About the position
The Descanso Railroad Technician is a vital role within the maintenance department of Descanso Gardens, responsible for the care, maintenance, and interpretation of the mechanical aspects of the model train garden. This full-time position requires a commitment of 40 hours weekly and involves significant interaction with the public, necessitating a strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail. The technician will maintain a rigorous schedule of setup, maintenance, and preparation to ensure smooth operation throughout the day. The role demands dexterity, balance, and the ability to operate from ladders, as well as a deft touch in handling the delicate mechanics of model trains. As an on-site operator, the technician serves as an ambassador for the Gardens, engaging with both adults and children during high visitation periods. The position requires working weekends and holidays, and possibly evenings, depending on the organization's needs. Daily responsibilities include cleaning and maintaining model train tracks, performing light repairs, and ensuring the cleanliness of the hardscape in the Descanso Railroad garden. The technician will also be responsible for answering questions from visitors, leading staff and volunteer training, and monitoring model trains to identify and implement operational improvements. The technician must be proactive in addressing wildlife issues and responding to inclement weather that may affect the train collection and garden infrastructure. Safety is paramount, and the technician is expected to use personal protective equipment (PPE) in accordance with OSHA standards and maintain a clean and safe work environment. This role is essential for the enjoyment and education of visitors to Descanso Gardens, ensuring that the model train garden operates smoothly and effectively.
Responsibilities
- Responsible for the daily cleaning and maintenance of model train tracks, including blowing, removing obstacles, and keeping tracks clean.
- Perform light sanding and cleaning of tracks with alcohol as needed.
- Maintain, clean, and make small repairs to model trains, including regular lubrication and inspection for wear and alignment.
- Rerail derailed trains and determine and correct the cause of derailments.
- Regularly inspect wheels, contact feet, axles, and couplers of model trains.
- Daily switching of engines to avoid overheating.
- Maintain cleanliness of the hardscape in the Descanso Railroad garden, including removing spider webs and debris from posts and trestles.
- Answer questions and provide information on the installation, function, and maintenance of the display area, ticket sales, hours of operation, events, and narratives associated with the exhibit.
- Lead staff and volunteer training on matters pertaining to the Descanso Railroad.
- Monitor model trains and proactively identify and implement improvements to regular operations.
- Assist with the installation of seasonal additions and new elements to the model train garden as appropriate.
- Monitor for wildlife issues and respond appropriately to inclement weather that may compromise the train collection and garden infrastructure.
Requirements
- Mid-level mechanical knowledge and experience operating model trains preferred.
- Strong physical ability to perform multiple tasks requiring physical dexterity.
- Excellent personal skills and ability to interact with the public.
Benefits
- Competitive hourly rate of up to $19.50 per hour.
- Opportunity to work in a beautiful garden environment.
- Engagement with the public and educational opportunities.
