Registrars at the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance have voted to join Teamsters Local 481, marking the second group of workers at the organization to unionize with the local chapter this year, according to PR Newswire reporting from September 16, 2026. The new bargaining unit adds to an expanding labor footprint at the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance.
San Diego Zoo Registrars Join Teamsters Local 481
The newly organized registrars manage the zoo’s wildlife collection record-keeping systems, regulatory compliance, and animal transaction tracking, as reported by PR Newswire. Workers initiated organizing efforts earlier in the year following discussions with existing SDZWA Teamsters stewards regarding the 2025 contract campaign.
“We joined the Teamsters because we’ve seen firsthand the benefits that union representation brings to other employees at SDZWA,” said Jeremy Hodges, a registrar and new member of Teamsters Local 481, in statements provided to PR Newswire. “As registrars, we’re proud of the specialized work we do, and we want to make sure our compensation, benefits, and voice in the workplace reflect the value of that work.”
Broader Organizing Momentum at the Wildlife Alliance
This unionization follows a similar vote in June 2026, when veterinary technicians at the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance also voted to join Teamsters Local 481, according to PR Newswire. Local 481 represents approximately 1,800 workers across the SDZWA enterprise, encompassing staff from retail and concessions to wildlife care specialists and horticulturalists.
“We’re proud to welcome the registrars to the Teamsters,” said Erin Borgardt, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 481, via PR Newswire. “The momentum is building at SDZWA as more workers recognize the power of standing together. We look forward to welcoming more workers into our union and fighting for one strong contract.”
Across the wider San Diego region, Teamsters Local 481 represents 4,000 members across various industries, including building supply, automotive, UPS, and operations at both the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, as detailed by PR Newswire.