilities and job description for the Visitor Experience Ambassador - Arrival (Fall 2026) position at Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden?
Visitor Experience Ambassador – Arrival Fall 2026
Overview:
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden (CZBG) is seeking enthusiastic, outgoing individuals ready to create unforgettable experiences for our visitors. As a member of the Visitor Experience Department, you’ll have the chance to make a meaningful impact on hundreds of thousands of guests, both from the Greater Cincinnati area and around the globe. Our team works together to deliver an exceptional, INSPIRED Visitor Experience every day.
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden (CZBG) is seeking enthusiastic, outgoing individuals ready to create unforgettable experiences for our visitors. As a member of the Visitor Experience Department, you’ll have the chance to make a meaningful impact on hundreds of thousands of guests, both from the Greater Cincinnati area and around the globe. Our team works together to deliver an exceptional, INSPIRED Visitor Experience every day.
What Makes a Great Arrival Visitor Experience Ambassador:
- A friendly, empathetic attitude and the ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds.
- Enthusiasm and energy to create a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
- Eagerness to initiate friendly interactions with guests.
- A willingness to adapt and learn on the job.
- Previous experience with Point-of-Sale stations and functions is a plus but not required.
- A passion for wildlife and connecting people with nature.
By building Collaborative Relationships, displaying Positivity & Energy, having Pride, Passion, and a Sense of Ownership, supporting Accountability, Mutual Trust, & Respect, and embracing Progressive Thinking, we’ve developed/created a dedicated team that focuses on our visitors, community, and future.
We are looking for Ambassadors anticipating working Fall 2026. The estimated start date for this position will be August 19th. The intention for this position is to start in late summer, work through the fall season (including evenings), and continue through Festival of Lights.
Orientations will be held on a rolling basis.
As a Visitor Experience Ambassador in Arrival, you’ll play a vital role in ensuring our guests have a safe, enjoyable, and memorable visit. Your duties will include:
- Turnstiles: Manage high-volume guest entry periods at the turnstiles while maintaining accuracy, efficiency, and welcoming demeanor.
- Parking Lots: Ensuring the safe and efficient flow of traffic in and out of parking lots.
- Ticketing/Membership: Helping guests select the tickets or memberships that best meet their needs. Assisting guests with wayfinding and other personalized recommendations.
Requirements:
- 16 years of age or older. (Minors will be required to provide a work permit when applicable.)
- Constantly work outdoors in all climates and weather conditions with prolonged stationary positions or frequent movement positions.
- Move, transport or position 35 lbs. unassisted.
- Communicate with the public and other zoo departments in a positive, friendly manner.
- Must be trainable on cash handling and maintain proper skill level.
- Ability to work safely around moving vehicles and in high-traffic outdoor environments.
- Demonstrates an ability to maintain dependable work attendance and flexibility with assigned work schedules.
- Must be able to complete the requirements of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.
CZBG is committed to supporting employee success. While we strive to accommodate individual needs, we recognize that some requests may not be feasible. However, we are dedicated to working collaboratively with our team to find the best solutions.
Availability:
- This is a seasonal, non-benefitted position with variable hours ranging from 15-40 per week (not to exceed an annual total of 1500 hours).
- The season lasts from March 1st, 2026 to January 3rd, 2027.
- Must be available at least 3 days per week, including 1 weekend day (Saturday or Sunday). Individual must be available for at least 5 hours per available day.
- Students may initially provide availability for 2 days per week, increasing to 3 days once classes are over.
- Shifts range from 8:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., with most daytime shifts falling between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Evening shifts fall between 2:45pm and 11pm.
- Shifts typically last 5-8 hours.
Benefits:
- Competitive pay starting at $14/hour
- Opportunities for performance-based pay increases
- Flexible scheduling to accommodate students and retirees
- Complimentary Zoo tickets and employee discounts
- Incentive programs and employee engagement opportunities
- A fun, team-oriented work environment
- Free Metro Bus pass for the duration of employment
- Opportunities for personal and professional growth
What You’ll Gain:
- Through hands-on training and team engagement, you will:
- Build valuable skills and enhance your resume.
- Develop transferable talents for any career field.
- Improve interpersonal communication through guest interactions.
- Strengthen critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
- Gain experience with cash handling and logistical planning.
Join our team and help create unforgettable moments for visitors at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden!