Horticulture Technician Blank Park Zoo
3 Des Moines, IA Job Details Full-time 23 hours ago Qualifications Grounds maintenance and landscaping equipment operation In-person customer service Employee relationship building Research Company vehicle operation High school diploma or GED Driver's License Skid steer loader Full Job Description Job Type Full Time Department Horticulture Experience 1 year of experience or 1 year of education Posted June 09, 2026 The Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines, Iowa is a non-profit organization and home to more than 2,800 animals representing nearly 240 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish, and is fully accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The mission of the Blank Park Zoo is to inspire an appreciation of the natural world through conservation, education, research and recreation. Position Purpose To accomplish all aspects of zoo horticulture, outdoor and indoor, and equipment maintenance. Essential Functions Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions. Follows all protocols to maintain safe working conditions for staff, visitors and animals. Completes tasks related to all aspects of horticulture maintenance: grass mowing, weed-eating, leaf raking, trimming, pruning, tree removal, turf maintenance, etc. Provides general labor as required. Supervises seasonal staff, volunteers, and volunteer groups that work in the horticulture department. Examples of volunteer functions include planting and maintenance of flower gardens, clean-up of leaves and trash on grounds, and occasional light maintenance duties. Assist in emergency situations as needed (guest or staff illness, weather, etc.) Assist maintenance as needed Other duties as a signed Competencies Resourceful
- Understanding of or ability to research methods and materials used to create exhibits and animal areas. Flexible
- Ability to handle a flexible workload and hours with a variety of assignments. Independent
- Must be able to operate independently, exercise initiative, and demonstrate capacity for detail and follow-up. Positive
- Must be a positive, effective team member and be able to establish professional working relationships. Clear communication skills, both verbal and written Customer
- Oriented
- Must be able to exercise professional customer service skills at all times, with many different types of people and all situations. Innovative
- Ability to propose solutions to areas of concern as related to horticulture, project construction, and exhibit design.
Supervisory/Management Responsibilities Seasonal staff and volunteers Work Environment While performing the job duties, the incumbent is regularly required to stand, walk on uneven terrain, climb, and utilize manual dexterity to use various tools, machines, and equipment. The incumbent is regularly exposed to all types of weather conditions including extreme heat and cold, snow, hail, wind, and rain. Most of the job tasks are completed outside. Some work is required in small and/or confined spaces. Incumbents are exposed to noisy environments such as mowers and motors. Physical Requirements The physical requirements described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to successfully perform the essential functions. Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles and the like. Never Occasionally Constantly Moving self in different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments including tight and confined spaces. Never Occasionally Constantly Remaining in a stationary position, often standing or sitting for prolonged periods. Never Occasionally Constantly Moving about to accomplish tasks or moving from one worksite to another. Never Occasionally Constantly Adjusting or moving objects up to 50 pounds in all directions. Never Occasionally Constantly Communicating with others to exchange information. Never Occasionally Constantly Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers. Never Occasionally Constantly Operating machinery and/or power tools. Never Occasionally Constantly Operating motor vehicles or heavy equipment. Never Occasionally Constantly Assessing the accuracy, neatness and thoroughness of the work assigned. Never Occasionally Constantly Driving. Never Occasionally Constantly Stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling
- Never Occasionally Constantly Reaching with hands and arms.
Never Occasionally Constantly Tasting or smelling. Never Occasionally Constantly Vision Close vision; Distant vision; Color vision; Peripheral vision; Depth perception; Ability to adjust focus Lifting Requirement. more than 50 pounds Up to 50 pounds Up to 40 pounds Up to 25 pounds Up to 10 pounds Required education and experience Completion of two years of college major course work in a horticulture field or related area OR any combination in which education and experience are interchangeable at the rate of one year of education for one year of experience. High school diploma required or GED. Additional eligibility requirements Must be insurable to drive a zoo vehicle. Must be able to maintain work hours that will serve the needs of the Blank Park Zoo including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Must be able to operate various equipment, including skid loaders, trailers, and large vehicles. Must be able to maintain calm and act professionally in all situations such as emergencies and guest interactions. Licenses/Certifications Valid Iowa motor vehicle license First Aid/CPR Training Other Duties Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. EEO Statement Blank Park Zoo is an equal opportunity employer and gives employment and promotional consideration without regard to race, color, sex, religion, age, disability, disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam era, and any other protected class as required by local, state, or federal law. We seek applicants for employment who are dedicated, hardworking and seek fulfilling employment. In return, Blank Park Zoo offers competitive income, benefits, and an excellent working environment.
