Employment

Position Summary 

The Senior Maintenance Technician is a highly skilled position responsible for advanced repairs, troubleshooting, preventative maintenance, and leading maintenance and infrastructure projects throughout the property. This role plays a critical part in ensuring the reliability, safety, and overall functionality of zoo facilities, equipment, attractions, utilities, and operational infrastructure while supporting the development and training of maintenance team members. 

This position requires a high level of organization, communication, and coordination across multiple departments and teams to maintain maintenance schedules, logs, inspections, and ongoing projects. The Senior Maintenance Technician is expected to maintain a safe work environment, uphold regulatory compliance standards, and assist in planning and prioritizing maintenance operations. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities – Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: 

• Inspect, troubleshoot, repair, and perform advanced maintenance work involving electrical, plumbing, carpentry, mechanical, and related systems 

• Diagnose and resolve complex maintenance and infrastructure issues in a timely and efficient manner 

• Lead and execute construction, renovation, and facility improvement projects 

• Conduct routine inspections of buildings, grounds, equipment, rides, tools, and operational systems 

• Develop, maintain, and document preventative maintenance schedules, policies, procedures, and service logs 

• Coordinate and communicate maintenance needs and project timelines across departments 

• Mentor, train, and support junior maintenance staff and team members 

• Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations, company safety standards, and operational policies 

• Assist in planning, prioritizing, and delegating maintenance tasks and projects 

• Perform routine maintenance and servicing of equipment, vehicles, tools, and machinery to ensure proper and safe operation 

• Monitor and manage maintenance supplies, inventory, and purchasing within approved budgets 

• Respond to operational emergencies and urgent repair situations as needed 

• Maintain accurate records of inspections, repairs, maintenance schedules, certifications, and completed projects 

• Operate heavy equipment, lifts, power tools, and specialized machinery in a safe and professional manner 

Qualifications and Requirements 

• Minimum of 5+ years of maintenance, construction, or skilled trade experience required 

• Expertise in at least one major skilled trade area preferred (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, carpentry, mechanical systems, etc.) 

• Professional licenses and certifications in applicable trades preferred 

• OSHA certifications required 

• Certifications and licenses for multiple pieces of equipment and machinery required 

• Strong understanding of preventative maintenance practices and facility operations 

• Ability to work independently while also leading projects and collaborating with teams 

• Strong organizational, communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills 

• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects simultaneously 

• Ability to work in indoor and outdoor environments and in varying weather conditions 

• Flexible availability, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and emergency response situations as operational needs require 

Physical Requirements 

• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull heavy materials and equipment 

• Ability to stand, walk, climb ladders, kneel, crouch, and work in physically demanding environments for extended periods 

• Ability to safely operate tools, machinery, lifts, and maintenance equipment 

• Ability to work at heights and in varying environmental conditions 

Additional Information

 This job description is intended to outline the general responsibilities and requirements of the position and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Additional duties may be assigned based on operational needs.  

Pay Range $27 – $36 per hour.  

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.  

Summary

This full-time position performs basic animal husbandry for a wide variety of animals. This person fills in for the department manager(s) when they are not at the zoo.  The position reports to the Managers of the Large Animal Department and the Zoological Director of Southwick’s Zoo.

Duties

• Responsible for daily care and feeding of animals in the department.
• Change staff schedules as needed to ensure adequate department staffing daily in the absence of the department Manager.
• Mentors interns and assists manager to ensure evaluations are completed at the end of each intern session.
• Mentors new staff as requested by department manager.
• Proposes training plans, habitat changes and diet plans to manager and follows through with implementation after approval.
• Supervises daily training, husbandry and enrichment changes that have been approved by the manager
• In the absence of the Large Animal Department manager, communicates and schedules vet care with the Zoo Vet regarding animal welfare, and collects observations from staff, and assist with procedures as well as administer medicine as needed
• Is actively involved with training of animals in the department.
• Ensures that enrichment is appropriate and provided for all animals in the department.
• Provide assistance with live animal interactions and showings (seasonal) and informally educate visitors between presentations as well as provide guidance for job shadowing
• Must attend zoo wide meetings and complete all training required by Southwick’s Zoo
• Other Duties as assigned

Requirements

1. Bachelors degree in Zoology, Biology, Animal Science or a related field is highly preferred or at least 4 years paid experience in a related field
2. Must be at least 18 years old
3. Valid Driver’s license to drive company vehicles
4. Strong observational skills with the ability to identify signs of illness, injury or distress in animals
5. Must have the ability to regularly stand, walk, sit, use hands, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl, talk/hear and smell.
6. Must be able to lift 100 lbs regularly
7. Must be able to follow safety protocols
8. Will be exposed to allergens including, but not limited to, dust and hay. May occasionally be exposed to unpredictable animal behavior.
9. Must be able to work in a variety of weather conditions including humid, wet and cold or icy conditions on a regular basis.
10. Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks and make decisions in a fast-paced, changeable environment. Must have reasoning skills to solve practical problems (including math) and deal with a variety of concrete variables in a situation where limited standardization exists.
11. Must be able to work on a computer and learn computer software to document care and respond to emails.
12. Must be able to maintain accurate animal care documents in writing or on a computer.
13. Must be able to work independently and also as part of a team.
14. Must be able to interact professionally and positively with zoo guests.
15. Assist with zoo wide customer support and emergency procedures as needed.
16. Must be available to work weekends and holidays as required.

Must be available to work weekends and holidays as required.

Summary

This full or part time position performs basic animal husbandry for a wide variety of animals in the department. The position reports to the Managers of the Large Animal Department, or the department Lead in the absence of the Manager and the Zoological Director of Southwick’s Zoo.

Duties

• Responsible for daily care and feeding of animals in the department that they have been approved to care for.
• Ensures that enrichment is appropriate and provided for all animals in the department.
• Must attend zoo wide meetings and complete all training required by Southwick’s Zoo
• May be involved with training of animals in the department as requested under the supervision of an Animal Care Specialist, Animal Care Lead or Department Manager.
• May be involved with animal presentations at the discretion of the department manager or lead.
• Other Duties as assigned

Requirements

1. High School Diploma or GED required. Bachelor’s degree preferred
2. Must be at least 18 years old
3. Valid Driver’s license to drive company vehicles
4. Strong observational skills with the ability to identify signs of illness, injury or distress in animals
5. Must have the ability to regularly stand, walk, sit, use hands, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl, talk/hear and smell.
6. Must be able to lift 100 lbs regularly
7. Must be able to follow safety protocols
8. Will be exposed to allergens including, but not limited to, dust and hay. May occasionally be exposed to unpredictable animal behavior.
9. Must be able to work in a variety of weather conditions including humid, wet and cold or icy conditions on a regular basis.
10. Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks and make decisions in a fast-paced, changeable environment. Must have reasoning skills to solve practical problems (including math) and deal with a variety of concrete variables in a situation where limited standardization exists.
11. Must be able to work on a computer and learn computer software to document care and respond to emails.
12. Must be able to maintain accurate animal care documents in writing or on a computer.
13. Must be able to work independently and also as part of a team.
14. Must be able to interact professionally and positively with zoo guests.
15. Assist with zoo wide customer support and emergency procedures as needed.

Must be available to work weekends and holidays as required.

Summary

This part-time position provides animal care support across various Animal Care Departments at Southwick’s Zoo. The Swing Zookeeper is responsible for assisting with the daily care, welfare, enrichment, and safety of animals throughout the zoo’s collection. This position requires flexibility and the ability to adapt to the changing needs of individual departments and may involve working with a variety of animal species and taxa.

The Swing Zookeeper will report directly to the Curator of Southwick’s Zoo and, when assigned to a specific department, will work under the direction of the appropriate Department Manager or Lead Keeper. The schedule will vary based on departmental and operational needs.

Duties

• Provide daily animal care as assigned, including feeding, cleaning enclosures, preparing diets, maintaining exhibits, and ensuring the overall health and safety of the animals.
• Assist with the care of animals across multiple departments and taxonomic groups as directed by the Curator, Department Managers, or Lead Keepers.
• Implement and maintain appropriate enrichment programs to encourage natural behaviors, promote physical activity, and support the animals’ overall mental well-being.
• Observe and monitor animal behavior, appetite, appearance, and overall condition, promptly reporting any changes or concerns to the appropriate Department Manager, Lead Keeper, or Curator.
• Maintain animal enclosures, exhibits, holding areas, and work spaces in a clean, safe, and appropriate condition.
• Follow established animal husbandry protocols, safety procedures, and department-specific guidelines.
• Assist with animal moves, restraint, training, medical procedures, and other specialized husbandry activities as directed and appropriately trained.
• Operate equipment, vehicles, farm machinery, and power tools as required for assigned duties and in accordance with zoo safety procedures.
• Interact professionally with zoo visitors and provide accurate information regarding animals, conservation, husbandry, and Southwick’s Zoo’s mission.
• Work cooperatively with keepers, managers, veterinary staff, education staff, and other zoo personnel.
• Maintain accurate animal care records and utilize animal management software as required.
• Adapt to changing departmental needs and be prepared to work in different animal areas as assigned.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is a flexible, dependable, and experienced animal care professional who is comfortable working with a wide variety of animal species and adapting to different departmental needs. This individual should be confident stepping into unfamiliar situations, taking direction from department managers and lead keepers, and maintaining high standards of animal care regardless of their assigned area.

Requirements

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• High School Diploma or GED required; college degree in Zoology, Biology, Animal Science, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years of professional animal care experience preferred, with previous professional zookeeping experience strongly preferred.
• Valid driver’s license required to operate company vehicles on zoo property.
• Must be capable of operating farm equipment and power tools, or willing and able to learn their proper operation.
• Basic knowledge of zoo animal biology, natural history, behavior, husbandry, and geographic range.
• Ability to work independently while also functioning effectively as part of a team.
• Must be adaptable, dependable, and comfortable working with changing assignments and priorities.
• Must be available to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and varying shifts based on departmental needs.
• Must be able to regularly stand, walk, sit, use hands, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl; talk and hear; and occasionally taste and smell.
• Must be able to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds regularly and up to 100 pounds occasionally.
• Must be able to operate a computer and learn and utilize animal management/record-keeping software.
• Must be able to work outdoors regularly in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, humidity, and snow.
• Will regularly be exposed to allergens including hay, pollen, dust, mold, grass, and animal dander.
• May occasionally be exposed to animal bites, scratches, kicks, or other animal-related hazards.
• Must demonstrate a commitment to animal welfare, professional animal husbandry, safety, teamwork, and the mission of Southwick’s Zoo.

The pay range for this position ranges from: $17/hr – $20/hr