Zoo Safety & Security Specialist

Zoo New England; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Zoo New England is seeking a Safety & Security Officer to protect guests, staff and animals while delivering excellent customer service in a safe, welcoming environment. You will patrol grounds, monitor surveillance, respond to incidents, and provide first aid when needed.

You will control access, enforce rules, report on incidents, and coordinate with police and fire departments as necessary. This role requires a valid driver's license, the ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays, and a

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• Basic computer and reporting skills.
• Strong communication, listening, and customer service skills, with the ability to de-escalate situations effectively.
• Ability to work as part of a team with professionalism and sound judgment.
• Ability to remain calm, alert, and professional at all times.
• Ability to work respectfully with a diverse population and demonstrate inclusive practices.
• Successful completion of a background check consistent with policy.
• Willingness to work nights, weekends, and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Ensure the safety and security of guests, staff, and animals by actively patrolling zoo grounds.
• Monitor surveillance systems, alarms, cameras, and access points.
• Respond promptly and appropriately to incidents, emergencies, and guest concerns.
• Provide first aid, CPR, and AED support when required.
• Maintain access control for restricted areas.
• Escort vendors, contractors, and inspectors as needed.
• Support guest services by providing directions and assistance.
• Complete accurate and timely reports and documentation.
• Control access to buildings and restricted areas using keys, locks, ID systems, and visitor logs.
• Enforce zoo rules and regulations in a respectful, service-oriented manner.
• Conduct regular patrols of buildings and grounds to identify safety or security risks.
• Inspect fences, gates, doors, and barriers to detect potential breaches.
• Monitor crowd activity and intervene early to prevent escalation.
• Respond to complaints, incidents, and emergencies in accordance with training.
• Coordinate with outside agencies such as police and fire departments when necessary.
• Investigate incidents and suspicious activity and report findings to supervisors.
• Prepare detailed, accurate, and timely incident and shift reports.
• Protect guests, staff, animals, and organizational assets.

Skills

Communication skills

Customer service

De-escalation

Teamwork

Reports writing

Basic IT skills

Driver's license

Background check

Diversity & inclusion

Safety awareness

Education

High school diploma or GED

Security training certificate (preferred)

Job description

Zoo New England is seeking a Safety & Security Officer to protect guests, staff and animals while delivering excellent customer service in a safe, welcoming environment. You will patrol grounds, monitor surveillance, respond to incidents, and provide first aid when needed.

You will control access, enforce rules, report on incidents, and coordinate with police and fire departments as necessary. This role requires a valid driver's license, the ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays, and a