A Maintenance Helper or Assistant assists maintenance mechanics. Repairs and maintains equipment and machines, such as cars or heating systems. May assemble or adjust machines as directed by a head mechanic.
is an independent park district in Pierce County, Washington, proudly accredited by both the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) & the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA). As a leader in promoting a healthy, sustainable community, Parks Tacoma manages a diverse range of facilities that provide our communities with exceptional recreational opportunities—from local neighborhood parks and scenic waterfront access to large regional attractions. Serving as both a vital community resource and a regional destination, Parks Tacoma plays a central role in enhancing quality of life throughout the area.
POINT DEFIANCE ZOO & AQUARIUM
i s the only combined zoo and aquarium in the Pacific Northwest. The 29-acre zoological park was established in 1905, and attracts over 800,000 visitors a year. It is nationally accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, which ensures rigorously high standards of animal welfare, veterinary care, conservation, education and more. The Zoo sits within 700-acre Point Defiance Park, offering spectacular views of Mount Rainier, the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is operated by Parks Tacoma.
OUR MISSION
- Awakening a connection to Wild Life with everyone in the Pacific Northwest. Learn more at pdza.org
POSITION INFORMATION
- Under the direction of an assigned lead, the Maintenance Assistant III will work alongside full and part-time Facilities staff, including Electricians, Carpenters, Plumbers, HVAC Technicians, Horticulturists, Life Support staff, and Maintenance Technicians. Depending on experience, skills, and interests, assignments may focus on aquatic life support systems, general maintenance work orders, plumbing, HVAC, pumps and mechanical equipment, carpentry, electrical, painting, horticulture, or other facility maintenance and repair work. This position will assist with the operation, inspection, cleaning, and maintenance of specialized life support systems, including pumps, filtration equipment, water-quality equipment, and chemical-dosing systems. This position will assist in construction, alteration, preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of zoo buildings, facilities, equipment, and animal exhibits within the employee's training and assigned responsibilities. This position will also provide support for zoo-wide activities and seasonal events, including Zoolights, as needed. Applicants are not expected to have experience in every area and will receive training and work assignments appropriate to their qualifications and responsibilities. In the performance of their respective tasks and duties all employees are expected to: Perform quality work within deadlines with or without direct supervision. Interact professionally with other employees, customers and suppliers. Work effectively as a team contributor on all assignments. Work independently while understanding the necessity for communicating and coordinating work efforts with other employees and organizations. Observe applicable safety requirements, use safety equipment provided, implement appropriate safety practices at all times and report immediately any unsafe working conditions or hazards. Essential Duties At Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, a Maintenance Assistant III will: Perform semi-skilled and skilled work in the construction, alteration, preventative maintenance, and repair of zoo buildings, facilities, equipment, animal exhibits, and grounds. Assist with general maintenance work orders and the operation, inspection, cleaning, and maintenance of aquatic life support, plumbing, HVAC, filtration, pumping, and other mechanical systems. Support zoo-wide operations, special projects, seasonal events, and other duties as assigned based on operational needs and the employee's skills and training. Success in this role requires strong communication and customer service skills, along with the ability to build positive relationships that contribute to a respectful, inclusive workplace. We're looking for someone who is organized, dependable, and adaptable, with the ability to prioritize work, use sound judgment to solve problems and meet deadlines. Minimum Qualifications Must be at least 21 years of age A valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record A five-year driving abstract will be required at hire, at applicant's expense Two or more years' experience in at least one of the following areas: Facility maintenance Aquatic Life Support (Aquatic Animal Life Support Operators (AALSO) certification is preferred for candidates with an aquatic life support background) Plumbing HVAC Mechanical systems Carpentry Electrical Horticulture Construction Other related field An equivalent combination of relevant education, training, and experience may be considered. Candidates are not expected to have experience in every area listed. Additional Information HOURS - This is a part time position scheduled for up to 29 hours per week. Days and hours per week may vary as needed for coverage, season and events.
WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Ability to kneel, stand, crawl, push, pull, squat, bend, stretch, bend at the waist, stoop, squat, and reach overhead, above the shoulders and horizontally. Mobility to navigate many types of surfaces and terrain, including the ability to stand and walk for extending periods of time over rough, uneven, wet, slippery, and/or steep surfaces. Requires ascending/descending ladder work. Physical strength and ability to perform manual labor for extended periods of time. Pulling, pushing, carrying and lifting objects weighing up to 50 pounds repeatedly in the normal course of duties. Exposures to adverse weather conditions in various indoor, outdoor, and shop work environments and may occasionally require work in dirty, wet, noisy, or cramped workspaces. Employees in this position are subject to fumes, dust, pollen, noise from equipment operation, and potentially hazardous materials. Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a variety of specialized equipment including hand and power tools. Sitting for extended periods of time while operating grounds equipment. May require driving a vehicle to conduct work. Ability to communicate to exchange information with employees and customers. Ability to navigate emergency situations and perform CPR.
