Open Job Positions
About the Potawatomi Zoo
Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums since 1987, the Potawatomi Zoo is seeking a highly motivated and experienced individual to join a rapidly growing facility. Since 2018 the Zoo has invested over $20 million in capital improvements, taking this once small community zoo to a modern zoological facility focused on its mission of conservation and education. This is an exciting time of change and an opportunity for the right person to make a huge impact on the Zoos future.
Job Description:
Reporting to the Director of Finance and Facilities Operations , the Zoo Custodial Manager is a hands-on position, responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and appearance of all public spaces and office buildings within the Zoo. Such areas include but are not limited to: non-animal holding facilities and areas, administration offices, Gift Shop, public and staff restrooms, breakrooms, classrooms, conference rooms, vet hospital, restaurant, and outer animal exhibit glass.
The ideal candidate would take on an ownership mentality of the Zoo, being able to identify areas for improvement and streamline the custodial procedures needed to keep the Zoo up to the appropriate standards. The Zoo works with the Department of Corrections, providing support labor. This individual would be responsible for delegating tasks to these individuals as needed.
Responsibilities:
- Oversight of all custodial responsibilities throughout the Zoo. This includes organizing cleaning procedures and schedules to ensure all work is completed.
- Delegate tasks to custodial support. This will require working alongside vetted inmates from the Department of Corrections. Candidates will be required to take a yearly 2-day course on the management of DOC employees.
- This is a hands-on position that requires the supervisor to be actively participating in the work throughout the Zoo.
- Manage supply inventory on a weekly basis. Restocks supplies of soap, tissues, towels, and other disposable items.
- Seeks out areas requiring cleaning; takes initiative to recognize what needs to be done and takes the appropriate actions to incorporate it into the routine.
- Continually monitor Guest areas for custodial services.
- Contributes to the team; exhibits professionalism with guests, fellow employees and others.
- Maintains custodian closet in a clean and orderly fashion.
- Understands and observes all safety rules.
- Reports all accidents or incidents.
- Corrects or reports all safety hazards.
- Answer and complete custodial service requests as needed.
- Organize work routines.
- Completes all tasks assigned by Facilities Manager
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
- Two or more years in a supervisor or managerial custodian position
- Current Driver’s License.
- Ability to pass a background check
- Hands on knowledge of equipment, materials and supplies used in custodial work.
- Must be organized and proactive when recognizing what needs to be done.
- Ability to work independently with very little direction.
- Lift heavy objects.
- Stand and walk for duration of shift.
- Ability to use all equipment of the custodial position, including but not limited to hand tools, vacuums, broom, mop and various other tools.
- Have a strong attention to detail.
- Flexibility in scheduling based on Zoo events.
- Able to work in all weather conditions
This is a full-time position with full benefits.
Positions within this area are Admissions/Membership, Ticket Booth, Stroller Booth, Carousel and Gift Shop. All of these positions will provide professional and courteous service to guests and be crossed trained in all Guest Services positions.
Positions available: Admissions, Membership, Ticket Booth, Carousel and Gift Shop
Pay rate: $12.25/hr
Responsibilities:
- Interact/communicate with guests and staff in a professional, helpful, and courteous manner at all times.
- Accurately count money/make change.
- Operate a computerized point of sale system or electronic cash register.
- Maintain an enthusiastic and welcoming demeanor.
- Adapt to changing assignments, or environment and while maintaining a positive attitude.
- Actively promote events and other zoo related activities.
- Work in a fast-paced environment.
- Inventory and organize the retail areas.
- Restock merchandise as needed.
- Follow all Zoo policies and procedures
Qualifications:
- Must be 15 years old or older
- Have availability and flexibility to work 3-4 days a week or more including weekends, holidays and evenings
- Maintain clean and safe work environment.
- Ability to multi-task.
- Ability to Stoop, Stand, Lift and Sit multiple times throughout a scheduled shift.
- Ability to work outside in all weather conditions.
- Ability to support other areas of the Zoo
- Communicate information.
- Pass a Criminal Background Check
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to these positions. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required of Guest Service employees. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
About The Zoo
Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Potawatomi Zoo is home to more than 400 animals and exceeds the standards for zoos in animal care and quality of life, conservation, and education programs. Potawatomi Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Indiana, and since its humble origin, it has become a focus of fun and educational activity in the Michiana area.
Advantages of working at the Zoo:
- Flexible schedule 7 days a week (between 9am and 8pm)
- Seasonal Part Time and Seasonal Full-Time hours available (health benefits available for seasonal full-time staff)
- Monthly bonus with Zoo match at the end of the season
The Food Service Associate provides exceptional customer service while assisting with food preparation, serving, and maintaining cleanliness in the food service area. This position is responsible for ensuring the timely and accurate delivery of food orders, helping customers with their needs, and maintaining a safe and clean environment.
Pay rate: $12.25/hr
Responsibilities:
- Greet and interact with customers in a friendly and professional manner.
- Assist with food preparation, including portioning and plating items.
- Serve food and/or beverages to customers quickly and accurately.
- Ensure food safety and hygiene standards are met at all times.
- Operate kitchen equipment and tools safely and efficiently.
- Maintain cleanliness in food preparation areas, dining areas, and restrooms.
- Monitor inventory levels and assist with stock replenishment as needed.
- Handle cash and process transactions accurately using the point-of-sale (POS) system.
- Assist in maintaining a smooth workflow during busy periods.
- Collaborate with team members to provide excellent customer service.
- Follow Potawatomi Zoo policies and health and safety regulations at all times.
Qualifications:
- 16 years old or older
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
- Basic math skills for handling cash and processing transactions.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays.
- Must pass background check if over 18 years of age.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to stand for extended periods.
- Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
- Ability to work in hot and noisy environments.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to these positions. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required of Guest Service employees. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
About The Zoo
Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Potawatomi Zoo is home to more than 400 animals and exceeds the standards for zoos in animal care and quality of life, conservation, and education programs. Potawatomi Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Indiana, and since its humble origin, it has become a focus of fun and educational activity in the Michiana area.
Advantages of working at the Zoo:
- Flexible schedule 7 days a week (between 9am and 8pm)
- Seasonal Part Time and Seasonal Full-Time hours available (health benefits available for seasonal full-time staff)
- Monthly bonus with Zoo match at the end of the season
Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Potawatomi Zoo is home to more than 400 animals and exceeds the standards for zoos in animal care and quality of life, conservation, and education programs. Potawatomi Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Indiana, and since its humble origin as a duck pond, it has become a focus of fun and educational activity in the Michiana area.
Advantages of working at the Zoo:
- Flexible schedule
- Seasonal Part-Time and Seasonal Full-Time hours available (health benefits available for seasonal full time staff)
Pay rate: $14.00/hr
Job Summary:
Provide professional and courteous service to guests while operating the train through the Zoo.
Responsibilities:
- Daily maintenance of train and tracks for operation, including adding gasoline, oil and other necessary fluids for operation.
- Completing daily inspection check list of train equipment, reporting any repairs or damage immediately
- Greet guests in courteous and helpful manner
- Adapt to changing assignments, or environment and while maintaining a positive attitude.
- Narration of facts and information about the Zoo
- Assist guests getting on and off the train
- Interact with guests and staff in a professional and courteous manner at all times
- Maintain an enthusiastic and welcoming demeanor
- Actively promote events and other zoo related activities
Qualifications:
- Have availability and flexibility to work 3-4 days during the week or more including weekends, holidays and evenings
- Valid Indiana or Michigan Driver’s License
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Ability to lift 50 lbs.
- Ability to Stoop, Stand, Sit and Climb multiple times throughout a scheduled shift
- Ability to work outside in all weather conditions
- Maintain clean and safe work environment.
- Ability to support other areas of the Zoo, including but not limited to, operating a cash drawer, directing guests during peak hours, other attractions.
- Communicate information
- Pass a criminal background check
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required of Train Drivers. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
HOW TO APPLY
Please mail resume and cover letter to Human Resources at Potawatomi Zoo at 500 South Greenlawn Ave, South Bend, IN 46615 or email HR@potawatomizoo.org. Please note the position you are applying for in email subject line.
The Potawatomi Zoo provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
Open Job Positions
About the Potawatomi Zoo
Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums since 1987, the Potawatomi Zoo is seeking a highly motivated and experienced individual to join a rapidly growing facility. Since 2018 the Zoo has invested over $20 million in capital improvements, taking this once small community zoo to a modern zoological facility focused on its mission of conservation and education. This is an exciting time of change and an opportunity for the right person to make a huge impact on the Zoos future.
Job Description:
Reporting to the Director of Finance and Facilities Operations , the Zoo Custodial Manager is a hands-on position, responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and appearance of all public spaces and office buildings within the Zoo. Such areas include but are not limited to: non-animal holding facilities and areas, administration offices, Gift Shop, public and staff restrooms, breakrooms, classrooms, conference rooms, vet hospital, restaurant, and outer animal exhibit glass.
The ideal candidate would take on an ownership mentality of the Zoo, being able to identify areas for improvement and streamline the custodial procedures needed to keep the Zoo up to the appropriate standards. The Zoo works with the Department of Corrections, providing support labor. This individual would be responsible for delegating tasks to these individuals as needed.
Responsibilities:
- Oversight of all custodial responsibilities throughout the Zoo. This includes organizing cleaning procedures and schedules to ensure all work is completed.
- Delegate tasks to custodial support. This will require working alongside vetted inmates from the Department of Corrections. Candidates will be required to take a yearly 2-day course on the management of DOC employees.
- This is a hands-on position that requires the supervisor to be actively participating in the work throughout the Zoo.
- Manage supply inventory on a weekly basis. Restocks supplies of soap, tissues, towels, and other disposable items.
- Seeks out areas requiring cleaning; takes initiative to recognize what needs to be done and takes the appropriate actions to incorporate it into the routine.
- Continually monitor Guest areas for custodial services.
- Contributes to the team; exhibits professionalism with guests, fellow employees and others.
- Maintains custodian closet in a clean and orderly fashion.
- Understands and observes all safety rules.
- Reports all accidents or incidents.
- Corrects or reports all safety hazards.
- Answer and complete custodial service requests as needed.
- Organize work routines.
- Completes all tasks assigned by Facilities Manager
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
- Two or more years in a supervisor or managerial custodian position
- Current Driver’s License.
- Ability to pass a background check
- Hands on knowledge of equipment, materials and supplies used in custodial work.
- Must be organized and proactive when recognizing what needs to be done.
- Ability to work independently with very little direction.
- Lift heavy objects.
- Stand and walk for duration of shift.
- Ability to use all equipment of the custodial position, including but not limited to hand tools, vacuums, broom, mop and various other tools.
- Have a strong attention to detail.
- Flexibility in scheduling based on Zoo events.
- Able to work in all weather conditions
This is a full-time position with full benefits.
Positions within this area are Admissions/Membership, Ticket Booth, Stroller Booth, Carousel and Gift Shop. All of these positions will provide professional and courteous service to guests and be crossed trained in all Guest Services positions.
Positions available: Admissions, Membership, Ticket Booth, Carousel and Gift Shop
Pay rate: $12.25/hr
Responsibilities:
- Interact/communicate with guests and staff in a professional, helpful, and courteous manner at all times.
- Accurately count money/make change.
- Operate a computerized point of sale system or electronic cash register.
- Maintain an enthusiastic and welcoming demeanor.
- Adapt to changing assignments, or environment and while maintaining a positive attitude.
- Actively promote events and other zoo related activities.
- Work in a fast-paced environment.
- Inventory and organize the retail areas.
- Restock merchandise as needed.
- Follow all Zoo policies and procedures
Qualifications:
- Must be 15 years old or older
- Have availability and flexibility to work 3-4 days a week or more including weekends, holidays and evenings
- Maintain clean and safe work environment.
- Ability to multi-task.
- Ability to Stoop, Stand, Lift and Sit multiple times throughout a scheduled shift.
- Ability to work outside in all weather conditions.
- Ability to support other areas of the Zoo
- Communicate information.
- Pass a Criminal Background Check
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to these positions. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required of Guest Service employees. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
About The Zoo
Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Potawatomi Zoo is home to more than 400 animals and exceeds the standards for zoos in animal care and quality of life, conservation, and education programs. Potawatomi Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Indiana, and since its humble origin, it has become a focus of fun and educational activity in the Michiana area.
Advantages of working at the Zoo:
- Flexible schedule 7 days a week (between 9am and 8pm)
- Seasonal Part Time and Seasonal Full-Time hours available (health benefits available for seasonal full-time staff)
- Monthly bonus with Zoo match at the end of the season
The Food Service Associate provides exceptional customer service while assisting with food preparation, serving, and maintaining cleanliness in the food service area. This position is responsible for ensuring the timely and accurate delivery of food orders, helping customers with their needs, and maintaining a safe and clean environment.
Pay rate: $12.25/hr
Responsibilities:
- Greet and interact with customers in a friendly and professional manner.
- Assist with food preparation, including portioning and plating items.
- Serve food and/or beverages to customers quickly and accurately.
- Ensure food safety and hygiene standards are met at all times.
- Operate kitchen equipment and tools safely and efficiently.
- Maintain cleanliness in food preparation areas, dining areas, and restrooms.
- Monitor inventory levels and assist with stock replenishment as needed.
- Handle cash and process transactions accurately using the point-of-sale (POS) system.
- Assist in maintaining a smooth workflow during busy periods.
- Collaborate with team members to provide excellent customer service.
- Follow Potawatomi Zoo policies and health and safety regulations at all times.
Qualifications:
- 16 years old or older
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
- Basic math skills for handling cash and processing transactions.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays.
- Must pass background check if over 18 years of age.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to stand for extended periods.
- Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
- Ability to work in hot and noisy environments.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to these positions. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required of Guest Service employees. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
About The Zoo
Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Potawatomi Zoo is home to more than 400 animals and exceeds the standards for zoos in animal care and quality of life, conservation, and education programs. Potawatomi Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Indiana, and since its humble origin, it has become a focus of fun and educational activity in the Michiana area.
Advantages of working at the Zoo:
- Flexible schedule 7 days a week (between 9am and 8pm)
- Seasonal Part Time and Seasonal Full-Time hours available (health benefits available for seasonal full-time staff)
- Monthly bonus with Zoo match at the end of the season
Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Potawatomi Zoo is home to more than 400 animals and exceeds the standards for zoos in animal care and quality of life, conservation, and education programs. Potawatomi Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Indiana, and since its humble origin as a duck pond, it has become a focus of fun and educational activity in the Michiana area.
Advantages of working at the Zoo:
- Flexible schedule
- Seasonal Part-Time and Seasonal Full-Time hours available (health benefits available for seasonal full time staff)
Pay rate: $14.00/hr
Job Summary:
Provide professional and courteous service to guests while operating the train through the Zoo.
Responsibilities:
- Daily maintenance of train and tracks for operation, including adding gasoline, oil and other necessary fluids for operation.
- Completing daily inspection check list of train equipment, reporting any repairs or damage immediately
- Greet guests in courteous and helpful manner
- Adapt to changing assignments, or environment and while maintaining a positive attitude.
- Narration of facts and information about the Zoo
- Assist guests getting on and off the train
- Interact with guests and staff in a professional and courteous manner at all times
- Maintain an enthusiastic and welcoming demeanor
- Actively promote events and other zoo related activities
Qualifications:
- Have availability and flexibility to work 3-4 days during the week or more including weekends, holidays and evenings
- Valid Indiana or Michigan Driver’s License
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Ability to lift 50 lbs.
- Ability to Stoop, Stand, Sit and Climb multiple times throughout a scheduled shift
- Ability to work outside in all weather conditions
- Maintain clean and safe work environment.
- Ability to support other areas of the Zoo, including but not limited to, operating a cash drawer, directing guests during peak hours, other attractions.
- Communicate information
- Pass a criminal background check
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required of Train Drivers. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
HOW TO APPLY
Please mail resume and cover letter to Human Resources at Potawatomi Zoo at 500 South Greenlawn Ave, South Bend, IN 46615 or email HR@potawatomizoo.org. Please note the position you are applying for in email subject line.
The Potawatomi Zoo provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.