Skilled Craftsperson - Carpenter [Full-Time]

San Antonio Zoo•San Antonio, TX

27d•Onsite

About The Position

Choosing where to grow your career has a major impact on your professional and personal life, so it's equally important you know that the place you choose to work at will support and guide you. With a diversity of passionate people, San Antonio Zoo is a place where you can collaborate with others securing a future for wildlife. The Carpenter is responsible for a variety of tasks related to carpentry. This work is accomplished using a variety of skilled carpentry techniques. Duties include rough or finished work following rough sketches, blueprints, or verbal instructions. Work may be inspected for compliance with instructions. Normal repairs are usually made without immediate supervision or close review. The Carpenter reports to the Maintenance Supervisor and/or Superintendent. As a Carpenter, you will have the opportunity to tap into your curiosity and collaborate with some of the most innovative and diverse people in San Antonio. Here, you will make an impact by: Performing skilled carpentry work in the construction, maintenance, and repair of zoo buildings, animal habitats, exhibits, fences, decking, and guest areas. Reading and interpreting blueprints, sketches, and specifications to plan and complete construction and repair projects accurately. Fabricating, assembling, and installing wood, metal, and composite materials using appropriate tools and techniques. Measuring, cutting, shaping, and joining materials with precision to ensure proper fit and finish. Performing finish carpentry, including trim work, cabinetry, and detailed woodworking for both guest-facing and behind-the-scenes areas. Inspecting completed work for structural integrity, durability, and safety compliance. Collaborating with designers, exhibit fabricators, maintenance teams, and animal care staff to complete construction and renovation projects that align with animal welfare and safety standards. Operating power tools, hand tools, and woodworking machinery safely and efficiently, in compliance with all zoo and OSHA safety regulations. Assisting with event and exhibit setup, including temporary installations and scenic construction as needed. Maintaining tools, equipment, and workspaces in clean and safe operating condition. Selecting and estimating appropriate materials and supplies for projects while minimizing waste. Conducting preventative maintenance on wooden structures, furniture, and enclosures to extend lifespan and maintain appearance. Ensuring work areas are properly secured and safe for guests, staff, and animals during and after construction activities. Working both independently and collaboratively to meet project deadlines while maintaining high craftsmanship standards. Upholds all company policies as outlined in the Zoo Standard Operating Procedures, SA Zoo Team Member Handbook, and Code of Business Conduct. Consistently exhibit an attitude of service inside and outside of the zoo, showing hospitality to all. Be fully committed to the mission of San Antonio Zoo to create awareness that inspires action to care for the wild world we steward and animals we protect.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required; completion of a recognized apprenticeship program or trade certification in carpentry preferred.
Minimum of two (2) years of professional carpentry experience, preferably in a commercial, construction, or facilities maintenance environment.
Strong knowledge of carpentry methods, materials, tools, and equipment used in both rough and finish work.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, sketches, schematics, and construction documents accurately.
Proficiency with hand tools, power tools, woodworking machines, and equipment used in carpentry and fabrication.
Familiarity with building codes, safety regulations, and structural standards applicable to construction and repair work.
Experience working with a variety of materials, including wood, metal, composites, plastics, and fasteners.
Basic knowledge of related trades such as masonry, painting, or welding is a plus.
Ability to estimate materials, costs, and project timelines effectively.
Must be able to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds on a regular basis.
Ability to work in various environmental conditions, including outdoor weather, confined spaces, and elevated areas.
Excellent attention to detail and commitment to high-quality craftsmanship.
Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently or collaboratively as part of a team.
Must be able to communicate effectively and professionally with colleagues across multiple departments.
Must be 18 years of age or older with a clean driving record for vehicle operation.
Successful candidates must complete a pre-employment National Sex Offender Search, Criminal Background Check, and Drug Screen.
We enjoy year-round operation for all staff - must be available days, nights, weekends, holidays, and occasional after-hour assignments as needed.

Nice To Haves

Basic knowledge of related trades such as masonry, painting, or welding is a plus.

Responsibilities

Performing skilled carpentry work in the construction, maintenance, and repair of zoo buildings, animal habitats, exhibits, fences, decking, and guest areas.
Reading and interpreting blueprints, sketches, and specifications to plan and complete construction and repair projects accurately.
Fabricating, assembling, and installing wood, metal, and composite materials using appropriate tools and techniques.
Measuring, cutting, shaping, and joining materials with precision to ensure proper fit and finish.
Performing finish carpentry, including trim work, cabinetry, and detailed woodworking for both guest-facing and behind-the-scenes areas.
Inspecting completed work for structural integrity, durability, and safety compliance.
Collaborating with designers, exhibit fabricators, maintenance teams, and animal care staff to complete construction and renovation projects that align with animal welfare and safety standards.
Operating power tools, hand tools, and woodworking machinery safely and efficiently, in compliance with all zoo and OSHA safety regulations.
Assisting with event and exhibit setup, including temporary installations and scenic construction as needed.
Maintaining tools, equipment, and workspaces in clean and safe operating condition.
Selecting and estimating appropriate materials and supplies for projects while minimizing waste.
Conducting preventative maintenance on wooden structures, furniture, and enclosures to extend lifespan and maintain appearance.
Ensuring work areas are properly secured and safe for guests, staff, and animals during and after construction activities.
Working both independently and collaboratively to meet project deadlines while maintaining high craftsmanship standards.
Upholds all company policies as outlined in the Zoo Standard Operating Procedures, SA Zoo Team Member Handbook, and Code of Business Conduct.
Consistently exhibit an attitude of service inside and outside of the zoo, showing hospitality to all.
Be fully committed to the mission of San Antonio Zoo to create awareness that inspires action to care for the wild world we steward and animals we protect.
Performs other work-related duties as required and assigned.