Work on the Wild Side!
Turn your passion for animals and conservation into a work experience at African Safari and help our guests create treasured family memories! Each year, we have more than 50 seasonal jobs across every department, including admissions, foodservice, retail, groundskeeping, animal care and education. Many positions open to ages 14 and up.
African Safari Wildlife Park, one of the top family destinations in the Shores & Islands Ohio region, is entering a period of significant growth and investment. Guided by our mission, we are dedicated to inspiring connections between people and wildlife while fostering an appreciation for the natural world.
We’re looking for talented individuals who are passionate about animals, wildlife conservation, and providing amazing guest experiences to embark on this exciting journey with us! Whether you’re an expert in animal care, a leader in guest services, or an advocate for conservation, there’s a place for you on our team.
As the Director of Operations, you will provide our guests with a wildly memorable experience by coordinating essential operations functions such as guest relations, retail, food and beverage, admissions, and point of sale. In addition to providing top-notch customer service, the ideal candidate will demonstrate a willingness to assist across various departments, maintain a positive attitude, and exhibit a passion for learning and growing in a dynamic environment. Efficiency, adaptability, and teamwork are key qualities for success in this role.
The Essential Functions of the job are to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above head, pull, bend, climb stairs and ladders, and carry up to 50 lbs.
Key Responsibilities:
- Admissions
- Manage and supervise all aspects of Park onsite admissions including point-of-sale software, staffing, and customer service
- Work with marketing and sales teams to ensure public-facing staff are trained and aware of all Park promotions and special events
- Food and Beverage
- Supervise all staff and maintain high-quality food safety and professionalism
- Manage all menu items and cost margins, ensuring quality and consistency
- Maintain a Managerial-Level Serve Safe Certificate
- Retail
- Manage and assist in the retail operations including staffing, layout, inventory, stocking, and customer service
- Ensures cleanliness and overall appearance of gift shop and satellite locations
- Coordinate and assist in the procurement of all retail merchandise
- Ensure all merchandise is received and sold in accordance with company policies
- Maintain current knowledge of retail trends
- Information Technology
- Maintain all Park point-of-sale equipment and radios
- Loss Prevention and Cash Control
- Develop, audit and enforce company policies on cash handling
- Assist in daily drawer closeouts and deposits
- Monitor and review all cash deposits and relevant documentation
- Staff Management
- Work closely with Park managers to hire seasonal staff
- Work closely with corporate office staff to complete all company hiring documents
- Coordinate initial general Park training for all new employees and conduct regular customer-service training will all staff
- Maintain Park-wide compliance with all labor laws including but not limited to minor labor laws
- General Tasks
- Oversee all Park policies and procedures
Required Qualifications:
- Must be 18 years of age or older and pass pre-employment screening
- At least 3 years of management experience, preferably including management experience with minor workers
- Experience managing customer-service employees
- Ability to work 40+ hours per week, some of which will be weekend hours
- Flexibility to work after hours and possibly stay overnight, if required
- Regular and dependable attendance and punctuality
- Willingness to travel if needed
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to engage with guests and team members
- Possession of a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record and reliable transportation
- Ability to use private vehicle for work-related tasks on occasion with fuel compensation provided
- Ability to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions
- Ability to use Microsoft Office programs
- Ability to perform labor-intensive tasks, including lifting and moving up to 50 pounds and standing for periods up to 8 hours
- Ability to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above head, pull, bend, climb stairs, and climb ladders
Necessary Skills:
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to engage with guests and team members
- A team player who collaborates effectively with colleagues
- Skilled at public speaking and comfortable engaging with diverse audiences
- Highly organized and capable of functioning independently
- Basic office and organization skills
What We Offer:
- Subsidized health insurance
- Paid time off with increasing accrual rates over tenure
- Opportunities for further education and development
- Team member appreciation days and parties
- Free admission for yourself, family and friends on your days off
- In-Park discounts on retail items and select animal encounters
African Safari Wildlife Park, one of the top family destinations in the Shores & Islands Ohio region, is entering a period of significant growth and investment. Guided by our mission, we are dedicated to inspiring connections between people and wildlife while fostering an appreciation for the natural world.
We’re looking for talented individuals who are passionate about animals, wildlife conservation, and providing amazing guest experiences to embark on this exciting journey with us! Whether you’re an expert in animal care, a leader in guest services, or an advocate for conservation, there’s a place for you on our team.
As the Director of Wildlife, you will take on a senior leadership role overseeing the strategic and operational management of animal care, welfare, and compliance. This position plays a vital role in aligning wildlife programs with the Park’s missions and goals while mentoring a team dedicated to exceptional animal care and guest experiences.
The Essential Functions of the job are to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above head, pull, bend, climb stairs and ladders, and carry up to 50 lbs.
Key Responsibilities:
- Animal Welfare
- Develop and oversee animal welfare programs, including nutrition, veterinary care, enrichment, and habitat design
- Collaborate with veterinary and husbandry teams to ensure health care plans and assist with procedures
- Design engaging animal encounters and educational programs
- Leadership and Team Management
- Supervise and mentor zookeeper staff
- Foster professional development and oversee recruitment and hiring processes
- Collaborate on staff scheduling and training plans
- Regulatory Compliance
- Ensure compliance with USDA, ZAA, and other regulations
- Maintain permits, licenses, and certifications
- Manage inspections and conduct monthly self-audits
- Animal Transfers and Acquisitions
- Oversee animal transfers, acquisitions, and dispositions
- Collaborate with other institutions and coordinate logistics, including transport planning and documentation
- Registrar and Administration
- Utilize AnimalCare Software and similar systems to maintain records.
- Develop long-term plans for the animal collection aligned with the Park’s goals
- Manage department budgets and supply procurement
- Assist in other departments and with other tasks as assigned
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in animal-related field (such as Zoology, Wildlife Biology, Animal Science) or equivalent experience
- Minimum of 8-10 years in zoo or wildlife management, including leadership roles
- Strong knowledge of ZAA accreditation standards, animal welfare practices, and regulatory compliance
- Experience managing diverse animal collections
- Must be 18 years of age or older and pass pre-employment screening
- Must possess a valid driver’s license with clean driving record and reliable transportation
- Physical ability to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions and perform labor-intensive tasks, including lifting and moving up to 70 pounds
- Must provide a negative TB test and have a recent tetanus shot
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a positive and collaborative attitude
- Proficiency in record-keeping software and basic office tools
- Willingness to learn new skills and adapt to the park’s unique needs
- Flexible schedule, must work most weekends and holidays
What We Offer:
- Opportunities for further education and development
- Team member appreciation days and parties
- Free admission for yourself and family & friends on your days off
- In-Park discounts on retail and select animal encounters
- Paid time off with increasing accrual rates over tenure
- Subsidized health insurance
African Safari Wildlife Park is a Drug-Free Workplace and an Equal Opportunity Employer. Must be at least 14 years old with a valid work permit; some positions requiring individuals 18+ with a valid driver’s license are noted below.
ALL POSITIONS: Must have excellent communication skills, be able to pass pre-employment screening, must have valid Driver’s License OR State ID OR School ID, and be on your feet for several hours. The Essential Functions of the job are to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above head, pull, bend, climb stairs and ladders, and carry up to 50 lbs. Must be available to work weekends, and holidays.
Park Operations Staff
Operation Staff positions include but are not limited to:
Gift Shop
Ticket Booth
Front Gate or Back Gate Attendant
Café Food Service & Ice Cream**
Animal Experience Attendant**
Description
- Greets all Guests with a smile and offer assistance; via in person or over the phone.
- Accepting tickets from Guests, scanning prepaid admission tickets, using POS system to input admissions, accepting coupons and payment, and distributing admission receipts to Guests.
- Communicates clearly and in a friendly manner.
- Handles cash or card transactions, provides merchandise to Guest and communicates appreciation for their business.
- Responsible for following asset protection policies and requirements.
- Tasks include but not limited to: making and distributing feed cups, enforcing a set of rules for the safety of the guests and staff, monitor the vehicles as they enter the Drive Thru and keep all stations free of trash and debris.
- Responsible for all checklists associated with the cashier positions.
- Responsible for keeping assigned areas clean, includes stocking merchandise and concessions as instructed by Supervisor.
- Works as a team player to help others complete their objectives as needed.
- Responsible for following all zoo sanitation standards.
- Handles Guest sales in a prompt, friendly, courteous manner using suggestive selling techniques
- Use radio to communicate to Management, Supervisors and or Rangers in Drive Thru with any questions or concerns.
Safari Café – Food Service and Ice Cream**
- Responsible for preparation of various food products according to prescribed recipes. Learns menu items, portions, and prices.
- Keeps a clean and orderly area including all kitchen equipment, food prep area, and guest areas (tables, chairs, serving lines, condiment stands, etc.)
- Some heavy lifting is involved (approx. 40-50 lbs.)
- Honesty and reliability is a must with knowledge of accurate cash handling. Use of suggestive selling techniques.
- Ability to follow instructions; and work in groups or as an individual during rush times.
- Must maintain a well-groomed & professional appearance at all times.
- Must follow ServSafe guidelines provided upon training to ensure food safety for all guests and staff.
Animal Experience Attendant (Zoo-It-All Station, Aviary Attendant, Tortoise Attendant)**
- Animal Experience Attendant positions will rotate with all Operation positions
- Responsible for the daily cleaning, operation, and Guest assistance at these experiences.
- Establish confidence to offer facts and answer guests questions during the experience and know detailed information about the animal in the experience you are stationed.
- Monitor the safety of both guests and animals during all experiences.
- Handling on the spot cash or card transactions.
- Portion lettuce for feedings, distribute budgie sticks and / or sell additional merchandise & concessions at your station.
- Keep service areas clean and presentable
- Must be comfortable with physically assisting children and adults onto a camel.
- Comfortable radioing Wildlife staff or Supervisors with any animal or guest questions/concerns.
Qualifications for all Operations positions (will vary based on individual positions):
- Must be able to communicate well, follow instructions, work well with money, and be patient, alert, efficient, and courteous at all times.
- Should have a cheerful, courteous manner with a natural smile and be mature, level-headed.
- Not easily flustered by large crowds.
- Must be able to read, comprehend, and speak the English language.
- Experience on a register is helpful, but not required.
- Applicant must not mind being confined to a cashier booth and working alone during their shift.
- Must be prepared to stand and walk alongside vehicles entering the Drive-Thru throughout the day.
- Must be comfortable using a radio to communicate with Management and other coworkers.
The following positions require you to be at least 18 years of age and/or possess a valid driver’s license. See Qualifications for more details based on individual positions:
Groundskeeper
- Performs manual labor as it related to the maintenance of building and grounds
- Responsible for cleanliness of all public Park areas and behind the scenes areas, including but not limited to mowing, weed eating, power washing, trash removal, window washing and restroom cleaning.
- Tasks will be assigned based on age, minors will be required to follow Ohio Law for task types.
- Qualifications
- Ability to follow both oral and written instructions.
- Ability to perform manual labor.
- Ability to work under adverse conditions including weather and heights.
- Valid driver’s license required for all employees over 18+ and a good driving record to be able to drive and operate a golf cart.
Maintenance/Landscaping/Buildings & Grounds
- Performs manual labor as it related to the repair and maintenance of building and grounds
- Landscaping of grounds
- Repair or modification of existing exhibits, and construction of new exhibits in accordance with the instructions provided by management.
- Qualifications
- Basic knowledge of construction principles and practices.
- Ability to follow both oral and written instructions.
- Ability to perform heavy manual labor.
- Ability to work under adverse conditions including weather and heights.
- Must have a valid driver’s license and a good driving record.
- Preferably, background in basic carpentry, masonry, and/or welding.
- Must be at least 18 years old with a valid driver’s license to operate a golf cart and handle power tools.
African Safari Wildlife Park is a drug-free workplace and equal opportunity employer.
All employees are expected to cross-train in multiple positions.
Seasonal Animal Experiences Staff or Internship
African Safari Wildlife Park, one of the top family destinations in the Shores & Islands Ohio region, is entering a period of significant growth and investment. Guided by our mission, we are dedicated to inspiring connections between people and wildlife while fostering an appreciation for the natural world.
We’re looking for talented individuals who are passionate about animals, wildlife conservation, and providing amazing guest experiences to embark on this exciting journey with us! Whether you’re an expert in animal care, a leader in guest services, or an advocate for conservation, there’s a place for you on our team.
African Safari is a seasonal facility open from March-November, with a peak season from May-September. An ideal candidate would be available during our peak summer season.
As a Seasonal Animal Experiences Staff, you’ll play a key role in creating unforgettable experiences for our guests by facilitating meaningful interactions with a variety of exotic and domestic animals, from the Giant Giraffe to the Tiny Tarantula. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a willingness to assist across various departments, maintain a positive attitude, and exhibit a passion for learning and growing in a dynamic environment. Efficiency, adaptability, reliability, and teamwork are key qualities for success in this role.
ALL POSITIONS: The Essential Functions of the job are to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above head, pull, bend, climb stairs and ladders, and carry up to 50 lbs.
- Education Program Handler:
- Provide proper daily care, feeding, and monitoring for ambassador animals, ensuring their physical and mental well-being
- Facilitate safe interactions between guests and animals
- Follow appropriate animal handling protocols to ensure safety of animals, staff, and guests
- Utilize Animal Care Software to maintain animal records and observations
- Previous animal handling experience preferred
- Education Program Presenter:
- Serve as an ambassador for wildlife conservation and education
- Lead interactive presentations, inspiring guests to connect with and care for the natural world
- Help facilitate safe interactions between guests and animals
- Assist Animal Handler in daily care of ambassador animals
- Previous presentation or theater experience preferred
- Related coursework in education, drama, or similar field preferred
- Drive-Thru Guest Relations/Ranger:
- Ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for guests navigating the park’s Drive-Thru Safari
- Educate guests by answering questions and sharing information about the animals and the Park
- Provide guests with feeding instructions and ensure all are following guidelines to maintain USDA standards and ensure animals getting proper diet
- Work alongside hoofstock on a golf cart while monitoring guest and animal interactions
- Keep Drive-Thru free of feed cups, debris, and animal waste
- Remain aware of animals’ dispositions, including daily observation of drive-thru animals and habitat, to ensure their well-being
- Animal Feeding Station Attendant:
- Facilitate safe animal feeding experiences
- Educate guests by answering questions and sharing information about the animals and the Park
- Provide guests with feeding instructions and ensure all are following guidelines to maintain USDA standards and ensure animals getting proper diet
- Keep animal habitat and surrounding area clean
- Animal Experiences Internship:
- Includes cross-training in all animal experiences positions
- Hands-on experience in various aspects of animal operations, including animal handling, educational programming, training, and husbandry
- Background with or formal education in animal-related field (such as Biology, Zoology, or Wildlife Biology)
- All positions will assist in other departments and with other tasks as assigned
Qualifications:
- Must be 18 years of age or older and pass pre-employment screening
- Must possess a valid driver’s license with clean driving record and reliable transportation
- Physical ability to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions and perform labor-intensive tasks, including lifting and moving up to 50 pounds
- Must have a recent tetanus shot
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a positive and collaborative attitude
- Ability to work efficiently under minimal supervision and manage time effectively
- Willingness to learn new skills and adapt to the park’s unique needs
- Flexible schedule, must work most weekends and holidays
Internship Program Requirements:
- Interns are expected to commit to a minimum of 12 weeks during peak season, with extensions encouraged. All candidates must commit to this schedule and be available to work a 40-hour work week, including weekends and holidays. Start and end dates may be flexible to accommodate travel or academic schedules.
- Interns will complete a project assigned by their supervisor.
- Internships are paid an hourly wage.
What We Offer:
- Opportunities for further education and development
- Team member appreciation days and parties
- Free admission for yourself and family & friends on your days off
- In-Park Discounts on retail and select animal encounters
African Safari Wildlife Park is a drug-free workplace and equal opportunity employer.
All employees are expected to cross-train in multiple positions.
Seasonal Animal Experiences Staff or Internship
African Safari Wildlife Park, one of the top family destinations in the Shores & Islands Ohio region, is entering a period of significant growth and investment. Guided by our mission, we are dedicated to inspiring connections between people and wildlife while fostering an appreciation for the natural world.
We’re looking for talented individuals who are passionate about animals, wildlife conservation, and providing amazing guest experiences to embark on this exciting journey with us! Whether you’re an expert in animal care, a leader in guest services, or an advocate for conservation, there’s a place for you on our team.
African Safari is a seasonal facility open from March-November, with a peak season from May-September. An ideal candidate would be available during our peak summer season.
As a Seasonal Zookeeper or Intern, you will have the opportunity to care for a variety of exotic and domestic animals, from the Giant Giraffe to the Tiny Tarantula. This position is primarily focused on animal welfare and husbandry. In addition to providing top-notch animal care, the ideal candidate will demonstrate a willingness to assist across various departments, maintain a positive attitude, and exhibit a passion for learning and growing in a dynamic environment. Efficiency, adaptability, and teamwork are key qualities for success in this role.
ALL POSITIONS: The Essential Functions of the job are to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above head, pull, bend, climb stairs and ladders, and carry up to 50 lbs.
Key Responsibilities:
- Animal Care & Welfare:
- Provide proper daily care, feeding, and monitoring for a variety of species, ensuring their physical and mental well-being
- Implement enrichment and assist in animal training sessions
- Assist Veterinarians with procedures or treatments when necessary
- Utilize Animal Care Software to maintain animal records and observations
- Maintenance:
- Assist with habitat maintenance and landscaping to ensure clean, safe, and engaging environments
- Clean/disinfect animal stalls, animal enclosures, keeper and common use space, and the public area around them
- Guest Education:
- Educate guests by answering questions and sharing information about the animals and the Park
- Work in animal-related guest service positions, such as supervising feeding areas, facilitating animal encounters, assisting with educational programs, or distributing feed, to enhance visitor experiences
- Assist in other departments and with other tasks as assigned
Qualifications:
- Background with or formal education in animal-related field (such as Biology, Zoology, or Wildlife Biology) highly preferred
- Must be 18 years of age or older and pass pre-employment screening
- Must possess a valid driver’s license with clean driving record and reliable transportation
- Physical ability to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions and perform labor-intensive tasks, including lifting and moving up to 70 pounds
- Must provide a negative TB test and have a recent tetanus shot upon start date
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a positive and collaborative attitude
- Ability to work efficiently under minimal supervision and manage time effectively
- Willingness to learn new skills and adapt to the park’s unique needs
- Flexible schedule, must work most weekends and holidays
Internship Program Requirements:
- Interns are expected to commit to a minimum of 12 weeks during peak season, with extensions encouraged. All candidates must commit to this schedule and be available to work a 40-hour work week, including weekends and holidays. Start and end dates may be flexible to accommodate travel or academic schedules
- Interns will complete a project assigned by their supervisor
- Internships are paid an hourly wage
What We Offer:
- Opportunities for further education and development
- Team member appreciation days and parties
- Free admission for yourself and family & friends on your days off
- In-Park Discounts on retail and select animal encounters
Why Work at African Safari Wildlife Park?
Flexible Scheduling
Whether you’re a student balancing work with school or a teacher looking for a fun summer gig, we’ll work with you to create a schedule that meets your unique needs.
Team Member Appreciation
Attend employee-exclusive events and parties throughout the summer season.
Grow Your Skills
Most positions don’t require any previous experience, so you may learn valuable skills like cash handling, public speaking or equipment operation that you’ll use throughout your career.
In-Park Discounts
Take 25% off at the Safari Café and Gift Shop on the days you work, plus 50% off select animal encounters with friends and family!
Free Admission
Visit the Park for free on your days off, plus get six free tickets to share with friends and family after two weeks on the job.
It's a Wild Place to Work!
Work alongside hundreds of amazing animals, including giraffe, zebras, bison, lemurs and kangaroos.
