Event Host Lead Part Time

Santa Barbara Zoo; Santa Barbara (CA); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

The Santa Barbara Zoo is looking for an enthusiastic Event Host Lead to coordinate events and ensure a seamless guest experience. This part-time role involves managing logistics, promoting wildlife conservation, and providing excellent customer service. Ideal candidates will have strong organizational and communication skills, with a passion for event planning.

Benefits

Beautiful grounds

Free parking

Guest passes

Discounts

Learning opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience in customer service, marketing, or event planning preferred.
• Ability to handle stress and manage time effectively.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate all aspects of events from scheduling to billing.
• Greet guests warmly and respond to inquiries promptly.
• Monitor activities for compliance and satisfaction.

Skills

Organizational Skills

Communication

Interpersonal Skills

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

College experience preferred

Tools

Computer

Two-way radio

Office equipment

Hand tools

Electric cart

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!

Requirements: Applicant must be a minimum of 18 years of age. Schedule: up to 25 hours per week, including 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 is responsible for ensuring that Zoo events are enjoyable and safe, providing a superior visitor experience while coordinating supporting services. This includes promoting corporate, special, and private events in conjunction with Zoo Catering Services by Rincon.

Essential Duties:

1. Events:
   • Arrive on time, properly dressed, ready to work
   • Maintain a professional appearance and attitude as a representative of the Zoo
   • Coordinate all aspects of events from scheduling to billing and follow-up
   • Assign duties to Event Hosts and review event needs beforehand
   • Coordinate with Rincon’s management and communicate security needs with Safety & Security
   • Support Guest Services during events and regarding admissions
   • Coordinate with Animal Care & Health for animal encounters
   • Check facilities prior to events and communicate needs to Facilities & Horticulture
   • Report notable incidents to Private Events Coordinator immediately
   • Complete end-of-day procedures and assist with First Aid and incident reports
   • Prepare workstations for next-day operations and assist with AV needs in Discovery Pavilion
   • Interface with vendors to ensure successful events
   • Monitor activities for compliance, satisfaction, and problem resolution
   • Promote the Zoo as a venue for various private events
2. Secondary Duties:
   • Handle emergencies professionally
   • Assist with collateral office duties and special events like Member’s Night, Zoofari Ball, and Boo at the Zoo
3. Guest Relations:
   • Greet guests warmly and thank them for visiting
   • Respond promptly to inquiries, complaints, and comments
   • Maintain cleanliness and presentation standards
   • Share information and assist guests as needed
   • Follow the Zoo’s dress code and reflect core values and guest relations standards
   • Practice sustainable, “green” initiatives whenever possible
4. Position Criteria:
   • High School diploma or equivalent; college experience preferred
   • Experience in customer service, marketing, or event planning preferred
   • Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
   • Ability to handle stress, manage time, and work as part of a team
   • Physical ability to access all areas, stand/walk for extended periods, lift up to 50 lbs., and operate tools and equipment
   • Flexible schedule including weekends and evenings
5. Tools Used: Computer, two-way radio, office equipment, hand tools, electric cart.
6. Benefits & Perks: Beautiful grounds, animal collection, free parking, guest passes, discounts, learning opportunities, and more.

Additional notes include the right to revise the job description and the non-sponsorship of visas at this time.