Job Description
Job Description **Position Title: Zoological Park Maintainer - Horticulture Reports to: Buildings & Grounds Manager Buildings & Grounds Supervisors** About Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) WCS stands for wildlife and wild places. As the world’s premier wildlife conservation organization, WCS has a long track record of achieving innovative, impactful results at scale. We run field programs spanning 60 countries and the entire ocean. We build on a unique foundation: Our reach is global; we discover through best-in-class science; we protect through work on the ground with local and indigenous people; we inspire through our world-class zoos, aquarium, and education programs; and we leverage our resources through partnerships and powerful policy influence. Our more than 4,000 diverse, passionately committed team members in New York City and around the world work collectively to achieve our conservation mission. Position Objective: Maintain park grounds, landscaping, plants, and related facilities & equipment, and assist in other maintenance activities as directed in support of park appearance. Principal Responsibilities: Perform general grounds keeping, including snow removal, selective tree trimming, monitoring conditions, gardening, planting, cultivating, pruning, seeding, fertilizing, mulching, clean-up, bulb planting, dividing and transplanting, grass cutting, hedge trimming, weeding, and leaf removal. Clean up garden beds and paths, including litter and plant trimming removals. Operate trade tools such as a weed trimmer, hedge trimmer, leaf blower, etc. Assist in the maintenance and repair of buildings, enclosures, paths, benches, sidewalks, trees, plants, lawns, equipment, structures, and other facilities. Operate and maintain hand tools, power tools, and equipment, make operating adjustments to same, and report need for repairs and replacement. Perform various tasks in connection with the cleaning of building and grounds and painting of fixtures and equipment. This includes the use trade tools such as a Kaivac, high window washer, misters, and buffer. Operate vehicles in performance of work, including snow plow, fork lift, bobcat, and other WCS vehicles. Supervise subordinate employees, including temporary workers, organizing their work, instructing them in gardening techniques, and in the proper use and care of materials and equipment. Prepare reports and perform related record keeping tasks as required. Qualification Requirements Minimum Qualifications: Five years’ experience (preferred) in landscape maintenance, tree work, planting, cultivating, pruning, seeding, transplanting, bulb planting, mulching, watering, application of fertilizer, and basic gardening. Experience in the use, cleaning, and maintenance of equipment related to the position. Must successfully pass a background check. High school diploma or equivalent. Valid driver’s license (preferred). Ability and willingness to work weekends, holidays, evenings, special events, and overtime as the schedule demands. Ability to represent WCS in a professional manner and to establish and maintain positive, effective working relationships with employees, colleagues, and the general public. Ability to make sound decisions within WCS and NYA policies and procedures. Ability to respond to non-routine tasks and unexpected circumstances with sound judgment, integrity, safety awareness, professionalism, and reporting skill. Strong organizational skills, positive attitude, and ability to work as a team player. Physical Requirements: Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions, including heat, humidity, cold, snow, rain, and wind. Ability to perform work that might require manual dexterity in the safe use of hand tools and the operation of equipment used for this position. Ability to perform work that might require standing or walking for long periods of time, stooping, climbing, balancing, kneeling, bending, navigating uneven terrain, and lifting of objects or materials weighing up to 50 pounds. Equal Employment Opportunity Disclaimer WCS is an equal opportunity employer, and the organization complies with all employment and labor laws and regulations that prohibit discrimination in hiring and ensures that candidates from all backgrounds are fairly and consistently considered during the recruitment process. We are dedicated to hiring and engaging in a diverse workforce. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment and looking for future team members who share that same value. The organization provides equal employment opportunities for all qualified can