Lions, and Tigers, and Bears — Get a Job at the John Ball Zoo

We all joke around that our office is like working in a zoo. Well now you can actually get a job at the zoo!

The John Ball Zoo is holding two hiring events to find workers to work at the Grand Rapids zoo this summer. The first event is Thursday, February 10th from 4-7 pm. The second event will be Saturday, March 5th from 10am until 1pm.

What Types of Jobs are Available at John Ball Zoo?

John Ball Zoo is looking for workers in the following areas:

• Food & Beverage
• Guest Experience & Admissions
• Retail & Face Painting
• Education
• Building & Grounds
• Rental & Events

The John Ball Zoo website says they are "looking for enthusiastic people to work in a variety of different positions. There will be on-site interviews, giveaways, animals and more!" Last year they welcomed over a half a million people through the gates with the help of their over 200 season employees.

When you attend one of the events, the hiring party will take place in the John Ball Zoo Ball Room located above the administration building. John Ball Zoo is a drug-free facility under federal regulations. Some of the benefits of working at the zoo include a free zoo membership, flexible hours, opportunities for advancement, free lunches, scholarship opportunities, and more.

If you are interested in one of the above jobs, you can apply before attending the hiring event. You can fill out an application on the John Ball Zoo's website.

Beyond the seasonal jobs, there are other employment opportunities available. You can check out that list here.

As a teen, I worked one summer at the John Ball Zoo. I spent my time in the Children's Zoo area taking care of the animals and helping out with the petting zoo area. I have to admit -- it was a fun job! Sure, dealing with animals always has some clean up duties that comes along with the job, but it was cool to be able to interact with the animals and the people visiting the zoo. (Somewhere at home I still have my zoo badge with my name on it!)

Visit John Ball Zoo

If you haven't been to the John Ball Zoo recently, once they open up for the season -- plan on a visit. They have completely renovated the entrance to the zoo. It looks so much better.  You won't believe it's the same place!

John Ball Zoo opens for the 2022 season on Friday, March 25th. Check their website for daily hours (they vary from day to day).

John Ball Zoo is located at 1300 West Fulton Street...