Part-Time Cashier

About the Role

Birmingham Zoo Inc. (BZI) is a nonprofit, Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited Zoo and regional tourist attraction serving the greater Birmingham community and beyond. We advance wildlife conservation through responsible animal care, education, and local and global conservation efforts in support of our mission, Inspiring Passion to Conserve the Natural World. The Cashier is responsible for providing efficient, accurate, and welcoming service to guests, including processing transactions and supporting front gate operations. This role contributes to a positive guest experience by maintaining cash handling accuracy, following established procedures, and assisting with daily operational needs.

All employees serve as ambassadors of the Zoo and are expected to act in a professional manner consistent with the Zoo’s mission and its core values of Passion, Excellence, Teamwork, Stewardship, and Inclusion. This expectation applies when interacting with the public or when reasonably perceived as representing the organization.

Responsibilities

• Provides front gate services, including greeting guests, answering questions, and processing transactions to support a welcoming and efficient guest experience.
• Applies cash handling and point-of-sale procedures, including processing payments, balancing transactions, and completing required documentation in accordance with established protocols.
• Maintains cleanliness, organization, and safety standards in assigned areas and collaborates with team members to support daily operations and guest needs.
• Adheres to all organizational policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Handbook and applicable departmental guidelines.
• Demonstrates professionalism, accountability, and adherence to organizational policies, safety procedures, and training requirements, serving as a model for staff.

This job description reflects the general nature of the work and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties. This position may be assigned additional duties reasonably related to the employee’s primary responsibilities and organizational needs, provided such duties are within the employee’s training, experience, and safety requirements and do not materially change the nature of the position.

Safety Analysis

This position involves exposure to hazards common to both office and operational Zoo environments, including regular work in outdoor areas.

• Specific training and procedures will be provided to maintain safety of people as the highest priority, followed by the safety of the animal collection.
• Use and understanding of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required based on assigned tasks and work locations.
• Employees are required to follow all Zoo safety policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Handbook and Emergency Procedure Manual and to promptly report injuries, incidents, or safety concerns through established reporting channels.

Physical Demands

• Ability to perform both desk-based tasks and active, operational duties within the Zoo environment.
• Ability to stand, walk, and move for extended periods across indoor and outdoor work areas.
• Ability to use hands, fingers, and tools or equipment required for assigned tasks.
• Ability to communicate effectively, including exchanging information with others.
• Ability to occasionally move, lift, or carry items up to 20 pounds, depending on assigned duties.
• Ability to work in varying environmental conditions, including exposure to weather, uneven terrain, and wet surfaces.

Qualifications

Birmingham Zoo Inc. recognizes that skills and knowledge may be gained through a combination of education, paid employment, volunteer service, and other relevant experiences. Candidates who meet most of the qualifications for a position are encouraged to apply.

Education and Work Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Approximately one year of experience in customer service is preferred; experience with cash handling and in retail, zoological institutions, tourism, or other attraction-based environments is a plus.

Skills, Knowledge, and Desired Qualities

• Demonstrates basic math and cash handling knowledge, including understanding of financial processes and accuracy in transactions.
• Communicates clearly and respectfully with guests and team members and collaborates effectively to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Demonstrates organization, attention to detail, and professionalism, maintains proficiency with standard computer applications, and demonstrates an interest in supporting conservation-focused and mission-driven work.

Other Requirements

• May be required to operate Zoo-owned vehicles (including golf carts), powered equipment, and/or ride or attraction systems. In such cases, must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving record in accordance with Zoo policy. A pre-employment Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) check will be conducted, and an annual MVR review is required.
• May be required to travel on occasion.

Schedule

Work schedules are based on operational needs and may include any combination of weekdays, weekends, evenings, holidays, and special events. Employees may be required to work during emergency situations or unusual operational circumstances.