Security Officer (Part-time, Relief)

Oakland Zoo; Oakland (CA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 34,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee Assistance Program

Paid Sick Time

403(b) Retirement Plan

Discounted Zoo Membership

Job summary

Oakland Zoo is seeking Security Officers for part-time relief shifts: day, swing, and overnight. The position ends on September 30, 2027, with potential extensions based on organizational needs.

Pay rates are set by shift to maintain internal equity and align with compensation philosophy. Responsibilities include incident reporting, patrols, alarm response, and public safety duties while delivering excellent customer service.

Qualifications

• Must be 18+ years old and able to obtain California Security Guard Card.
• At least 1 year of relevant security/public-facing experience.
• Able to read, write, and follow directions in English.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean record.

Responsibilities

• Initiates and writes incident reports to protect Zoo assets.
• Patrols grounds and manages gate access, traffic, and safety.
• Monitors alarms and oversees rides and areas.
• Assists with investigations and security audits.
• Performs site checks and escorts revenue as required.
• Protects staff, guests, and Zoo assets while providing courteous service.

Skills

Patrol procedures

Customer service

Communication

Problem solving

English proficiency

Job description

Description

Note:

This is a part-time, relief position. It is expected to end on September 30 2027, with potential to extend depending on the needs of the organization. We are looking to hire 3 people - 1 each for the day shift, swing shift and the overnight shift.

Pay rate:

To maintain internal equity, we have identified the pay rate for this position at the Oakland Zoo as $23.39 per hour (day shift) / $24.39 per hour (swing shift) / $24.74 per hour (overnight shift), in alignment with Oakland Zoo’s compensation philosophy. An offer at this pay rate will be our best and final compensation offer.

Position Summary

The Security Officer is an essential member of the Oakland Zoo team, providing both security and excellent customer service to our staff and guests. They support everyone in having the most positive and enjoyable experience possible and extend professional courtesy and assistance to the public and Zoo employees while preventing, identifying, and reporting illegalities and policy violations.

Essential Job Duties

• Initiates and writes Accident/Incident/Hazard Reports and various other documentation required to protect Zoo assets and liability.
• Conducts vehicle and foot patrols relative to opening and locking gates, Robbery Prevention, Public Safety, and Building Security.
• Sets and responds to alarms and opens/closes rides, picnic, and party areas.
• Assists with Internal Investigations.
• Conducts Employee Personal Property Checks, Food Stand Walkthroughs, and Break Room/Warehouse Checks.
• Performs Revenue Escorts.
• Staffs the Main gate, controls parking, and manages traffic flow.
• Monitors and reports Zoo and Employee vehicle excessive speed violations and improper or careless use of Zoo Equipment.
• Performs other related duties as required and assigned.

Who you are:

• At least 18 years old
• Have a current State of California Security Guard Card or be willing to get one with the assistance of the Oakland Zoo.
• At least 1 year of relevant experience, including experience working with the public.
• Able to problem solve and effectively read, write, and take directions in English.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record and ability to meet insurance carrier.
• Reliable, dependable, honest, courteous, and professional while ensuring confidentiality when necessary.
• Available to work weekends and holidays unless otherwise authorized.

Bonus if you have:

• Previous security experience

Work Environment

• Work indoors and outdoor environments in various weather conditions, including inclement outdoor weather conditions such as heat, cold, wind and rain.

Physical Considerations

Activities that are commonly associated with the performance of the functions of this job. The physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Able to bend and twist, lift, stand, kneel, sit, walk, bend, stoop and speak regularly and for long periods of time (up to 8 hour shifts or more)

Knowledge/Skills/Qualities

May be representative, but not all-inclusive, of those knowledge, skills and abilities commonly associated with this position.

• Dependability – demonstrates trustworthiness and reliability, including while working with little or no direct supervision
• Communication – communicates respectfully and effectively with stakeholders across identities, both verbally and in writing
• Inclusive Culture - fosters a culture of mutual respect, transparency, collaboration and belonging which allows all employees to feel appreciated, included, and valued.
• Passion – wholeheartedly believes in, represents, and models Oakland Zoo’s mission and PRIDE values at all times.
• Wildlife Aware - understands mission to support the conservation and welfare of animals at The Zoo, locally and globally. This is demonstrated by a willingness/passion to reflect this mission in all actions and to continue to learn how to take action for wildlife.
• Sustainability – oriented toward the mission and values of the Oakland Zoo and able to put those into practice by finding creative and resourceful ways to develop sustainable practices within your role and department.

Benefits

Oakland Zoo offers part-time and seasonal employees a valuable benefits package, including an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Paid Sick Time, optional 403b Retirement Plan, and a discounted Zoo Membership. They also have access to various perks, discounts, and programs to enhance their overall experience.