Seasonal Train Driver

Blank Park Zoo; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive income

Excellent working environment

Benefits included

Job summary

A local zoo in Des Moines is looking for a trained Train Driver to operate the train during guest rides. This role involves speaking to guests about the zoo's wildlife and conservation efforts while ensuring a high level of customer service. Applicants should have public speaking experience and the ability to maintain a valid driver's license. The position requires a highly positive personality and flexibility to work varying hours. A commitment to the zoo's mission is essential.

Qualifications

• Ability to operate the train during shifts.
• Must communicate effectively with guests and staff.
• Must maintain a positive and enthusiastic demeanor.

Responsibilities

• Operate the train throughout the assigned shift.
• Perform daily maintenance checks.
• Deliver information about zoo animals during rides.

Skills

Public speaking

Customer service

Basic vehicle maintenance

Effective communication

Attention to detail

Education

Experience in public speaking

Job description

Position Purpose

Under the direction of the Guest Experience Supervisor or Manager on Duty, the Train Driver will operate the train throughout the assigned shift. They will perform daily maintenance checks, give an approximately 10-minute long ride while doing a speech, and help load and unload the train between rides. The speech includes information about the individual animals living at the zoo, as well as information about the zoo’s conservation and education programs. Additionally, the Train Driver supports our Zoo Mission, which is to inspire an appreciation of the natural world through conservation, education, research, and recreation.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

Essential Functions

• Operate the Train for the entirety of the scheduled shift including walking the full train back and performing daily maintenance checks
• Comfortable with public speaking - must give a short speech during every ride
• Ability to communicate effectively with guests, co-workers, and other zoo staff
• Enthusiastic and outgoing personality
• Excellent customer service and communication skills
• Basic experience with vehicles, comfortable performing maintenance checks
• Able to work weekends, holidays, special events, and evenings
• Must have a valid driver’s license and be over the age of 18
• Ability to pass a background check
• Enthusiastic – Must be excited about the zoo and our mission
• Attentive – Must be aware of the surrounding environment at all times, even while performing a speech
• Detail Orientated – Must pay attention to small details and report anything out of the ordinary to the manager and/or maintenance staff
• Flexible – Ability to be flexible with available hours
• Positive – Must be a positive and effective team member
• Communicator – Must be able to communicate politely and effectively with guests and other staff members
• Efficient – Ability to quickly and competently complete tasks

Physical Requirements

Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles and the like.
☐ Never ☐ Occasionally ☒ Constantly
Moving self in different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments including tight and confined spaces.
☐ Never ☐ Occasionally ☒ Constantly
Remaining in a stationary position, often standing or sitting for prolonged periods.
☐ Never ☒ Occasionally ☐ Constantly
Moving about to accomplish tasks or moving from one worksite to another.
☐ Never ☐ Occasionally ☒ Constantly
Adjusting or moving objects up to 50 pounds in all directions.
☐ Never ☒ Occasionally ☐ Constantly
Communicating with others to exchange information.
☐ Never ☐ Occasionally ☒ Constantly
Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers.
☐ Never ☐ Whenever ☒ Constantly
Operating machinery and/or power tools.
☒ Never ☐ Occasionally ☐ Constantly
Operating motor vehicles or heavy equipment.
☐ Never ☐ Occasionally ☒ Constantly
Assessing the accuracy, neatness and thoroughness of the work assigned.
☐ Never ☒ Occasionally ☐ Constantly
Driving.
☐ Never ☐ Occasionally ☒ Constantly
Stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling –
☐ Never ☒ Occasionally ☐ Constantly
Reaching with hands and arms.
☐ Never ☐ Occasionally ☒ Constantly
Tasting or smelling.
☐ Never ☒ Occasionally ☐ Constantly
Vision

Required education and experience

Public speaking experience preferred.

Additional eligibility requirements

Must be able to maintain work hours that will serve the needs of the Blank Park Zoo. Must be able to maintain calm and act professionally in all situations such as emergencies and guest interactions.

Licenses/Certifications

State of Iowa Driver’s License or ability to obtain.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. Click or tap here to enter text.

EEO Statement

Blank Park Zoo is an equal opportunity employer and gives employment and promotional consideration without regard to race, color, sex, religion, age, disability, disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam era, and any other protected class as required by local, state, or federal law. We seek applicants for employment who are dedicated, hardworking and seek fulfilling employment. In return, Blank Park Zoo offers competitive income, benefits, and an excellent working environment.