Event Host Lead - Part Time

Santa Barbara Zoo; Santa Barbara (CA); On-site; Part time

Job summary

The Santa Barbara Zoo is looking for an Event Host Lead to manage logistics for events, ensuring a seamless guest experience. This part-time role involves coordinating events, supporting guest services, and promoting wildlife conservation. Ideal candidates should have strong organizational skills and experience in customer service or event planning.

Benefits

Free parking

Guest passes

Free coffee/tea

Discounts

Access to learning platforms

Professional development

Qualifications

• Experience in customer service, marketing, or event planning preferred.
• Must be a minimum of 18 years of age.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate all aspects of corporate and social events.
• Ensure a superior visitor experience while coordinating supporting services.
• Monitor event activities for compliance and satisfaction.

Skills

Organizational Skills

Effective Communication

Customer Service

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

College experience

Tools

Computer

Two-way radio

Job description

Are you an organized and enthusiastic leader with a passion for event planning? The Santa Barbara Zoo is seeking an Event Host Lead to coordinate private and public events, manage logistics, and ensure a seamless guest experience while promoting wildlife conservation and education. Join our team and help create unforgettable moments for our guests!

Requirement: Applicant must be a minimum of 18 years of age
Schedule: up to 25 hours per week, weekends and holidays

Position Status: Part-Time, Regular, Hourly, Non-Exempt
Compensation: $17.50/hour

*You must also complete the Zoo's Official Employment Application on the next page to be considered for the position*

SUMMARY:

Under the general direction of the Events Coordinator, Events & Guest Services Manager, and the Director of Events & Guest Services, the Events Lead ensures that Zoo events are enjoyable and safe, providing a superior visitor experience while coordinating supporting services. This role also promotes corporate, special, and private events in conjunction with Zoo Catering Services by Rincon.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Arrive on time, dressed appropriately, and ready to work
• Maintain a professional appearance and attitude as a Zoo representative
• Coordinate all aspects of corporate and social events, including scheduling, grounds showing, billing, and follow-up
• Assign duties to Event Hosts and review event needs beforehand
• Collaborate with Rincon management on event day
• Communicate security needs to Safety & Security
• Coordinate support from Guest Services for events and gate needs
• Work with Animal Care & Health to accommodate animal encounters
• Check facilities before events and communicate needs to Facilities & Horticulture
• Report notable incidents immediately to Private Events Coordinator
• Complete end-of-day procedures, including Event Evaluation
• Assist with First Aid and incident reports as needed
• Ensure workstations are prepared for next-day operations
• Support AV needs for Discovery Pavilion events
• Assist with interviews as needed
• Interface with vendors to ensure successful events
• Monitor event activities for compliance and satisfaction
• Promote the Zoo as a venue for various private events

SECONDARY DUTIES:

• Handle emergencies professionally per Zoo policies
• Perform occasional office duties
• Support special Zoo events like Member’s Night, Zoofari Ball, and Boo at the Zoo

Guest Relations:

• Greet guests warmly and thank them for visiting
• Respond promptly to inquiries via phone, email, and in person
• Maintain cleanliness and safety standards
• Assist guests with information and resolve complaints
• Adhere to uniform and presentation standards
• Stay informed about Zoo happenings and reflect core values
• Practice sustainable practices whenever possible

POSITION CRITERIA:

Must perform all duties satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for disabilities.

Education & Experience:

• High School diploma or equivalent
• Experience in customer service, marketing, or event planning preferred
• College experience preferred

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• Strong organizational skills
• Data entry and word processing proficiency
• Effective communication skills
• Respectful interaction with staff and guests
• Ability to follow directions and manage time efficiently
• Handle stress calmly and professionally
• Attention to detail and teamwork orientation

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

• Access all facility areas; ability to climb stairs and stand/walk for extended periods
• Work outdoors in all weather conditions
• Occasionally lift objects up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to operate a cart safely

Tools Used:

• Computer, two-way radio, office equipment, hand tools, electric cart

BENEFITS & PERKS:

• Beautiful grounds, animal collection, and ocean views
• Free parking, guest passes, free coffee/tea, discounts
• Access to learning platforms and professional development

*You must also complete the Zoo's Official Employment Application to be considered for the position.*

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