Guest Services Worker - Summer Seasonal

Position SummaryThis is a seasonal position: Summer Season will start around May 12, 2026 and run through September 13, 2026. We are currently looking for applicants who can commit to working at least 20 hours (up to 40 during peak periods) and at least four days per week, with evening and weekend availability. Employees in seasonal positions may not work more than 1200 hours during the fiscal year.Hello, we’re Metro! Metro is dedicated to shaping a better future for the greater Portland region. The work the people of Metro do every day benefits the lives of the people who live here, today, and tomorrow.Are you someone with a positive attitude who enjoys providing outstanding customer service to guests from around the globe? Do you thrive in diverse environments, enjoy engaging with people, and take on a variety of responsibilities with enthusiasm? If so, the Oregon Zoo may be a perfect workplace for you. “Come be a part of our team!”The Oregon Zoo is seeking enthusiastic individuals to join the Guest Services team during our Summer season. As a Guest Service Worker, you’ll have the opportunity to engage in a variety of responsibilities that may include welcoming guests, selling and scanning tickets, operating the zoo carousel, assisting with zoo train operations, supporting special night including brew festivals and more.As a Guest Services Worker, you will play a key role in delivering exceptional customer service and supporting the daily operations of various guest-facing areas throughout the zoo. You will serve as a friendly, knowledgeable, and professional representative, ensuring each guest receives a warm welcome and outstanding service. We are looking for individuals who are enthusiastic, reliable, and committed to creating a welcoming environment for all zoo visitors. If you enjoy engaging with people and contributing to a meaningful guest experience, we invite you to apply and become part of our vibrant team.This position requires availability for a variety of shifts and will be working mostly daytime shifts with some special events dates running as late as 11:30pm. We are currently looking for applicants who can commit to working 20 hours and at least four days per week, with evening and weekend availability.As a Guest Services Worker You WillProvide outstanding customer service while interacting with guests and staff in a courteous, positive, and engaging manner.Serve at various stations across the zoo, including admissions, public and private events, special exhibits, and popular attractions such as the carousel and train.Communicate confidently and clearly, including making announcements and providing group instructions as needed.Maintain a high level of energy and enthusiasm to ensure all guests feel acknowledged, supported, and informed throughout their visit.Operate ticket scanning devices, point-of-sale (POS) cash registers, credit card terminals, and other related equipment with accuracy and efficiency.Sell and validate zoo tickets and services in a timely and professional manner.Welcome and orient school groups, tours, and large parties by providing clear expectations and logistical guidance.Answer guest inquiries regarding ticketing, zoo exhibits, events, amenities, and rules with professionalism and clarity.Assist with end-of-day procedures, including shutting down equipment, cleaning work areas, and reporting any operational needs to the lead or manager.Attributes For SuccessExceptional Customer Service: Demonstrates a proactive approach to guest satisfaction by anticipating needs, maintaining a courteous and professional demeanor, and creating a welcoming environment for all visitors.Quick Learner: Ability to learn and follow Guest Services procedures, policies, and operational protocols with efficiency and attention to detail.Dependability: Consistently reliable with a strong commitment to regular and punctual attendance.Point-of-Sale Proficiency: Proven ability to process transactions accurately, including operating point-of-sale (POS) systems, handling credit and debit transactions, and performing routine math calculations with precision.Team-Oriented Mindset: Builds and maintains positive working relationships, fosters a collaborative team atmosphere, and engages respectfully with colleagues and guests alike.Commitment to Inclusion: Values diverse perspectives and demonstrates an openness to learning from others; actively promotes an inclusive and respectful environment.Safety Awareness: Prioritizes safety by adhering to all organizational safety policies, procedures, and best practices.Adaptability and Sound Judgment: Demonstrates flexibility in a dynamic work environment, adjusts to shifting priorities with ease, and exercises sound judgment when working independently or as part of a team.Approximate Recruitment TimelineApplications close April 14, 2026.Interviews 28 Apr and 29 Apr 2026.Reference checks completed after interviews.Offers are made on the week of May 5, 2026.Orientation May 12, 2026.Position training commences May 12, 2026.There will be an additional all day required training session on May 21, 2026.DIVERSITY AND INCLUSIONAt Metro, we strive to cultivate diversity, advance equity, and practice inclusion in all of its work. This means attracting and empowering a workforce that is inclusive of a broad range of human qualities. Workplace diversity is both a moral imperative and a business strength, essential to providing quality support and services to our region. Metro’s goal is to hire, develop and retain highly skilled and talented individuals across all departments and programs who best reflect the diversity of our community.Learn more about Metro’s Diversity Action PlanTO QUALIFYWe will consider any combination of relevant work experience, volunteering, education, and transferable skills as qualifying unless an item or section is labeled required. Please be clear and specific in your application materials on how your background is relevant.Minimum QualificationsHigh school diploma, GED or sufficient education to demonstrate the ability to read instructions and to perform routine math calculations with accuracy; andOne year of experience providing customer service in a public setting; andOne year of paid experience processing transactions in a customer service setting (e.g., point-of-sale or ticketing systems); orWe will consider any combination of education and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties and responsibilities of the position.Shifts And ScheduleAs a member of the Guest Services staff, you'll need to be flexible with your availability, as shifts will include nights, weekends, and holidays as assigned. Your schedule will vary based on operational needs, weather conditions, and special events at the zoo.This is a seasonal position that will start on March 23, 2026 and conclude on September 13, 2026.Summer Season Staff Can Expect a Minimum Of 20 Hours Of Scheduled Shifts Per Week With Scheduled Events And Hours Of Operation Outlined Here2026 daytime operations shifts are typically 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. through May 23, 20269 a.m. – 6 p.m. through September Labor Day 20269:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. through October 31, 2026Special evening event shifts typically start at 4 and may go as late as 11 p.m. Evening dates (to be confirmed) include:June 3, July 1, August 5June 5 + 610 Fridays starting June 19Friday August 22 & Saturday August 23September 11 + 12Background Check: The candidate selected for the position will need to pass a criminal background check prior to being hired. Criminal convictions do not necessarily preclude employment and will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.If this statement is true for you, then you may be ineligible to apply:If I was terminated for cause during any of my employment with Metro, or resigned in lieu of termination, I understand I may be ineligible for rehire for a minimum of 3 years.Like To HaveYou do not need to have the following preferred qualifications/transferable skills to qualify. However, keep in mind we may consider some or all of the following when identifying the most qualified candidates. Your transferable skills are any skills you have gained through education, work experience (including the military) or life experience that are relevant for this position.Preference will be given to applicants with the greatest availability and customer service experience. Applicants who have evening and weekend availability.Proficiency in an additional language.SCREENING AND EVALUATIONThe Application Packet: The application packet consists of the following documents. Please ensure that you upload these documents in your online application. Make sure your application is complete, missing any part of these items could result in an incomplete application and will not be moved forward in the recruitment.A complete online applicationComplete answers to the supplemental questionsThe selection process: We expect to evaluate candidates for this recruitment as follows. The selection process is subject to change.Initial review of minimum qualificationsIn-depth evaluation of application materials to identify the most qualified candidatesConsideration of top candidates/interviewsReference check Background, driving records check for finalist candidateRepresentation And BenefitsThis seasonal position is eligible for overtime and is represented by the union LiUNA Local 483. It is classified as Guest Services Worker.Seasonal employees are not eligible for Metro benefits but may qualify for additional incentives—please refer to the union agreement for eligibility details.Classification descriptions are typically written broadly and do not include the specific responsibilities of the positions. These positions are classified as seasonal. Seasonal employees cannot work more than 1,200 hours per fiscal year.Questions?Recruiter: Christina RentasEmail: christina.rentas@oregonmetro.govAdditional InformationEqual employment opportunityAll qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, familial status, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability for which a reasonable accommodation can be made, or any other status protected by law.AccommodationMetro will gladly provide a reasonable accommodation to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing this application or participating in this recruitment process. Please contact the recruiter outlined in the job announcement in advance to request assistance.Veterans' preferenceUnder Oregon Law, qualified veterans may be eligible for veterans' preference when applying for Metro positions. If you are a veteran and would like to be considered for a veterans' preference for this job, please provide qualifying documents as instructed during the application process.Hybrid TeleworkPositions designated as “hybrid telework,” meaning you will have the option to work away from the office, although there may be times that coming into the office will be required. The designation of Hybrid Telework may be subject to change at a future time. All employees must reside in Oregon or Washington; Metro cannot support ongoing telework from other locations.Pay equity at MetroNo matter who you are or where you work at Metro, you deserve to be paid fairly for the work you do. Every worker must get equal pay for equal work regardless of your gender, race, age, or other protected characteristics. Metro has established processes and conducts routine pay equity reviews as part of the hiring process to ensure compliance with the 2017 Oregon Pay Equity Act.Online applicationsMetro accepts job applications online. If you need assistance or accommodation with your application, or access to a computer, please contact the recruiter outlined in the job announcement in advance to request assistance.How To ApplyFor tips on how to apply and more information on what the application process looks like, visit Metro’s “How to apply” page.Government JobsFor assistance with your account or to reset your password please visit GovernmentJobs "Help and Support" page.Metro Led by an elected council, this unique government gives all residents of greater Portland a voice in shaping the future and provides parks, venues, services, and tools at a regional scale. We find solutions for our area’s garbage and recycling that protect clean air and water; help plan land use and development to provide jobs and safe transportation; manage local venues that provide a connection to arts and culture and help keep the economy growing; protect 17,000 acres of parks and natural areas, and run the Oregon Zoo, to keep nature close to home.As part of the Metro family, Oregon Zoo helps make greater Portland a great place to call home. Metro brings people together to shape the future of our area and provides parks, venues, services, and tools at a regional scale.The Oregon Zoo and MetroThe Oregon Zoo inspires visitors to learn about protecting endangered species and restoring native habitats and is the state's most popular paid attraction. The zoo’s roughly 320 employees welcome more than 1.5 million visitors each year.As part of the Metro family, you play a vital role in serving the people of the greater Portland region.This is a variable hour position with no guarantee of hours. The position is eligible for these benefits:Paid sick leave Paid parental leave Full contribution to Oregon PERS retirement if eligible and qualified. No-cost TriMet Hop Pass Employee Assistance ProgramMetro also offers a variety of perks for all employees, including free admission to the Oregon Zoo (including ZooLights!), Oxbow and Blue Lake Regional Parks, membership discount at Lloyd Athletic Club, credit union eligibility and more. Employees also receive access to financial wellness and legal consultation services, as well as first-time home buying and ownership counseling.BenefitsLearn more about employee benefits.Some variable hour positions are represented by a union and have additional benefits.View union contracts here.01Are you 17 years of age or older?yesno02Are you willing to work weekends and evenings as needed?yesno03Are you willing and able to work in a variety of settings throughout the zoo (e.g., admissions, events, attractions), and floating between them as business requires?yesno04How comfortable are you interacting with a diverse community of guests, including children, families, and individuals from different cultural backgrounds and abilities? This sometimes involves projecting your voice to address large groups.Not at all comfortableSlightly comfortableModerately comfortableVery comfortableExtremely comfortable05How comfortable are you interacting with guests who may be dissatisfied, stressed, or upset, while maintaining a calm and professional demeanor?Not at all comfortableSlightly comfortableModerately comfortableVery comfortableExtremely comfortable06How comfortable are you staying engaged and active, maintaining a welcoming presence during slower periods (or when your role involves remaining in one location)?Not at all comfortableSlightly comfortableModerately comfortableVery comfortableExtremely comfortable07How comfortable are you in dynamic environments, learning new systems or procedures quickly and applying them on the job?Not at all comfortableSlightly comfortableModerately comfortableVery comfortableExtremely comfortable08How comfortable are you operating a point-of-sale (POS) system, using a scanning device, and processing credit transactions?Not at all comfortableSlightly comfortableModerately comfortableVery comfortableExtremely comfortable09How many years of paid experience do you have processing transactions in a customer service setting (e.g., point-of-sale or ticketing systems). This experience MUST be listed on your application.less than 1 year1-2 years of experience2-3 years of experience3-4 years of experience4-5 years of experience5+ years of experience10How much paid experience do you have providing direct customer service to the public? This experience MUST be listed on your application.less than 1 year1 to 2 years of experience2-3 years of experience3-4 years of experience4-5 years of experience5+ years of experience11Please let us know what days you are available to work.SundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday12Do you have a valid driver's license?yesno13What is the highest level of education you have completed?High school diploma or GEDAssociate degreeBachelor’s degreeMaster’s degree or higherNone of the above Required Question