Overview
This position will open for new volunteers in 2023! In the meantime, you can fill out a Volunteer Interest Form here. We’ll get you on our email list so you’ll be the first to know when the role becomes available for the season.
Train & Carousel Crew make wonderful experiences for our kids and families all throughout the season. As part of our 4-person volunteer crew, along with HVZ attending staff, you’ll be welcoming our families, acting as a conductor on a short train trek, and operating our unique conservation carousel.
This role is perfect for those who love working with kids. The best part of volunteering with the Train & Carousel Crew is getting to feel like you’re a grandparent (no matter your age!) to thousands of excited littles. For many of our kids and adults, the rides at HVZ are some of their fondest memories. Ring the giant cowbell to get the carousel started. Yell, “All ABOARD!” as you start up the train. And make memories of your own!
Part of the fun is feeling like a part of the team. As a Train & Carousel volunteer you’ll receive several online orientations as well as onsite training (Yes! You get to drive the train!). You’ll form connections with the three other members of your volunteer team, and will receive support from HVZ staff attendants throughout the season. Lunch & Learns with keepers and other zoo professionals will be available throughout the season, and all Train & Carousel volunteers will be invited to our annual Volunteer Appreciation Night.
Shift Times
Time Commitment
Age Requirement
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