Interested in joining Milwaukee County? Milwaukee County is searching for authentic people who are out to change the game and bring their whole selves to work every day.
Milwaukee County oversees operations from our Airport, Behavioral Health, Child Support, Combined Court Operations, Sheriff's Department, Community Reintegration Center, Human Services, Parks, Public Safety, Public Works, Fleet Operations, Transportation, and at the Zoo. Our departments are also dedicated to our Seniors and those with Disabilities in Aging and Disability Services, and Veterans in Veterans Services. Our employees also remain committed to serving the cultural, human, recreational, and social needs of the entire community.
Milwaukee County offers a wide variety of interesting jobs for people who want to make a difference in our community. Milwaukee County provides a competitive benefit package and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. If disability related accommodations are needed, please contact 414-278-3936. For submitted application inquiries please contact
[email protected]. Please note: an online application must be submitted for consideration.
We are searching for Changemakers to come and join our team and discover our diverse and versatile community of independent spirits and unique talents, we are redefining the way you think about Milwaukee County!
Switchboard Zoo Worker (Seasonal)
Milwaukee County Zoo
Hourly Pay Range: $16.50 - $23.87
Closing Date: 06/11/2026 or upon receipt of the first 50 applications
Job Summary: Serves as the Zoo’s central communications hub—providing professional customer service via phone, computer, and radio (including emergency calls)—with proficiency in multi line phones, computer applications, and radio equipment; also processes payments/refunds and supports entry using cameras and electronic gate access controls.
Essential Responsibilities:
- Switchboard Operator: Operates an integrated communications system with primary responsibility for the switchboard console, managing the receipt, transmission, screening, and transfer of hundreds of phone calls each day. Coordinates and distributes daily communication messages to Zoo staff.
- Receptionist and Customer Service/Cash Handling: Provides guests with accurate information about Zoo products and services. Works to resolve guest concerns efficiently, courteously, and professionally to ensure a positive experience during their visit. Uses basic problem solving skills to determine the appropriate department or staff member to direct calls or customers to for assistance.
- Radio Communications: Monitors and responds to three radio channels, ensuring timely and accurate communication. Receives, prioritizes, and responds promptly to all radio transmissions. Relays instructions and information clearly and efficiently to radio users.
- Emergency Response Coordination: Coordinates all human and animal emergency calls with speed and accuracy. Works closely with the Manager On Duty (MOD) to dispatch the appropriate emergency personnel and Zoo staff to the scene. Manages, monitors, and documents each emergency in accordance with the Zoo’s established emergency procedures.
- Point of Sale System Knowledge and Abilities: Operates the Point of Sale (POS) station and manages transactions including refunds, gift card sales, admission tickets, and vending. Accurately logs all activities and prepares the daily cash handling report.
- Basic Operation Knowledge of Gates and Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV): Maintains a basic operational knowledge of the Zoo’s software systems, including Genetec for Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) operation and C Cure 9000 for gate access control.
Minimum Requirements:
- Authorized to work in the United States.
- Must have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED).
- At least one (1) year of experience in Customer service, dispatch, radio operator, logistics.
- Basic knowledge of all related computer and software applications, such as word processing and spreadsheets.
- Basic knowledge of Smartsheet and Point of Sale (POS) systems.
NOTE: This original application is open to permanent residents of the United States. Appointee must establish residency in the state of Wisconsin within six months of start date and maintain such residency during incumbency. In accordance with Section 11, Rule 3 of the Civil Service Rules a non-competitive examination will be held for this position. The non-competitive examination will consist of criteria deemed appropriate by the Director of Human Resources.
APPLICANTS MUST POSSESS MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AT TIME OF FILING APPLICATION
Milwaukee County is committed to fostering an equitable working environment, free from discrimination and harassment, on the basis of any characteristic protected by law. We prohibit any form of discrimination, harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, pregnancy related condition, national origin, age, disability, FMLA status, sexual orientation, military status, marital status, or any other category or status that is now or in the future protected by federal, state, and local law. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing, background checks and pre-employment physicals subject to job requirements. If special accommodations are needed, please contact 414-278-3936.
