Position: Daytime Security Guard – Weekends and Holidays
Status: Full Time FLSA Hourly Non-Exempt
Department: Safety & Security
Reports to: Safety Manager
POSITION OVERVIEW
Established in 1986, the East Coast Zoological Foundation (ECZF) is a nonprofit organization in Melbourne, Florida, best known for its flagship campus, Brevard Zoo. Brevard Zoo is well-known for its strong conservation ethic and unique attractions, such as kayaking through the Africa area, giraffe feeding, rhinoceros encounters, and various other animal experiences. It is also home to the Sea Turtle Healing Center for rehabilitation of wild marine turtles. Regularly voted one of the 10 best zoos in the nation in the USA TODAY 10 Best Readers’ Choice awards, Brevard Zoo welcomes more than 500,000 visitors a year.
Daytime security is tasked with maintaining the safety and security of Brevard Zoo during operating hours, including weekends and holidays. Key duties include conducting regular patrols of Zoo grounds, monitoring guest behavior & safety systems, reporting hazards, and professionally enforcing security policies to protect Zoo animals, guests, and staff. Security personnel must respond to incidents or emergencies, document events, and work with various departments and local law enforcement as required. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are crucial for ensuring a secure environment in this unique and dynamic setting.
QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION AND RELEVANT EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
REQUIRED:
· At least 21 years old
· Valid high school diploma or GED equivalent
· Class D security license or equivalent combination of training and/or experience
· Minimum 3 years of security experience or equivalent combination of training and experience
PREFERRED/DESIRED:
· Experience at an AZA institution, theme park, museum, or comparative equivalency
· Experience in de-escalation and/or crisis intervention
PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
· Providing security on Zoo grounds on weekends and holidays during operating hours
· Ensuring gates, buildings and exhibits are properly secured
· Communicating information to Safety Manager & overnight security as needed
· Monitoring guests, providing crowd control, and/or supporting staff during daytime events
· Observing Zoo animals for wellbeing concerns and reporting as necessary
· Perform security patrols of designated areas by foot and vehicle
· Monitoring and reporting conditions that are, or may create, safety hazards, or security threats to appropriate contacts as trained
· Responding to emergency situations and alerting emergency services, or Zoo staff, as trained
· Strong communication with guests, peers, and management across all departments
· Assisting with vendors, contractors, and employees as needed
· Compliance with USDA, OSHA, Florida Department of Health, and East Coast Zoological Foundation policies
· May be required to perform other related duties as assigned to ensure workload coverage
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
· Must regularly work weekends and holidays
· Proficiency in written and oral communication skills
· Ability to communicate efficiently by radio, telephone, and email
· Ability to perform under stress when confronted with emergencies
· Performing de-escalation and/or crisis intervention techniques as appropriate
· Ability to patrol on foot while walking long distances
· Ability to work extended hours outdoors with uneven surfaces
· Ability to drive and operate a golf cart
· Ability to maintain certification in CPR/AED/Basic First Aid
· Ability to work independently and under the direction of others
PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
(L) Light work
Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force as frequently as needed to move objects.
POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS/HAZARDS:
Working in an outdoor environment with uneven surfaces. Exposure to extreme heat and weather conditions including direct sun, humidity, rain, insects, seasonal cold, etc. Requires sitting, standing, walking, bending, stooping, kneeling, talking, hearing, and visual acuity frequently.
WORK SCHEDULE:
5-day work week with 8-hour shifts, including weekends and holidays.
TRAVEL:
Not required.
The above information in this job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with the Zoo’s policies on evaluation of personnel.
Brevard Zoo provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. Brevard Zoo complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
Brevard Zoo expressly prohibits any form of unlawful employee harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of Brevard Zoo’s employees to perform their expected job duties is not tolerated.
Brevard Zoo will not tolerate retaliation against employees who raise concerns or who file a claim of discrimination whether through external agencies or through Brevard Zoo’s internal procedures.
Brevard Zoo is committed to an inclusive environment where employees are encouraged to be their authentic selves. We value the diverse qualities, perspectives, and experiences of all individuals. Join us in sharing the joy of nature to help people and wildlife thrive.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $18.50 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Are you willing to undergo pre-employment drug testing in accordance with local laws and regulations?
- Are you willing to undergo a background check?
License/Certification:
- Class D Security license or equivalent (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Melbourne, FL 32940 (Required)
Work Location: In person
