Train Driver

SUMMARY

The Train Driver is responsible for providing safe, friendly, informational service while operating the Zoos train and/or other rides/amusements.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Provide excellent customer service at all times to guests and staff.
• Completes daily cleaning and basic maintenance.
• Walks train tracks daily before Zoo opening to check for hazards. Checks out train prior to Zoo opening to make sure there are no maintenance issues. Reports any problems that would lead to unsafe operations to Senior Operations Manager, Operations Supervisor, Maintenance Manager or Manager on Duty (MOD).
• Operates the train with no distractions. While in operation, observes riders, track, and ride to ensure safety measures.
• Prior to the Zoo opening, communicates to Guest Services Manager(s) that the train has been cleared for operations and are ready to open.
• Notifies the manager on duty (MOD) and front gate Guest Services staff of any ride closings or maintenance issues throughout the day.
• Acquires ride tickets from guests and/or checks wristbands. Records rider numbers daily.
• Assists riders on and off ride/attraction as needed, to include disabled/wheelchairs if applicable.
• Acknowledges guest questions regarding basic Zoo information and daily event schedules and answers appropriately. Seeks answer if unknown to operator.
• Attains a basic knowledge of membership packages/benefits for encouraging memberships.
• Monitors and responds to inappropriate or unsafe guest behavior. Determines severity of behavior and contacts appropriate management or security to implement emergency plan.
• Documents and maintains daily, weekly and monthly checklists for designated area including, but not limited to: operation of, maintenance of, and cleaning of ride/attraction.
• As an Ambassador of the Zoo, projects professionalism in behavior, speech, appearance, and radio communications at all times.
• Entertains guests during ride/attraction by following assigned scripts determined by the Senior Operations Manager.
• Other duties as assigned

SAFETY ANALYSIS

The Train Driver position is impacted by hazardous exposures common to retail operations as well as public safety in an outdoor environment. Some of the following exposures will occur daily:

• The proper use and understanding of cleaning agents
• Thorough understanding of guest safety protocols, particularly with young children.

Specific training and procedures will be provided, designed to maintain safety of people as the highest priority of the zoo followed by the safety of the animal collection.

The Train Driver is responsible for following safety policies and procedures for their areas and to make any recommendations to the Operations Manager or Operations Supervisor as necessary.

The use and understanding of a variety of personal safety equipment is mandatory.

The Train Driver, as with any staff member of the zoo, is required to be familiar with the Zoos overall safety policies as outlined in the employee handbook as well as being responsible for reporting any injury immediately to the first aid department.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee should expect:

• Use of hands, fingers, tools or controls.
• Frequently required to stand; walk; sit; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, bend, crawl, crouch and talk or hear.
• Routinely lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Exposure to wet surfaces.
• Depending on assignment, exposure to the elements can be expected.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

Education and work experience

• High School Degree or GED, College preferred.
• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Commercial Drivers License (CDL) license preferred

Skills and knowledge

• Must have proven customer service skills.
• Presentation skills and/or public speaking skills helpful.
• Ability to plan and organize work in an efficient and cost-effective manner.
• Ability to adhere to standard operating policies and procedures.
• Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills; high energy and enthusiasm for completion of tasks; team building skills; and the ability to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Ability to multi-task and coordinate with others to provide deliverables on an agreed upon deadline.
• Ability to convey information clearly and concisely.
• Strong organizational skills with strong attention to detail.

Desirable qualities

• Strong interest in advancing the conservation missions of zoos and aquariums.
• High self-motivation and a detail-oriented work ethic.
• Professional, positive, and enthusiastic demeanor.

Other requirements

• Must have a current valid drivers license with no prior traffic violations (within the last five years).
• Must be First aid/CPR certified, or willing to be certified.
• Must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19.

POSITION TYPE AND HOURS OF WORK

• Full time, Part time or Seasonal
• Weekdays and weekends required, occasional evening hours (during special events) and holidays.