This entry-level position is responsible for assisting in the fabrication of realistic, naturalistic exhibit elements, including artificial rocks, trees, mud, earth banks, and other installations under the supervision of an experienced Exhibit Artist. The Exhibit Fabricator supports the Exhibit Artist in preparing construction materials, assists in maintaining and organizing tools and supplies, and contributes to the construction of new exhibits, renovations to existing exhibits, and execution of repairs and other work orders.
Our Mission:
- Houston Zoo connects communities with animals, inspiring action to save wildlife.
Our Vision:
- Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
- Assists in the construction of rockwork and other sculptural elements, including tying rebar and lath armatures for structural support.
- Supports the Exhibit Artist in preparing and handling construction materials such as concrete, epoxy, fiberglass, acrylic, and other media.
- Assists with painting, texturing, and detailing sculptures and murals to produce high-quality finishes.
- Maintains clean, organized workspaces, including maintaining tools, organizing supplies, and performing daily clean-up of job sites.
- Inventories and tracks materials and tools in the Exhibit shop area.
- Uses hand tools such as trowels and brushes, and power tools such as saws and drills.
- Assists in the operation of machinery such as concrete mixers and shotcrete pumps under supervision of the Exhibit Artist.
- Applies paints and stains, carves and sculpts, and creates finish textures under supervision and direction of the Exhibit Artist.
- Ensures the use of proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to safety standards on all job sites.
- Communicates and coordinates with other zoo staff, including the Exhibit Artist and animal care teams, to schedule tasks and access exhibits.
- Contributes to saving animals in the wild through reduction of waste, water and energy use and inspiring guests and staff to take wildlife protecting actions.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Education and Experience:
- High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or one to three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
About Houston Zoo
- Houston Zoo is made up of many moving parts with over 6,000 permanent residents (our animals) for whom we provide housing, meals, medical care and, yes, even education!
- There are over 2 million guests each year who come to experience our incredible variety of animals and ecosystems, as well as attend special private and public events and entertainment. Our dedicated staff works around the clock to ensure that the Zoo is always running smoothly for the safety and well-being of our residents and guests.
- We strive to ensure the protection of all the counterparts of the animals we have at the Zoo and in the wild.
- Join the Houston Zoo and become a part of an organization that is focused on the preservation of wildlife and their habitats by combining conservation with education and promotion of sustainable livelihoods in the local communities.
- The Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
