Operations Section Lead
Help build the team that creates unforgettable experiences for our guests. As an Operations Section Lead, you'll play an important role in recruiting, hiring, and onboarding employees who support the organization's mission and daily operations. From connecting with candidates to assisting new hires as they begin their journey, you'll help ensure departments are staffed with the talented individuals needed to deliver exceptional guest experiences. If you enjoy working with people, solving problems, and supporting a positive team culture, this may be the perfect opportunity for you.
ResponsibilitiesRecruiting & Staffing
- Assist with seasonal recruitment efforts, staffing initiatives, and candidate outreach.
- Monitor applications and communicate with candidates throughout the hiring process.
- Participate in interviews, hiring events, job fairs, and other recruitment activities.
- Support department staffing goals by helping attract and retain qualified team members.
Onboarding & Training
- Coordinate new hire onboarding activities, including completion of required documentation, training registration, and scheduling.
- Partner with Human Resources and Payroll to facilitate a smooth onboarding experience.
- Support employees through the onboarding process and help answer questions regarding procedures and expectations.
Administrative & Operational Support
- Maintain accurate employee records, hiring documentation, and departmental files.
- Prepare reports, correspondence, schedules, and other administrative materials as needed.
- Provide daily support to the Operations Coordinator and Operations leadership team.
- Maintain proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and other department systems.
- Cross-train and serve as a backup for the Base Operations position when needed.
Guest Service & Team Collaboration
- Foster positive working relationships with employees, leaders, and cross-functional departments.
- Demonstrate professionalism, effective communication, and a commitment to teamwork.
- Deliver exceptional guest service while supporting the organization's mission and values.
- Follow all policies, procedures, and safety standards while contributing to a positive work environment.
- Support operational excellence through adaptability, problem-solving, and a willingness to assist wherever needed.
Knowledge & Technical Skills
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Excel, Word, Teams, and SharePoint.
- Ability to learn and effectively utilize recruiting, onboarding, scheduling, and recordkeeping systems.
- Strong computer skills with the ability to maintain accurate electronic records and documentation.
- Ability to handle confidential employee information with professionalism and discretion.
Communication & Relationship Management
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to interact professionally and effectively with applicants, employees, supervisors, and leadership.
- Skilled at providing information, responding to questions, and delivering clear and timely follow-up.
- Demonstrated commitment to customer service and building positive working relationships.
Organization & Attention to Detail
- Strong organizational skills with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks, deadlines, and competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Effective time management and follow-through on assignments and projects.
- Ability to maintain accurate records, files, and documentation.
Adaptability & Team Collaboration
- Ability to adjust to changing priorities and business needs.
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Willingness to cross-train and support operational needs as required.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with employees and leaders across multiple departments.
- Demonstrated flexibility, initiative, and commitment to supporting team success.
Skills Required
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Excel, Word, Teams, and SharePoint
- Ability to learn and effectively use recruiting, onboarding, scheduling, and recordkeeping systems
- Strong computer skills and ability to maintain accurate electronic records and documentation
- Ability to handle confidential employee information professionally and discreetly
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to interact professionally with applicants, employees, supervisors, and leadership
- Customer service and relationship-building skills
- Strong organizational skills, accuracy, and attention to detail
- Ability to manage multiple tasks, deadlines, and competing priorities
- Effective time management and follow-through
- Ability to adapt to changing priorities and business needs
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently
- Ability to collaborate effectively across departments
- Willingness to cross-train and support operational needs
What We Do
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a nonprofit zoological institution in Powell, Ohio, dedicated to connecting people with wildlife and advancing conservation. It provides care for more than 10,000 animals representing 600 species, welcomes over 2.2 million visitors annually, and supports more than 75 conservation initiatives across 20 countries worldwide. Its mission is “Empowering People. Saving Wildlife,” with a purpose of making a positive impact on people, wildlife, and wild places.
