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Train & Carousel Volunteer

Overview

Don’t just join the fun, make it! Train/Carousel volunteers help make our Children’s Zoo what it is. Working as a team, our train/carousel crew operates the carousel and drives the train. This is a wonderful experience for anyone looking to make friends with a team as the volunteer. All train/carousel volunteers receive regular support from a supervisor throughout their shift.

Shift Times

10AM-1PM, 1PM-4PM

Time Commitment

x1/wk minimum commitment for those beginning in mid June through October; every other week minimum commitment for those volunteering the entire March through October season

Age Requirement

Must be 18 years of age or older
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Responsibilities

General Tasks:

  • Happily greet & welcome Zoo guests
  • Always be pleasant to guests; smiles go a long way!
  • Know the rules of the rides forward and backward; maintaining a focus on safety.
  • Assist with ride set up, cleanup and maintenance before, during or after shift
  • Communicate with Supervisor on duty as needed in emergency, in case of maintenance needs, etc
  • Maintain focus on Henry Vilas Zoo customer service standards

Train Engineer

  • Drive Train
  • Assist in Loading of Passengers
  • Communicate Required Safety Messages

Train Conductor

  • Greet Waiting Guests
  • Take Tickets
  • Help Load/Unload Train

Carousel Operator

  • Operate Carousel
  • Remain Within Reach of Emergency Shut-off Button During Ride Operation
  • Take Tickets
  • Greet Guests at Entrance and Exit of Ride

Qualifications

  • Generally able to switch between sitting and standing comfortably.* (Please talk to us if you need accommodations. This is certainly something we do with all our T/C volunteers.)
  • Train volunteers must be able to tolerate warm, sunny weather and cool weather. (train doesn’t operate in rainy weather)
  • Friendly & conscientious
  • Outgoing, patient & self-confident
  • Enjoy children and families
  • Enjoy working as part of a team

Training

General orientation (online), role-specific training (on grounds)

Benefits

Volunteer outside at the Zoo, meet new friends, help create lasting memories for Zoo guests, experience in operating amusement rides, volunteer t-shirt, volunteer nametag, recognition event(s)

Reports To

Henry Vilas Zoo Volunteer Department and Daily Supervisor