Groundskeeper (Temporary)

Nashville Zoo • Nashville, TN

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Groundskeeper plays a vital role in creating a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for guests. Responsibilities include maintaining the zoo’s outdoor spaces—including walkways, viewing areas, signage, and landscaping—ensuring they are always pristine and visitor-ready. This role also supports the zoo’s special events by helping prepare and maintain event spaces, contributing to a positive and memorable guest experience. This position is temporary and will end on January 3rd.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Minimum High School diploma or GED equivalent is required.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.
• Must be able to learn and remember tasks and processes, maintain focus and complete tasks independently.
• Responsible for making timely decisions in the context of a workflow and be able to professionally communicate with staff and guests.
• Must have the ability to complete tasks with speed in situations that ensure safety of staff, animals and guests.
• Required to remain alert and engaged while working.
• Also required to operate equipment and vehicles in a safe manner.
• Self-Motivation & Safety Awareness: Demonstrates initiative in completing tasks independently while prioritizing safety and maintaining high productivity standards.
• Professional Communication: Interacts courteously and effectively with guests, colleagues, and supervisors to support a positive zoo experience.
• Organizational Efficiency: Executes daily responsibilities in a structured, timely, and detail-oriented manner, even in dynamic outdoor environments.
• Equipment Operation & Safety: Proficient in the safe and effective use of a range of equipment—including hand tools, power tools, and light to heavy-duty machinery—required for groundskeeping and event support.
• Landscape & Grounds Maintenance Expertise: Skilled in maintaining lawns, gardens, pathways, and public areas through mowing, trimming, planting, and seasonal upkeep.
• Tool Stewardship: Uses assigned tools and equipment responsibly, ensuring proper care, storage, and routine maintenance to extend usability and performance.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate a daily commitment to Nashville Zoo’s mission and values.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance.
• Conducts Daily Grounds Inspections: Follows established checklists to identify safety hazards, cleanliness issues, or maintenance needs; promptly reports concerns to supervisory staff.
• Maintains Public Areas: Keeps walkways, viewing windows, signage, and outdoor guest spaces clean, clear of debris, and visually appealing throughout the day.
• Supports Special Events: Assists with setup and breakdown of event infrastructure including props, tents, signage, and crowd control barriers; ensures tasks are completed efficiently and meet event standards.
• Restocks Outdoor Supplies: Monitors and replenishes items such as waste bags, hand sanitizer stations, and guest-use materials in assigned zones.
• Provides Guest Assistance: Offers directional support and helps guests locate parking or navigate zoo grounds when needed, contributing to a positive visitor experience.
• Collaborates Across Departments: Assists with operational tasks such as unloading supplies (e.g., hay, feed), relocating furniture or equipment, and supporting custodial efforts in buildings and animal areas.
• Monitors Landscaping Needs: Helps maintain lawns, gardens, and plant beds by removing litter, reporting irrigation issues, and supporting seasonal planting or mulching efforts.
• Supports Animal Welfare Indirectly: Ensures that animal viewing areas remain clean and unobstructed, contributing to a safe and enriching environment for both animals and guests.
• Other duties, as assigned.

Benefits

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage – including medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you and your family healthy.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – confidential support services for mental, emotional, and financial well-being.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching – helping you build a secure future while you make a meaningful impact today.
• Generous paid time off and sick leave – because rest and recovery are vital.
• Exclusive zoo perks – enjoy discounts on park experiences, retail, and food services, plus complimentary membership benefits.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED