Seasonal Ride Operator

Binder Park Zoo; Battle Creek (MI); On-site; USD 17,000 - 22,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive wages

Flexible hours

Free fountain soda and coffee

50% off meals

Comprehensive training

Free zoo membership

Job summary

Binder Park Zoo in Battle Creek, MI is seeking energetic individuals to join our team as Ride Operators for the 2026 season. You will ensure guest safety while operating the carousel, tram and train, and deliver friendly, efficient service in a fun environment.

These seasonal, hourly roles require a neat appearance, reliable transportation and the ability to adapt to changing schedules, including evenings, weekends and holidays. Training is provided and benefits are not included.

Qualifications

• Minimum 18 years old with a valid driver's license and clean driving record.
• Must be able to operate rides (carousel, tram and train) and maintain safety.
• Relate positively with diverse groups including guests and staff.
• Strong work ethic and detail oriented.
• Able to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to plan, organize and handle multiple tasks.
• Flexible schedule including evenings, weekends and holidays.
• Basic math skills for cash handling.

Responsibilities

• Operate rides safely and efficiently (carousel, tram, train).
• Provide guest service in a professional, courteous manner.
• Perform opening and closing duties of the assigned area.
• Identify and report mechanical problems of zoo equipment.
• Enforce ride safety rules with guests and staff.
• Assist in loading, unloading and securing guests and belongings.

Skills

Customer service

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Multitasking

Adaptability

Cash handling

Flexible schedule

Tools

Cash register

Job description

Looking for a fantastic job that is fun and rewarding? Do you enjoy working with people and helping guests have a great experience? Do you need flexible hours that work with your schedule? If so, we want to meet you!

We are looking for smiling faces to join our team at Binder Park Zoo for the 2026 season. Our mission is to connect people with nature and inspire them to conserve. We are passionate about educating on wildlife conservation and looking for enthusiastic people to be a part of the journey. Nestled in 433 acres of serene landscape, and home to over 70 different species, we are the third largest zoo in Michigan. Join our team where you will have the opportunity to work with friendly people and do something that supports wildlife advocacy. Ever work at a zoo, it's fun! At Binder Park Zoo you will be a part of a dynamic and collaborative environment where your ideas and contributions are valued. We love what we do working at the zoo, and we think you will too.

What we offer:

• Competitive wages.
• Flexible hours to fit your work/life balance needs.
• Free fountain soda and coffee during your shift.
• 50% off your meals at our restaurants during your shift.
• Comprehensive training to build new skills.
• Free zoo membership.

RIDE OPERATOR

REPORTS TO: Operations Manager, Director of Operations

SEASONAL OR NONSEASONAL: Seasonal, Non-benefited

FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Non-Exempt

POSITION SUMMARY:

Provide exceptional customer service while operating the zoo rides (carousel, tram and train) in a safe and efficient manner.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

• Minimum 18 years of age with a valid driver's license with an excellent driving record to operate tram and train.
• Minimum 18 years of age to operate the carousel.
• Relate positively with diverse groups of people, including guests, staff, volunteers and vendors.
• Must have a strong work ethic and be detailed oriented.
• Must be able to work independently and as part of a group.
• Ability to plan, organize and handle multiple tasks as necessary.
• Must be able to adapt to changing assignments, environment and maintain a positive attitude.
• Comply with all Binder Park Zoo policies and procedures.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including evenings, weekends and holidays.
• Basic math skills for purposes of cash handling.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Basic computer and cash register operation.
• Performing job in a professional, knowledgeable and courteous manner.
• Responsible for guest safety in/on/around the rides.
• Understanding of the functions and mechanics of the zoo equipment.
• Identifying and reporting possible mechanical problems of the zoo equipment.
• Performing the opening and closing duties of assigned area.
• Communicating and enforcing ride safety rules and guidelines with guests and staff.
• Assist in the loading, unloading and securing of guests and their belongings including but not limited to wheelchairs, motorized aids, and strollers.

OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILLITIES:

• Assisting with the maintenance of the ride (cleaning and preventive maintenance).
• Assisting with the maintenance of the train tracks and areas surrounding the train route.
• Assisting with the upkeep and appearance of assigned areas, including buildings, depots, routes and roads.
• Assisting staff with emergency situations as directed
• Participating in individual and team-oriented zoo projects as necessary.
• Management reserves the right to train and direct the workload as needed.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: N/A

PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS:

• Ability to sit, stand, bend, lift and move intermittently.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to read, speak and write English in order to fulfill job functions in an understandable way.
• Ability to work outside in all weather conditions.