Position Summary

Groundskeepers play an important role in making the Zoo a pleasant and enjoyable place for our guests and animals by carefully maintaining the Zoo Grounds and Rental Facilities. They provide thoughtful and responsive customer service to internal (i.e. co-workers) and external (vendors, park visitors, contractors etc.) guests while enjoying the fresh air and scenic splendor of our 100 acre property.

Essential Job Duties

• Maintain plants, shrubs, trees, lawns, parking areas and public pathways.
• Manage weed abatement and trash pick-up.
• Set up for Zoo special events and prepare spaces for parties/meetings in rental facilities.
• Operate tools and machinery as needed to perform duties.
• Performs other related duties as required and assigned.

Who You Are

• Able to safely operate heavy machinery and small power tools.
• Able to read and interpret complex instructions and manuals
• Active Class C Driver’s License with a clean DMV record (able to obtain authorization to drive from Zoo’s insurance provider)
• Skilled in safe use of tools and equipment associated with landscaping and grounds.
• Able to lift and carry objects weighing 75 pounds or more.
• Able to work outside in all weather conditions, sometimes in or around significant dirt and dust.
• Able to bend and twist, stand, kneel, sit, walk, bend, stoop and speak regularly and for 8-hour shifts
• Able to work weekends and early morning shifts

Bonus if you

• Have previous Grounds and/or landscaping experience
• Possess a High School Diploma/GED or BA degree

Knowledge, Skills, and Qualities– May be representative, but not all-inclusive, of those knowledge, skills and abilities commonly associated with this position.

• Communication – communicates respectfully and effectively with stakeholders across identities
• Inclusive Culture - fosters a culture of mutual respect, transparency, collaboration and belonging which allows all employees to feel appreciated, included, and valued.
• Passion – wholeheartedly believes in, represents, and models Oakland Zoo’s mission and PRIDE values at all times
• Wildlife Aware - understands mission to support the conservation and welfare of animals at The Zoo, locally and globally. This is demonstrated by a willingness/passion to reflect this mission in all actions and to continue to learn how to take action for wildlife
• Sustainability – oriented toward the mission and values of the Oakland Zoo and able to put those into practice by finding creative and resourceful ways to develop sustainable practices within your role and department

Education

• High School or better

Behaviors

• Enthusiastic: Shows intense and eager enjoyment and interest
• Detail Oriented: Capable of carrying out a given task with all details necessary to get the task done well
• Team Player: Works well as a member of a group

Motivations

• Work-Life Balance: Inspired to perform well by having ample time to pursue work and interests outside of work
• Self-Starter: Inspired to perform without outside help
• Flexibility: Inspired to perform well when granted the ability to set your own schedule and goals