Maintenance Technician
Position Summary
Southwick’s Zoo is seeking a motivated and dependable Maintenance Assistant to support the daily operation, upkeep, and appearance of the zoo. This entry-level position assists the maintenance team with general repairs, facility upkeep, grounds maintenance, event setup, and preventative maintenance to help provide a safe, clean, and enjoyable environment for guests, employees, and animals.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to gain hands-on experience in facility maintenance, construction, and groundskeeping while working in a unique outdoor setting.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Assist maintenance technicians with repairs and improvement projects throughout the zoo.
- Perform basic carpentry, painting, staining, and drywall repairs under supervision.
- Perform basic plumbing, HVAC tasks, maintenance and assistance.
- Help maintain buildings, walkways, fences, gates, benches, picnic tables, signs, and guest areas.
- Complete general cleaning and upkeep of maintenance areas, shops, and storage facilities.
- Assist with landscaping, mowing, trimming, mulching, leaf removal, and seasonal grounds maintenance.
- Help set up and break down special events, festivals, educational programs, and holiday displays.
- Load, unload, and transport materials, equipment, and supplies throughout the property.
- Perform routine inspections and report maintenance concerns to supervisors.
- Replace light bulbs, clean fixtures, and complete minor repairs as assigned. Electrical troubleshooting and repair.
- Mechanical troubleshooting, assistance and repair.
- Operate basic hand tools and power tools safely after receiving proper training.
- Assist with snow removal, storm cleanup, and emergency response efforts as needed.
- Maintain organized workspaces and properly care for tools and equipment.
- Follow all safety policies, OSHA guidelines, and zoo procedures.
- Work cooperatively with maintenance staff and other zoo departments to complete daily tasks.
- Provide courteous interactions with guests while working in public areas.
Qualifications
- High school diploma, GED, or equivalent preferred.
- Previous maintenance, landscaping, construction, or custodial experience is helpful but not required.
- Willingness to learn a variety of maintenance skills.
- Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to use hand tools safely.
- Positive attitude, dependable work ethic, and willingness to take direction.
- Ability to work independently after training while contributing as part of a team.
- Valid driver’s license preferred or ability to obtain one.
- Hoisting License preferred
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, climb ladders, and perform physical labor throughout the workday.
- Comfortable working outdoors in all types of weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and snow.
- Ability to safely operate tools and equipment after appropriate training.
Work Environment
This position works throughout the zoo, including guest areas, maintenance shops, exhibits, restaurants, retail locations, offices, and outdoor grounds. Work is performed both indoors and outdoors and may include evenings, weekends, holidays, and occasional overtime during special events or emergency situations.
Preferred Skills
- Basic knowledge of hand and power tools.
- Experience with lawn equipment or landscaping.
- Interest in learning carpentry, plumbing, electrical, painting, or general building maintenance.
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
- Strong work ethic with attention to safety and detail.
Opportunities for Growth
Southwick’s Zoo encourages professional development and provides opportunities to learn new maintenance skills. Employees in this role may receive training in:
- Carpentry
- Painting and finishing
- Basic plumbing
- Basic electrical maintenance
- Equipment operation
- Preventative maintenance
- Construction support
- Grounds maintenance
- Special event setup
Key Characteristics
- Dependable and punctual
- Positive attitude and willingness to learn
- Team-oriented
- Safety-conscious
- Hard-working and self-motivated
- Flexible and adaptable
- Takes pride in maintaining a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for guests, staff, and animals
Pay Range $18-24 per hour.
Pay: $18.00 - $24.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
Application Question(s):
- Are you able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, evenings, holidays, and occasional overtime when needed?
- Are you comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and snow?
- Do you have experience using hand tools, power tools, lawn equipment, maintenance equipment, or similar equipment?
Experience:
- Maintenance: 1 year (Preferred)
License/Certification:
- Driver's License (Required)
Work Location: In person
