Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA) is a leader in animal care, wildlife conservation, and education. We are passionate about our commitment to excellence in support of our mission of Inspiring Communities to Save Wildlife for Future Generations.
DZCA honors our animals, staff, and guests by conducting ourselves at the highest level of integrity through our Core Actions -- Inspire Awe: Safety, Care, Connect, and by embracing our Core Values of: Welcoming, Curious, United, Courageous, and Transformative in all that we do.
The Security Officer (Level II) plays a key role in maintaining a safe and secure environment at DZCA, actively responding to and resolving security risks, hazards, and unauthorized access across the campus. By monitoring security systems, addressing emergencies, and documenting incidents, the officer ensures the safety of guests, staff, and animals while supporting a positive guest experience. This position strengthens the overall security infrastructure, enabling the smooth operation of the zoo and reinforcing DZCA's commitment to safety, conservation, and guest engagement. Bilingual in Spanish/English candidates are encouraged to apply. Candidates must be able to work weekends and holidays as needed.
The Security Department has the following shifts available; all shifts require seasonal overtime:
- Day Shift: Varying 8-hour workday between 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM.
Our team is made up of passionate and diverse professionals dedicated to providing excellent care for our animals while creating meaningful experiences for our guests. If you're excited to contribute your skills in a collaborative and innovative environment, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is the place for you!
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Security Operations
- Conduct frequent and visible patrols across the DZCA campus, including grounds and buildings, to proactively identify hazards, vulnerabilities, unauthorized individuals, or security concerns.
- Monitor and utilize CCTV, electronic access control, weather systems, and other security technologies according to department policies and procedures.
- Identify and report suspicious, unsafe, or criminal activities that may pose a threat to guests, staff, animals, property, or assets. Ensuring access to the campus is limited to authorized personnel only.
- Respond to emergency calls from the Security Department, Zoo staff, or the public. Implement emergency procedures as required.
- Record patrol activities, daily tasks, lost and found items, work orders, and other relevant data in an electronic logging system, ensuring accurate and organized records.
- Conduct initial investigations of reported incidents or discovered hazards, documenting findings and producing concise incident reports.
- Stay informed about emergency policies and procedures and respond appropriately to emergencies.
- Care for, maintain, and track all DZCA security equipment and property.
- Assist with snow and ice removal as needed.
Guest and Staff Safety
- Administer first aid to sick or injured individuals, including employees, volunteers, visitors, and guests; collaborate with medical and public safety teams to respond to emergencies.
- Enhance the guest experience by assisting guests, answering questions, and resolving security issues in a professional and welcoming manner.
- Serve as a role model in fostering a safety-first culture throughout DZCA.
- Primarily perform roving patrols while supporting other security staff across the campus
Technical / Professional Requirements & Qualifications
- 1-2 years of experience in civilian or military security, safety, loss prevention, or law enforcement, with the ability to effectively engage with guests and employees to resolve concerns. Equivalent experience, lived experience, or special skills will be considered.
- Experience in a high-volume, customer-focused environment or working in a non-profit setting is preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Proven computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite, are required. Experience with CCTV, electronic access control systems, visitor management, and/or incident documentation systems is a plus.
- Ability to proactively identify security risks, unauthorized individuals, and safety hazards through patrols and monitoring systems.
- Strong organizational, written, and oral communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, and attention to detail skills. Ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
- Adaptability to meet deadlines in a fast-paced, multi-tasking environment, with the ability to work well within a team.
- Sound judgment and the ability to perform well under pressure, while handling sensitive information with confidentiality.
Position Conditions
- To support our security operations, candidates must be at least 21 years of age with a valid driver's license and a clean driving record.
- Ability to pass a physical examination, background check, and pre-employment drug and alcohol screen.
- Ability to obtain a Denver Security License.
- Ability to lift to 50 lbs.
- Schedule Availability: Ability to work any shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays, with occasional overtime shifts.
- Must be able to walk (80 acres) and/or stand up to 8 hours daily in adverse outdoor conditions such as cold, rain, snow, or extreme heat.
- Required to obtain and maintain certification in Stop the Bleed, First Aid, CPR, and AED (Adult/Child/Infant) within 3 months of hire and maintain throughout employment. (Provided and maintained through the organization).
Compensation:
The range for this position is $22.50 - $25.66 (hourly).
A Truly Wild Workplace with Competitive Benefits
Join our One Zoo Team and enjoy a full spectrum of competitive benefits, including:
- Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
- 403(b) Retirement Account with employer match
- Generous paid time off: vacation, sick leave, personal days, and holidays
- A Family DZCA Membership with discounted tickets to special events
- Concession and retail discounts, plus free parking
- And so much more!
Application Process and Timelines
Application Deadline: May 13, 2026. Review of applications will begin immediately. DZCA reserves the right to close the position before this date.
Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
www.denverzoo.org
