Job Description
Who We Are: Philadelphia Zoo works to fulfill our mission as an animal care organization, as a resource to schools and families, and as an ark and advocate for endangered animals around the world. What makes the Zoo a unique place to work? Whether you are involved with caring for animals, educating our visitors or working in a behind-the-scenes position in administration, maintenance or garden services, all of our positions share our institutional mission, purpose, and core values.
Who We Are Looking For: The Public Safety Part-Time Dispatcher at the Philadelphia Zoo will have a range of responsibilities focused on fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all staff, visitors, and vendors at the while on-site. This is an hourly position, with a schedule designed to align with the Zoo's operational and safety needs. Additionally, the Public Safety Part-Time Dispatcher will comply with all Zoo policies, departmental regulations, and applicable state and local laws, ensuring consistency with both departmental and Zoo standards. The Security Dispatcher is responsible for monitoring, coordinating, and dispatching security personnel to ensure the safety and security of guests, staff, animals, and property at the Philadelphia Zoo. This position serves as the central communication hub for all security operations, maintaining constant awareness of on-site activities and responding promptly to incidents, alarms, and emergencies.
What You Will Do: Reasonable Accommodations Statement: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Essential Functions: - Assigned to the Security Operation Office (S.O.C) or Gate H, which is responsible for Zoo-wide functions related to dispatch and site access.
- Monitor security communication systems, including Relay System, telephones, CCTV, and alarm systems.
- Dispatch security officers to incidents, emergencies, and routine patrols as needed.
- Maintain accurate and detailed logs of all calls in Ally CAD System, incidents, and officer activities.
- Coordinate with local law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services when required.
- Monitor access control systems and ensure only authorized personnel enter restricted areas.
- Provide clear and professional communication to all staff and guests during incidents.
- Assist in implementing emergency response procedures and protocols.
- Create Emergency "Summons" during emergency situation
- Support the Security Supervisor in maintaining operational readiness and situational awareness.
- Conduct routine checks of communication and surveillance equipment to ensure functionality.
- Prepare and submit incident and activity reports in a timely manner.
- Other duties as assigned.
What This Role Requires: - High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree in criminal justice or related field preferred.
- Minimum of one year of experience in security dispatch, or emergency communications.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions under pressure
- Proficiency with radio communication systems, CCTV monitoring, and computer-based reporting tools.
- Knowledge of security and emergency response procedures.
- Must be able to work flexible hours, including weekends, holidays, and evenings.
- Valid driver's license and ability to pass a background check required.
Working Conditions, Physical, Medical & Additional Requirements: Must successfully complete drug test and tuberculosis test prior to assuming position; ability to lift 15lbs, may require combination of sitting, standing, walking. Successful completion of a post-offer (yearly)criminal and child abuse clearances, credit record check prior to assuming position. Must be able to utilize the following equipment, e.g., computer, telephone, mic, copier and printer. Must possess a valid driver's license. Must be able to work either day or night shift if needed. Must be able to work independently if required. Must be able to work in all types of weather. Must be able to work overtime voluntarily or when assigned.
EEO Statement: The Philadelphia Zoo is an equal opportunity employer, and that all qualified applicants will be considered without regard to protected characteristics like race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, or veteran status. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit and organizational needs.
Traits We Are Looking For: - High EQ
- Effective listener
- Respectful, fair and tactful
- Curious and continuous learned
- Collective under pressure
What We Can Offer You: - Competitive Pay - We recognize talent and we pay to keep it
- Medical, Dental, Vision -While you have our back on the grounds, we cover yours' with health insurance
- Annual Leave - We all need a break from time to time
- 401K - There will come a time, when you are ready to retire
- Family membership pass with complimentary tickets - (Warning: You will become a celebrity amongst your friends once they hear you work for America's 1st Zoo)
Job Tags
Hourly pay, Part time, Work at office, Local area, Flexible hours, Night shift, Day shift, Afternoon shift,