Job Title: Guest Experience Event Associate

Department: Events
Reports to: Director of Events / Event Coordinator

Location: Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo, Bridgeport, CT
Employment Type: Seasonal/Non-Exempt

Position Summary

The Guest Experience Events Associate supports the planning and execution of Zoo events, guest programs, and attractions, including special events, birthday parties, and carousel operations. This role delivers high-quality guest service while ensuring a safe, organized, and engaging environment for visitors. Responsibilities include event support, guest interaction, program facilitation, and attraction operations.

Schedule / Hours

Standard operating hours: Monday–Sunday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Glow Wild event hours: Thursday–Sunday, 4:30 PM – 10:30 PM(September through December, annually)
Work schedules are developed and communicated in advance based on employee availability provided at time of hire and may vary based on operational and event needs
Must be available to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events, with schedules provided in advance whenever possible

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Event Operations (Glow Wild & General Events)

Provide excellent guest service, including greeting guests, answering questions, and giving directions
Assist with guest check-in, crowd flow, and traffic direction
Monitor guest safety and promptly report incidents or concerns
Support event setup, breakdown, and on-site logistics
Assist with coordination of vendors (e.g., caterers, florists, rentals)
Maintain clean, organized, and welcoming event spaces
Operate Zoo vehicles (e.g., golf carts) as assigned and in accordance with safety guidelines

Birthday Party Program

Serve as host for children’s birthday parties from start to finish
Welcome guests, facilitate activities, and maintain event timelines
Coordinate with Education staff on animal encounter components (if applicable)
Manage event setup, cleanup, and overall guest experience
Ensure all materials, belongings, and event needs are addressed prior to guest departure
Deliver a safe, engaging, and memorable experience for participants

Carousel Operations

Operate and monitor the carousel in accordance with all safety procedures and training requirements
Maintain cleanliness and operational readiness of the carousel area
Perform routine cleaning (e.g., sweeping, wiping surfaces)
Respond to guest inquiries related to carousel operations and Zoo attractions
Support event activities associated with carousel use

General Responsibilities

Comply with all Zoo policies, procedures, and safety standards
Maintain a professional appearance and conduct at all times
Support cross-departmental operations as needed
Accurately record all hours worked in compliance with Connecticut General Statutes §31-13a
Follow all timekeeping and payroll procedures
Perform additional duties as assigned

Qualifications and Requirements

Education & Certifications:

High school diploma or equivalent preferred
Must be at least 18 years of age
Ability to obtain Carousel Operator Certification (if assigned)

Experience & Skills:

Prior experience in customer service, hospitality, events, or attractions preferred
Strong communicationand interpersonal skills; ability toengage withdiverse audiences
Ability to manage high guest volumes while maintaining safety and service standards
Strong organizational and multitasking skills in a fast-paced environment
Reliable, flexible, and adaptable to changing operational needs
Ability to work independently and collaboratively
Demonstrates professionalism, sound judgment, and attention to detail

Physical Demands

Prolonged standing and walking across Zoo grounds, including uneven terrain
Frequent bending, reaching, and lifting
Ability to lift and carry up to 25–50 pounds
Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions (events held rain or shine)
Ability to safelyoperateequipment andassistguests andoperateequipment

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

Work Environment

Primarily outdoor work environment with exposure to varying weather conditions
Frequent interaction with large and diverse guest populations
May require use of personal protective equipment (PPE) as appropriate
Requires availability for evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events

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