Zoo needs to fill 150 summer jobs

Popular regional attraction still enjoying record crowds as economy fades

Pamplin Media Group, Mar 20, 2009, Updated Oct 30, 2009 (1 Reader comment)

Want to work with a bunch of animals this summer?

The Oregon Zoo plans to fill 150 seasonal jobs in its warehouse, catering, food service, security and custodial operations.

The mostly part-time jobs could start immediately. Applications are being accepted online at www.oregonzoo.org/Involved/jobs.htm .

“Despite the economic downturn, the Oregon Zoo continues to see an increasing number of visitors, and we expect even more this summer,” said Metro Council President David Bragdon. “The zoo will need to fill quite a few positions, and is looking for competent, customer-service-oriented people who want to be part of the zoo team.”

Even as the economy sank and unemployment across the state soared to heights not seen in 26 years, the Oregon Zoo was a popular attraction. Last year the zoo had nearly 1.6 million visitors, and is on track to break another attendance record this year, with 100,000 more visitors than last year. Zoo membership is also up with nearly 45,000 member households.

The Oregon Zoo is the No. 1 fee-based tourist attraction in the Northwest, and is home to nearly 2,000 mammals, fish, birds, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates. Two new exhibits will open later this year: Predators of the Serengeti in fall and Red Ape Reserve in winter.

Regional voters also approved a $125 million zoo bond in November to add more exhibits and improve facilities.

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