Job Description:

Under the direction of the Superintendent of Buildings, Grounds and Project Management, provides daily care and upkeep of the Utica Zoo campus. This includes, but is not limited to: restrooms, operations and event buildings, grounds, planters, structures and fences. This position is critical creating a positive first impression and overall welcoming experience for visitors to the zoo.

To apply, please apply through Indeed, email resume to HR @ Uticazoo.org or stop by the Zoo’s gift shop to fill out an application. Interviews will be scheduled on a rolling basis.

This position will generally be scheduled Tuesday-Saturday or Sunday –Thursday with some nights and other days as needed. This position is Full Time: Hourly, Non-Exempt, and Benefit Eligible.

Duties:

Perform general environmental cleaning duties as directed by supervisor, including sweeping, mopping, scrubbing, dusting, waste collection, rug cleaning, paper picking, laundering, window cleaning, etc.

Daily clean-up of Zoo campus, including: restrooms, walkways, playground, guest areas, staff areas, grounds and trash/recycling bins.

Provide environmental support for special events and rentals as scheduled or requested.

Responsible for affixing and maintaining all zoo graphics.

Monitor health of plants and trees on and surrounding the Zoo campus; aid in clearing weeds, fallen branches/leaves, and compromised trees. Develop an understanding of plant toxicity to animals to maintain a safe environment for the animals, and to aid in providing animal care staff with browse, limbs, and other resources to aid in husbandry goals.

Storage, inventory and ordering of necessary equipment and supplies.

Schedule daily operational duties, special projects, and preventative maintenance.

Monitor state of grounds, buildings, structures and fences; relay any repairs needed to supervisor and Maintenance Technicians. Ensure repairs/modifications are completed.

Assist Maintenance Technicians with projects as requested or assigned.

Ensure familiarity with duties/tasks checklists: Daily, Weekly, Monthly and Annual.

Ensure all equipment and vehicles are in good condition and functioning properly. Report any issues to supervisor and ensure repairs/modifications are completed in a timely manner.

Aid in maintaining storage areas, work spaces, shop and grounds in a neat and orderly fashion. Develop new strategies to improve storage, transfer, and care of equipment.

Learn correct use and maintenance of radio equipment.

Assist and participate in all departmental activities, including meetings.

Aid in monitoring the well-being of the animals throughout the day; report any concerns to supervisor and animal care staff.

Maintain proper reporting and records when required, in line with Zoo protocols.

Other duties as assigned.

Environmental Technicians will:

Assure work, equipment, work areas, and self, represent the Zoo in a safe, clean, professional, and orderly manner at all times.

Adhere to Zoo, OSHA and other regulatory safety standards, procedures, and safety protocols.

Maintain high standards of cleanliness and order throughout the campus.

Recognize that animal welfare is one of our key measures of health and well-being for each individual animal. As such:

Report any behavioral issues, by animals, visitors or staff/volunteers that you believe is concerning or adversely affecting an animal’s well-being.

Maintain safe distances from animals and exhibits while completing duties.

Communicate with animal care staff when entering or exiting buildings/areas where animals are housed or have access.

Will not interact with the animals unless in the company of animal care staff and provided with specific permission and guidance.

Adhere to appropriate uniform/dress code protocols.

Maintain a professional attitude at all times while representing the Utica Zoo.

Possess a task-oriented, problem-solving attitude, willing to lead by example.

Remain open to suggestions from staff on improving the Utica Zoo’s work environment, while aiding other staff in working towards our mission.

Demonstrate personal flexibility, ensuring a progressive, dynamic work environment.

Readily communicate concerns and propose solutions.

Provide excellent guest experiences.

Qualifications:

Strong interest in care of buildings and grounds, with a minimum of 1 year of experience. Experience with related equipment and vehicles preferred. Priority given to candidates holding applicable training, certifications or licenses.

Goal-oriented, exhibiting good follow-through and time management skills.

Ability to work weekends, evenings and special events as scheduled or requested.

Ability to operate all equipment necessary to perform duties.

Basic ability to repair and maintain zoo equipment, structures and facilities.

Ability to relate positively with a diverse staff and diverse groups of visitors.

Able to follow written and verbal instructions and work with minimal supervision.

Ability to perform basic math.

Able to regularly engage in all physical requirements and be lift/carry a minimum of 50 pounds.

Able to actively work in inclement weather conditions year-round.

High school or GED diploma, or equivalent combination of training and/or experience required.

Must successfully pass a background check and must have a valid, current driver’s license.

Must be current on COVID-19 vaccinations and participate in annual TB testing.

Must be at least 18 years of age.

-EOE-

Address: 1 Utica Zoo Way, Utica, NY 13501

Description of Products/Services Business Offers:

Zoo caring for over 200 animals on 80 acres in Roscoe Conkling Park in Utica, NY, creates unique experiences and promotes public appreciation of wildlife through education, conservation, and recreation.

Interview Contact Person: Kyla Jacobs

Email:: hr@uticazoo.org

Website: https://www.uticazoo.org

Phone: (315) 738-0472

Fax: (315) 738-0475