Lead, Ride Operations - Full-time

Responsible for coordinating the daily operations of the Zoo’s rides and providing frontline leadership to operators. Assumes Ride Supervisor responsibilities in their absence. Ensures safe, efficient, and guest-focused daily ride operations. Weekends and some evenings required.

Primary Job Functions

Shift Leadership

• Assign and adjust daily ride operator posts to ensure adequate coverage and fair distribution of work among staff.
• Monitor radio communication throughout the day to support safe and efficient operations.
• Train new operators on ride procedures and guest service expectations.
• Report operational or staffing concerns to the Rides Supervisor.
• Cover supervisor responsibilities during days off, vacations, or absences.
• Assist as a second interviewer for ride operator candidates.
• Provide coaching or small corrections as needed; refer disciplinary matters to the Rides Supervisor.

Ride Operation Support

• Monitor safe operation of rides and ensure operators follow procedures.
• Perform daily safety inspections of rides before opening and verify completion of operational logs.
• Assist in identifying and reporting maintenance concerns.
• Support the Rides Supervisor with parts runs and in-depth maintenance as directed.
• Operate equipment such as the Bobcat when trained and authorized.
• Support event operations by coordinating with operators and assisting with setup as needed.
• Serve on-call for special events as assigned; may act as point of contact (PoC).

Customer Service

• Serve as the first point of contact for guest service concerns during shifts.
• Provide customer service to the zoo defined customers – collections, conservation, contractors, co-workers, donors, students, professional colleagues, vendors, visitors & volunteers.
• Train and assist volunteers and interns.
• Foster and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, supervisors, customers, and team participants.
• Maintain a pleasant demeanor and positive attitude while working under any conditions.

Secondary Job Functions

• Use time efficiently to complete assigned tasks.
• Actively seek ways to streamline processes and remain open to new ideas and approaches
• Participate in a variety of meetings and professional development activities to gather and convey information and enhance performance.
• Safely and efficiently use equipment while following zoo policies and procedures
• Represent the Zoo and/or Sedgwick County at various offsite events such as regional, national, and international conferences, meetings, community events, outreach programs, etc.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• 21+ years in age.
• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Valid US driver’s license without restrictions.
• Experience providing customer service in a sales or guest-focused environment.
• Must be available to work evenings and weekends.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with attraction ride operations.
• Experience working with boat engines.
• 2 years of vehicle, motor, or general maintenance experience.
• Event preparation experience.

Working Environment/Conditions

The employee is subject to activities that occur in both inside and outside environmental conditions. The employee is subject to any potential hazards of working in a zoo. The employee is subject to potential hazards of working with and near dangerous animals and may be exposed to zoonotic diseases. Work involves exposure to moving mechanical parts, vibration, loud noise, fumes, odors, dust, and varying weather conditions. Employee must be able to work a schedule that involves working weekends, holidays, or after regular work shifts. Work may require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hearing protection, gloves, or safety glasses.

Physical requirements

Physical ability to lift objects up to 50 lbs. Repetitive bending and reaching as needed daily. Ability to sit, stand, climb, or walk for extended periods within indoor and outdoor environments. The employee is required to have visual acuity to perform activities such as operating machines and ride equipment. Must have sufficient manual dexterity to handle tools and equipment used in ride maintenance and repairs. Must be able to climb ladders, enter confined spaces, and work at varying heights as needed. Hearing ability sufficient to detect mechanical irregularities and respond to safety cues in a noisy environment.

Direct reports

1 full-time employee

10-20 part-time employees.