EMPLOYMENT

If you love animals and enjoy working with people, come join our team at the Oakland Zoo!

See our Employment Listings.

If offered employment at the Zoo, you must be able to present proof of citizenship or legal right to work in the United States.

Important! Applications and resumes are only accepted for current active job openings listed on the Employment Opportunities page.

In order to be considered for a position, please download, print, and complete the Oakland Zoo Employment Application here.

Please submit your resume and/or Zoo application and cover letter with and overview of your background and skills via email to hr@oaklandzoo.org, fax, or regular mail.

The busiest recruitment period occurs a month before the spring and summer school breaks.

The Oakland Zoo can be contacted through any of the following methods:

Address:
Oakland Zoo
P.O. Box 5238
9777 Golf Links Road
Oakland, CA 94605

Email: hr@oaklandzoo.org
Phone: (510) 632-9525
Fax: (510) 746-7175

On Call Education Specialists

The Oakland Zoo is seeking several flexible, highly motivated, organized and personable individuals to serve as On-Call Education Specialists, responsible for implementing Oakland Zoo programs, such as ZooMobile, ZooSchool, onsite birthday parties, scout badge workshops and optional overnight zoo events. Responsibilities include learning curriculum for age-appropriate Oakland Zoo Education Programs, allowing sufficient time to gather materials and prepare for programs (setting up room, packing up animals, driving to destination, etc.) and cleaning up classroom / Zoomobile / etc. after teaching program, and replenishing supplies as needed. The Education Specialists will enforce all zoo rules and regulations (including class size limits) follow animal handling protocols and maintain current Animal Handling certification. Also assist with special events and staff-directed projects as needed. Flexibility in scheduling a must. The position requires an individual who thoroughly enjoys working in a setting with heavy public contact (kids & adults). Compensation: $11-$13 per hour; $150-$200 per night for overnights.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

A bachelor’s degree in education or biological sciences from an accredited college or university is preferred Knowledge of education methods and materials appropriate for a wide range of audiences Ability to handle and present program animals in an educational format Excellent oral (including public speaking skills) and written communication skills; outstanding administrative and organizational skills Must be able to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, zoo visitors, and the general public Strong computer skills preferred Ability to display good judgment, problem solve, and exercise tact and diplomacy at all times Ability to organize tasks and time to ensure timely completion of all projects Ability to actively promote educational programs through the development of positive working relationships internal and external to the zoo, successfully sort multiple priorities, maintain a sense of perspective and humor while working under pressure, and give great attention to detail and accuracy Ability to work regular weekend, evening and holiday hours. Knowledge of animals and current conservation issues desirable.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

Please send a letter of interest and resume to:
Oakland Zoo
Education Department – Education & Conservation Director
9777 Golf Links Road
Oakland, CA 94605
Or email cover letter and resume only to randi@oaklandzoo.org
Please, no phone calls.

Gift Shop Cashiers and Food Service Workers (part-time)

The Oakland Zoo is currently looking to hire part-time Gift Shop Cashiers and Food Service Workers. We are hiring mainly for weekends (7-8 hours per day), but there is some flexibilty with scheduling and additional hours may be available. Additionally, these positions may be extended into regular, full-time positions during the summer season. These positions currently pay $8.00 - 8.50 per hour, depending on experience.

REQUIREMENTS

For this position, customer service experience is a must, as is flexibility with scheduling and a friendly, can-do attitude. A background in hospitality is a big plus as well! Applicants must be at least 16 years or older to work at the Zoo and be authorized to work in the United States. This position requires weekend work and may also include holidays and evening hours.

TO APPLY

You may apply in 3 ways:

• 1) email hr@oaklandzoo.org (and be sure to use "Food Service" and/or "Cashiers" as the subject line) - (this is the Zoo's preferred method of application)
• 2) fax your resume to (510) 746-7175 (attn: HR)
• 3) complete an application in person at the Oakland Zoo's HR Office (located east of the Zoo's main entrance).

The Oakland Zoo is an EEO employer and does not discriminate. PLEASE, NO PHONE CALLS!! Only candidates who are selected for interview will be called back or emailed, so we ask that you do not call to inquire about the status of your application.

Janitorial Worker (full-time)

The Oakland Zoo is currently looking a full-time Janitor. The Janitor is responsible for general office maintenance, including trash removal, dusting, cleaning and re-stocking supplies in restrooms and breakrooms, sweeping and mopping floors, vacuuming, window washing, buffing floors, stripping and waxing floors, carpet cleaning, and other duties are assigned. You are required to have a clean driving record as operating Zoo vehicles may be involved. Maintaining supply and equipment inventory and a safe working environment are also requirements of this position. Compensation for this position is $9.50 - 11.00 per hour (depending on experience), and offers benefits after 90 days of full-time employment.

REQUIREMENTS

One of more years of janitorial experience is required for this position. Knowledge of carpet/floor care and general maintenance principles are a huge plus. This is a full-time position that requires weekend work, and may also include holidays and evening hours. Applicants must be 16 years of age or older and authorized to work in the United States.

TO APPLY

You may apply in 3 ways:

• 1) email hr@oaklandzoo.org with your resume (and cover letter, if applicable)
• 2) fax your resume to (510) 746-7175 (attn: HR)
• 3) complete an application in person at the Oakland Zoo's HR Office (located east of the Zoo's main entrance).

The Oakland Zoo is an EEO employer and does not discriminate. PLEASE, NO PHONE CALLS!! Only candidates who are selected for interview will be called back or emailed, so we ask that you do not call to inquire about the status of your application.

Groundskeeper / Horticulturist (full-time)

The Oakland Zoo is currently looking a full-time Groundskeeper / Horticulturist. Compensation for this position is $10.00 - 11.00 per hour, depending on experience, and offers benefits after 90 days of full-time employment.

PRIMARY DUTIES

Maintain plants, shrubs, trees, lawns, parking areas, and public pathways; weed abatement and trash pick-up; set up facilities for special events; prepare and set up for parties/meetings in rental facilities; operate small power tools; follow simple instructions and perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Not limited to, but include:

• Over 18 years of age.
• California Class C Drivers License & clear driving record (ability to obtain authorization from Zoo Insurance Carrier).
• Clear Police Record.
• Able to lift 50 lbs.
• Available to work weekends and holidays (typical hours for this position are 7:30am - 4pm).
• Must often work independently and with little supervision.

QUALIFICATIONS NEEDED:

• High school diploma, GED or equivalent, or greater
• Some experience in grounds and/or maintenance is preferred

HOW TO APPLY

• 1) Email hr@oaklandzoo.org with your resume (and cover letter, if applicable)
• 2) fax your resume to (510) 746-7175 (attn: HR)
• 3) complete an application in person at the Oakland Zoo's HR Office (located east of the Zoo's main entrance).

Applicants must be 16 years of age or older and authorized to work in the United States. The Oakland Zoo is an EEO employer and does not discriminate. PLEASE, NO PHONE CALLS!! Only candidates who are selected for interview will be called back or emailed, so we ask that you do not call to inquire about the status of your application.

Maintenance Technician (full-time)

The Oakland Zoo is currently looking a full-time Maintenance Tech. Compensation for this position is $13.00 - 17.00 per hour, depending on experience, and offers benefits after 90 days of full-time employment.

PRIMARY DUTIES

Performs routine, intermediate and some advanced construction, maintenance and repair of Zoo structures, vehicles, equipment, and irrigation; demonstrates superior customer service, both internal (i.e. co-workers) and external (vendors, visitors, customers, etc) and performs other related duties as required and assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Not limited to, but include:

• Possession of skill in the safe use of tools and equipment associated with mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and welding trades.
• Basic knowledge of general construction practices
• Excellent judgment, ability to follow detailed instructions, and leadership skills are necessary to complete projects/assignments and oversee Maintenance Assistants as needed.
• Must often work independently and with little supervision.
• Over 18 years of age.
• California Class C Drivers License & clear driving record (ability to obtain authorization from Zoo Insurance Carrier).
• Clear Police Record
• Able to lift 50 lbs.
• Available to work weekends and holidays.
• Minimum of 2 years maintenance experience
• High school diploma, GED or equivalent, or greater

HOW TO APPLY

• 1) Email hr@oaklandzoo.org with your resume (and cover letter, if applicable)
• 2) fax your resume to (510) 746-7175 (attn: HR)
• 3) complete an application in person at the Oakland Zoo's HR Office (located east of the Zoo's main entrance).

Applicants must be 16 years of age or older and authorized to work in the United States. The Oakland Zoo is an EEO employer