Performing Arts Lead - Part time

Santa Barbara Zoo•Santa Barbara, CA

19h•$18 - $18•Onsite

About The Position

If you thrive on helping customers, love solving problems, and have some supervisory experience, we may have the perfect opportunity for you right here in beautiful Santa Barbara. Join a fun, fast‑paced, highly interactive work environment where you can do what you love while contributing to our mission. If you’re an avid storyteller who enjoys performing and bringing characters to life, this is an opportunity you won’t want to miss. Step into a role where your creativity, energy, and personality truly shine. The Santa Barbara Zoo is seeking a part-time Performing Arts Lead to join our Performing Arts Department. Position Status: Part Time, Regular, Hourly, Non-Exempt Schedule: Up to 25 hours per week, including weekdays, holidays, weekends Compensation: $17.90 per hour You must also complete the Zoo's Official Employment Application on the next page in order to be considered for the position SUMMARY Under the general direction of the Director of Events & Guest Services, Events Manager, and the Performing Arts Supervisor, the Performing Arts Lead supports the day-to-day operations of the Zoo's performing arts team. This individual serves in a leadership role by coaching fellow performers, maintaining quality control, and ensuring the seamless delivery of performances aligned with the Zoo's conservation messaging and educational goals. This position requires creativity, professionalism, leadership, and a strong commitment to delivering memorable, engaging, and educational experiences for our guests.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent preferred
Prior experience in a live performance, theater, or arts education required
Prior paid supervisory experience preferred
Willing and able to obtain a First Aid, CPR/AED certification
Capacity to develop friendly and productive relationships at work with a focus on collaboration, including: Effective oral and written communication skills Ability to supervise others in a friendly and effective manner Ability to handle conflict effectively and constructively Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, and our guests
Professional skills including: Excellent time management skills (must be prompt and on time) Ability to work successfully in a shared workspace, with shared equipment and constant interruptions
Working knowledge of and ability to use effectively our scheduling software
Excellent customer service including: Excellent conflict management skills Ability to have a positive and upbeat attitude Ability to think quickly and in a constructive manner under pressure Ability to maintain a professional appearance and attitude at all times, as a representative of the Zoo
Ability to exercise safe work habits
Attention to detail, with a focus on safety
Ability to handle emergencies in a calm and professional manner
Ability to work a flexible schedule that will include some weekends, holidays, seasonal hours, and scheduled events as needed
Must be able to access all areas of the facility
Must be able to climb stairs and stand/walk for up to two continuous hours.
Ability to push, pull, lift, and grab
Ability to bend, twist and reach
Must be able to stand throughout the entire shift
Ability to lift 15-30 pounds occasionally, in the course of normal duties
Involves working out-of-doors in all weather conditions
Ability to drive cart safely
Ability to work in a busy shared, open-space work environment
Ability to participate in Emergency responses

Nice To Haves

Ability to converse in Spanish language is a plus

Responsibilities

Daily Operations Functions as Stage Manager/Audio Technician when assigned, ensuring performances run on schedule, and all cast members, cues, and technical elements are coordinated effectively
Oversees and maintains the standard of expectations for daily operations across all Performing Arts locations and roles (Stage, Immersive Spaces, roaming characters, etc.), ensuring consistent quality performances and immersive guest experiences
Ensures proper care, maintenance, and organization of performance assets, including costumes, puppets, props, and immersive materials
Monitors email, responding to inquiries as appropriate, and collaborating with other departments and the Performing Arts Supervisor to ensure timely communication
Assists Performing Arts Supervisors with: Script writing and creative content development Interviewing candidates as needed
Assists in the scheduling, training, and coordination of Show Cast members
Oversees shift start/end times, and meal breaks
Provides relief coverage to ensure required on-the-clock rest breaks
Provides training and mentorship for new staff, supporting onboarding, skill development, and confidence in performance roles
Provides ongoing modeling of performance and guest engagement skills, both onstage and within immersive areas to reinforce best practices
Maintains inventory of guest and staff materials across Performing Arts locations, ensuring supplies are stocked and organized
Monitors adherence to dress code and guest interaction standards
Ensures effective communication of marketing and program information to guests
Reinforces animal and guest safety procedures and protocols
Participates in regular performance assessments
Provide coaching and mentorship to enhance cast performance and guest service
Tracks and reports: Daily performance notes and attendance Performance concerns and follow-ups to appropriate supervisors Staff absences and related communications via email, text, or phone
Represents the Zoo positively during media interviews, with prior approval and training from management
Performs in rotating roles (Puppeteer, Ranger, Biologist, Conservationist) across Show Cast zones. Brings characters to life with enthusiasm, script memorization, choreography, and improvisational skill
Delivers exceptional guest service, promoting the Zoo’s mission and connecting with diverse audiences
Demonstrates mastery of all department equipment and materials, including knowledge of operation, storage, maintenance, and safe handling of props, costumes, puppets, microphones, and sound equipment
Assists in enriching and developing the Performing Arts department through creative contributions such as fabrication, scripting, creature/puppet creation, costume design, and repair work
Collaborates with Events, Education, Animal Care, Conservation & Science, and Guest Services teams: Attends planning meetings and contributes to new programming and storytelling ideas Assists in integrating show team efforts into regular operations and special events Assists in event set-up, tear-down, and staffing as required
Greets every Guest within 10 feet with a warm smile, and every guest within 6 feet with a friendly “hello”
Thanks guests for supporting/visiting the Zoo
Associates with guests to assist and share information
Responds to all guest inquiries, challenges, and comments according to Zoo guest relations procedures
Assists with Guest recovery and de-escalation of situations
Maintains a clean, neat appearance and adheres to the Zoo’s uniform dress code
Takes responsibility to stay informed about happenings at the Zoo, such as: Reading employee communications Attending meetings Relaying pertinent information to front-line staff
Reflects the qualities outlined in the Guest Relations Statement, the Employee Pledge, and our Core Values
Adheres to the Zoo’s policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Policy Manual
Applies and exemplifies “green” (sustainable) practices whenever possible
Assists with other Guest Services & Front Gate operations as necessary
Participates in special team assignments as appropriate
Handles emergency situations in a professional manner and according to Zoo policy and protocol.
Remains calm and creates an atmosphere of calm and control for those dealing with emergency situations
Other duties as determined by Management