Do you enjoy being behind the wheel and providing exceptional service? The Santa Barbara Zoo is seeking a Transportation Shuttle Driver to safely and courteously transport staff, volunteers, and guests while helping create a welcoming and seamless arrival experience. Join our team and support conservation and education in a role that drives connection and impact!
Requirement: You must have a valid California Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with a “P” (passenger) endorsement, with a clean DMV record
Position Status: Part-Time, Seasonal, Hourly, Non-Exempt Compensation: $28.00 - $32.00 per hour Schedule: 4-6 openings: Seasonal position June 7-September 2, 2025, with a potential extension based on business need.
SHIFTS:
Monday – Sunday
Shift 1: 7:30 AM – 1:00 PM – 5 days a week
Shift 2: 12:30 PM – 6:00 PM – 5 days a week
Evenings for Special Events, based on business need
You must also complete the Zoo's Official Employment Application on the next page in order to be considered for the position
SUMMARY:
Under the general direction of the Director of Events & Guest Services & Events & Guest Services Manager, the Transportation Shuttle Driver is responsible for the safe, courteous, and timely transportation of staff and volunteers to and from the Santa Barbara Zoo. This role plays a vital part in supporting our team and providing exceptional customer service while adhering to safety standards and local laws. The Shuttle Driver will perform routine safety checks of the vehicle at the beginning of each shift, ensuring timely arrivals and departures, and maintaining a reliable and courteous transportation service.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
Perform routine pre-shift inspections of vehicles at the start of each shift, report maintenance or safety issues immediately to the Director of Events & Guest Services & Guest Services & Events Manager
Operate vehicle and transport staff and guests safely and efficiently via a fixed route with scheduled pick-up and drop-off locations for passengers
Assist passengers as needed
Ensure all passengers follow safety protocols, including seat belt use.
Keep accurate records of trip logs, mileage, and fuel use
Operate vehicle safely in compliance with all traffic laws and California motor vehicle laws
Record number of passengers and complete daily shift reporting as required
Maintain a clean, orderly, and safe shuttle at all times
Communicate professionally at all times
Provide excellent customer service with a positive and professional demeanor
Arrives on time for scheduled shift, professionally dressed and ready to begin work
Respond calmly and appropriately to emergencies or incidents on the route
SECONDARY DUTIES:
Guest Relations:
Greets every guest with a smile
Thanks guests for supporting/visiting the Zoo
Ensures the Zoo’s presentation standards for cleanliness and maintenance are met by keeping work areas clean, picking up trash, and reporting unsafe or unsightly conditions
Maintains a clean, neat appearance and adheres to the Zoo’s uniform dress code
Takes responsibility to stay informed about happenings at the Zoo, such as reading employee communications and attending Zoo meetings
Reflects the qualities outlined in the Guest Relations Statement and the Employee Pledge
Other miscellaneous duties as required
POSITION CRITERIA:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements and environmental characteristics described below are representative of the knowledge, skill, ability, and working and physical elements required of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Requirements:
Valid California Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with a “P” (passenger) endorsement, with a clean DMV record
Education & Experience:
At least 18 years of age
5 years of driving experience
Some prior driving experience, preferably driving passengers in shuttle, delivery, or customer service-related roles.
Customer service experience preferred
Ability to clear a post-offer, pre-employment background check
Job offer is contingent on a candidate receiving approval by the Zoo insurance carrier (DMV record review)
CPR/First Aid Certification is a plus
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:
Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, and our guests
Ability to maintain a diligent, friendly, and professional demeanor
Attention to details
Team oriented
Effective oral communication skills
Ability to effectively problem solve
Ability to follow oral and written direction
Ability to exercise safe work habits
Ability to simultaneously assist and interact with guests, while overseeing event
Must be enthusiastic, outgoing and personable
Punctual and reliable, with strong time management skills
Physical Demands & Work Environment:
Exposure to varying weather conditions
Primarily operates from within a vehicle, with occasional time spent outdoors
Ability to climb stairs, stand, walk, and to sit and drive for extended periods
Involves walking out-of-doors in all weather conditions (climate in Santa Barbara is mild)
Supportive and open employment culture
Regularly lifts and carries objects weighing up to 20 lbs.
Tools Used:
Hand tools
Electric cart
Two-way radio
Flashlights
Office Equipment
BENEFITS & PERKS:
Great team, beautiful grounds, amazing animal collection, sunshine & ocean view almost year-round!
Free parking, free guest passes, unlimited free tea/coffee every morning, 20% discounts on food services and retail purchases
Access to the Collabornation learning platform, professional development, and lunch & learn opportunities
You must also complete the Zoo's Official Employment Application on the next page in order to be considered for the position
Please make sure to check your spam folder if you do not see an email response from the Zoo.
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This job description is representative of the expectations of the position described. Additional duties, reporting relationships, and/or position criteria may be assigned as deemed necessary by the Chief Executive Officer or authorized representative. No changes to this job description shall be made without written permission by the Chief Executive Officer or an authorized representative.
The Zoo reserves the right to revise this job description at any time. The job description does not constitute a contract for employment, and does not guarantee employment for any specified period of time. The job description does not in any way alter the at-will employment relationship.
At this time, the Zoo does not sponsor employment or internship visas.