Marketing Events - Operations Assistant (Seasonal)

This is a seasonal non-union hourly position, grade S008 with a pay rate of $18.60 per hour. For our Benefits Summary Information, follow this link to our Benefits Table or copy and paste the following in your internet browser www.brookfieldzoo.org/custom.czs/files/06/06337b2c-b3db-45a2-8eb2-f8362486bd0e.pdf (please refer to the non-union, seasonal employee section) and/or refer to the benefit details provided below after the job description information.

This seasonal position requires the incumbent to work events inside and outside of the Zoo during a variety of hours. Due to the nature of these events, the job requires weekend work, including Friday through Sunday evenings. Reliable attendance is critical. Hours will primarily be focused on Boo! at the Zoo, with employees required to work 4 out of the 8 event days. Hours for other events will depend on the needs of the Zoo and may vary throughout the year.

This position contributes to the success Brookfield Zoo Chicago ("BZC") by creating and providing an extraordinary guest experience, driving attendance through supporting engaging and impactful onsite, special events, experiences, and promotions. and helping to grow and diversify the Zoo's audience base.

PRIMARY JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

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

1. *Support Marketing's onsite public events. This includes set up, transportation and take down of supplies and equipment that pertain to each event. Events range from Boo! at the Zoo to 21+ events and beyond.
2. *Assist in the execution of all event-day activities for Marketing special events, including but not limited to: following event timelines and policies; supporting pre-event setup and managing day-of-event logistics; helping ensure the smooth operation of the event by providing on-the-ground support and coordination. This includes assisting with event setup and teardown, handling signage, decor, and equipment, and transporting and setting up supplies across various outdoor locations.
3. *Welcome and assist guests during events, serving as a primary point of contact for participants, staff, and vendors, while ensuring a clean and branded presence throughout.
4. *Dress in costume and be animated as a Zoo character, while maintaining costume image. Greet Zoo guests and pose for pictures upon request.
5. *Monitor event flow, troubleshoot issues in real time, and collaborate with staff, volunteers, and vendors to ensure seamless event execution.
6. *Distribute event materials (e.g., wristbands, programs, or giveaways) and assist with cleanup, packing materials, and restoring event areas.
7. *Assist animal care teams during live demonstrations by managing crowd flow and ensuring safe viewing areas.
8. Other related duties as assigned.

*Denotes Essential Job Function(s)

POSITION REQUIREMENTS AND SPECIFICATIONS:

• Excellent customer service skills required.
• Strong verbal communication skills required.
• Must be able to work in a team and be flexible.
• Must be animated and outgoing.
• Strong organizational and project management skills required.
• Reliable attendance required.
• Must work at least 50% of scheduled events.
• Ability to interact with public and maintain a positive image at all times required.
• Cultural competency; experience and/or ability to work and interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural audience.
• A valid driver's license is required on date of hire. If an Illinois resident, must possess a valid Illinois driver's license at the time of hire or must obtain one within 90 days of hire. A valid out-of-state driver's license is required at time of hire if the employee is an out-of-state resident.

DESIRABLE/PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or educational equivalent (e.g., GED.) preferred.
• A desire to work in events, marketing and theater.
• Multilingual ability, Spanish fluency a plus.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: This position description summarizes the primary duties and functions of this position but should not be considered a complete listing of every duty the incumbent may ever be called upon to perform. This seasonal position requires the incumbent to work events inside and outside of the Zoo during a variety of hours. Due to the nature of these events, the job requires weekend work, including Friday through Sunday evenings. Reliable attendance is critical. Hours will primarily be focused on Boo! at the Zoo, with employees required to work 4 out of the 8 event days. Hours for other events will depend on the needs of the Zoo and may vary throughout the year. Must be comfortable with long periods standing, being outside, and dealing with varying weather conditions. Incumbent is expected to effectively integrate and coordinate work with a variety of other departments. Must be comfortable working in an environment that is mission and values driven. Incumbent must be self-motivated, highly professional, tactful, a problem solver, and represent the organization in a professional manner. Must have strong interpersonal skills with a warm, amiable personality. Ability to build rapport and interact effectively with others, including but not limited to internal staff, vendors, suppliers, and media. Must be passionate about their work and have a commitment to excellence. Because BZC is an organization that runs at a very fast pace with multiple, rapidly changing priorities, the incumbent must be flexible and adaptable and comfortable working in a dynamic organization. The required uniform for seasonal Marketing Events Operations Assistants includes khaki, blue, or black professional pants, provided by the employee, and a Brookfield Zoo Chicago issued uniform shirt. Additional uniform shirts and approved apparel are available for purchase, if desired.

OCCUPATIONAL REQUIREMENTS: See Occupational Requirements Form.

000400/070825

Seasonal Employees

Mental Health: Support, counseling, and resources for life issues at no cost to you. Eligible employees and their immediate family have access to Perspectives, a dynamic Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) which provides 24/7, confidential care and resources to address work and life stressors.

Retirement Savings: A 401(k) savings plan is available for all employees. Choose either pre-tax and/or Roth after-tax contributions. First of the quarter following one year of service, eligible employees receive matching contributions of 50% of the first 6% you contribute.

Other Benefits & Perks for All Employees (unless otherwise noted)