Security Guard I

Position Title:  Security Guard

Department: Safety & Security

Supervisor: Safety & Security Manager, Environmental Health &Safety Director

Nashville Zoo Mission:

Nashville Zoo is dedicated to inspiring a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural world through conservation, innovation, and leadership. With a diverse collection of animals and a commitment to wildlife preservation, we provide engaging experiences for visitors of all ages.

Why Work with Us:

At the Nashville Zoo, we believe in taking care of our team just as well as we care for our animals. Full-time employees enjoy a robust benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and future:

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage – including medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you and your family healthy.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – confidential support services for mental, emotional, and financial well-being.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching – helping you build a secure future while you make a meaningful impact today.
• Generous paid time off and sick leave – because rest and recovery are vital.
• Exclusive zoo perks – enjoy discounts on park experiences, retail, and food services, plus complimentary membership benefits.
• A collaborative and inclusive culture – be part of a diverse team where your voice matters, your growth is nurtured, and collaboration thrives across all departments.
• AZA-accredited facility – Nashville Zoo is committed to top-tier animal care, ethics and global conservation efforts.

Position Description:

The Security Guard is responsible for maintaining the park in a safe and secure condition. The Security Guard will perform patrols throughout their work shift and address any Guest and/or Staff security concerns that may emerge. Security Guard is responsible for protecting zoo assets. Security Guard will be responsible for communication of Severe Weather responses and participate in all of the zoos emergency protocols. Security Guard is responsible for the coordination of parking guests when required. Security Guards work various scheduled shifts throughout each 24 hour period, seven days a week, including working weekends, holidays and after hour events as assigned.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Responsible for performing park wide security patrols throughout assigned shift.
• Responsible for identifying any incidents and reporting them to direct supervisor.
• Responsible for monitoring weather conditions and communicating status to zoo staff and guests when action is required.
• Responsible for ensuring that the zoos security systems are in working order.
• Responsible for coordinating staff efforts in efficiently parking guests when they arrive and assisting them when exiting.
• Responsible for maintaining a daily activity report and preparation of incident reports for any occurrences during the shift.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Skills:

• Ability to work with general public and children while representing the Nashville Zoo in a positive manner
• Ability to work with little or no supervision.
• Ability to communicate effectively and de-escalate volatile situations
• Ability to prepare accurate written daily incident reports and logs at end of each shift
• Ability to think effectively and act appropriately in the moment.
• Ability to represent the organization and maintain professionalism at all times.
• Ability to operate a variety of zoo owned vehicles.

Education/ Experience:

• Required to hold a current State of TN Guard Certification with Dallas endorsement.
• Minimum (2) year of experience working in the Security field
• Ability to obtain a valid Tennessee Driver's License and to operate a motor vehicle
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Physical Responsibilities:

• Working Conditions are primarily outside. Must be able to work outside year round in inclement weather such as extreme high/low temperatures, snow and rain conditions. 
• Stand, sit, or walk for an extended period of time or for an entire work shift. Applicants are required to have the ability to bend, stoop and extend oneself etc., as required for performing assigned tasks. 
• Move, lift, carry, push, pull, and place objects weighing less than or equal to 50 pounds without assistance.

Work Schedule:

Full-time position, averaging 40 hours per week.

Part-time position, averaging 16 hours per week

Flexibility: Position may require flexibility in working hours to accommodate special events, emergencies, or animal care needs.

Available shifts include weekdays, weekends, holidays and special events.

Benefits:

Nashville Zoo offers a comprehensive benefits package to full-time employees, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, Employee Assistance Programs, a 401(k) plan with company match, paid time off, sick leave, long-term disability coverage, park discounts, and membership benefits.

Pre-employment requirements:

Nashville Zoo is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and maintains a drug-free work environment. All employment is at-will.

• All candidates are required to successfully complete a criminal background check and drug screening prior to hire.
• Pre-employment and annual tuberculosis (TB) screenings are a condition of continued employment.