The Mechanic is responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the Zoo’s fleet, equipment, rides, and mechanical systems. This role performs preventive maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs on a wide range of assets, including gas-powered and diesel vehicles, heavy equipment, utility carts, rides, hydraulic systems, and electric motors. This position plays a critical role in supporting safety-critical, guest-facing assets by minimizing downtime, extending asset life, and supporting daily operations, special events, and animal care needs.
SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Perform scheduled preventive and corrective maintenance on fleet vehicles, equipment, rides, and power tools to ensure safe and reliable operation.
- Conduct inspections, identify potential failures, and recommend corrective actions before breakdowns occur.
- Assist with ride and equipment start-up, testing, and verification prior to return to service, following established procedures.
- Maintain accurate maintenance records, service logs, and inspection documentation.
- Diagnose and repair mechanical, electrical, fuel, ignition, braking, steering, cooling, and exhaust systems.
- Troubleshoot and repair gas, diesel, and electric-powered equipment.
- Repair and maintain hydraulic equipment, systems, gates, and actuators.
- Perform and document maintenance, inspections, troubleshooting, and repairs on Zoo rides and attractions, including the Mini Train, Carousel, and Zipline, in accordance with manufacturer requirements and safety standards.
- Maintain tools, equipment, and shop areas in clean, organized, and safe conditions.
- Identify needed parts and supplies and communicate shortages or replacement needs to supervision.
- Respond to service calls and equipment issues across the Zoo campus.
- Communicate clearly and professionally with Zoo staff, contractors, and vendors.
- Interact courteously with Zoo guests as needed, maintaining a positive guest experience.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Minimum of two (2) years of hands-on experience in automotive, diesel, heavy equipment, industrial maintenance, amusement rides, municipal fleet, agricultural equipment, or similar mechanical fields.
- High school diploma or GED.
- Valid driver’s license with reliable transportation.
- Ability to read and interpret service manuals, schematics, and technical instructions.
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and operational demands.
- Self-motivated, dependable, and able to work effectively as part of a team.
- Strong oral and written communication skills.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with all levels of staff and the public.
- Ability to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach overhead, pull, bend, and climb stairs and ladders.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to work outdoors in inclement weather, including heat, cold, rain, and humidity.
- Availability to work weekends, holidays, nights, and evenings as operational needs require.
- Successful candidates must pass pre-employment drug screening, background check, and TB test.
