Groundskeeper

ORGANIZATION OVERVIEW:

The Pueblo Zoo is a vibrant, collaborative, and flexible workplace. The Pueblo Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is home to nearly 250 animals representing more than 125 species. Driven by our mission to empower people to engage in conservation of animals and their natural habitat, we serve 100,000 annual visitors, provide educational outreach to tens of thousands of students, and directly support global species conservation. At its core, Pueblo Zoo values animal welfare, teamwork, education, collaboration and community. The Zoo is located in Southern Colorado and provides a great living experience in a big, small town that offers endless outdoor and cultural opportunities without the hassle of congested big city problems.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

The Facilities Team works together to ensure the optimal stewardship of the PZ campus, supporting excellence in visitor experience, animal wellbeing, staff experience and asset management. The focus of this position is primarily upkeep of the grounds and event support. Assignments include weed control, landscaping, trash removal, pest control, cleaning and completion of special projects and assignments.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Removes trash and recycling, debris removal, and some janitorial work.

• Performs routine grounds maintenance including mowing, watering, weeding, fertilizing, mulching, planting, trimming, spraying, and snow/ice removal.

• Assists with setup and breakdown of Special Event and Rental needs as needed by the Events Coordinator and Guest Services Coordinator.

• Assists with the completion of special projects as directed. These projects may involve painting, carpentry, plumbing, concrete work, use of power tools, and/or electrical and maintenance, routine vehicle care, sign and amenities maintenance and repairs of the irrigation systems as directed.

• Observes, recognizes type of problem, and reports maintenance needs of equipment, buildings, and grounds.

• Works with volunteers and CRs and Correctional workers as directed.

• Drives or operates mechanical equipment and motor vehicles safely and without causing damage to Zoo property or equipment.

• Maintains all shop and other work areas in a clean and orderly manner.

• Helps assemble and take down Electricritters holiday light displays. Works Electricritters evenings as assigned.

• Assist with snow removal.

• Demonstrate a commitment to Sustainability Policies by adhering to all environmental, safety, health regulations, procedures, and goals.

• Interact with the public, if the circumstance arises, to provide information on PZ’s animal collection, either through personal knowledge or by referring the question to an appropriate PZ staff.

• Other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

Working knowledge of similar or related duties; willingness to learn grounds facility maintenance needs; ability to follow written and oral directions; physical strength and stamina; ability to foresee and apply safety precautions necessary; willingness to accept regular weekend, holiday and occasional after hours assignments; skill to exercise good judgment in evaluation of situations and making decisions. Actively demonstrates leadership through actions, reactions, decisions, and professional demeanor. Practices solution based problem solving and learns from mistakes. Works with the team to find solutions and asks for help when needed. Dedication to the Pueblo Zoo mission.

ENVIRONMENTAL & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. Able to bend, stoop, crawl and walk on uneven surfaces and work outdoors in extreme weather conditions.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. This job description is intended as a guide to the general job responsibilities and is not inclusive of every duty the employee is expected to perform.

QUALIFICATIONS:

High school diploma or equivalent required. Experience in grounds maintenance and repairs, using power mowers and weed eaters, and gardening required. Irrigation system maintenance and repair preferred. Tractor experience and mechanical abilities preferred. Knowledge of general buildings maintenance and repairs, painting, vehicle maintenance, and construction skills desirable. Must be insurable with Zoo underwriter and possess and maintain a valid Colorado driver's license within 30 days.

Please send resume and cover letter to jobs@pueblozoo.org by January 20th

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $15.00 - $15.15 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Evenings as needed
• Every weekend
• Year round work

Work Location: In person

Salary : $15 - $15