About the position
The Zoo Vehicle Machinery Operator at Milwaukee County Zoo is a full-time position responsible for operating all vehicles necessary for the maintenance of zoo buildings and grounds. This role involves a variety of tasks including hauling items such as animals, food, and plants, as well as erecting, maintaining, and repairing fences, pavement signs, and exhibits. The operator will also lead seasonal staff, providing training and ensuring that tasks are completed efficiently and effectively. This position serves as a progression from the full-time Grounds Worker role, requiring the operator to be proficient in all tasks typically performed by grounds workers. In addition to vehicle operation, the Zoo Vehicle Machinery Operator will be involved in various operational duties such as the removal of animal waste, cleaning of sewers and moats, street and parking lot sweeping, and the delivery of animal food and bedding. The operator will also be responsible for snow plowing, transporting animals and their remains, and managing waste removal. The role requires a hands-on approach to maintenance, including servicing large equipment, repairing small engines, and performing tasks such as painting, welding, and soil preparation. The operator must demonstrate the ability to safely operate a range of equipment including sweepers, skid loaders, front end loaders, and more. Physical demands include the ability to lift and carry up to 75 lbs. The position requires a valid Wisconsin Driver's License and a Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with no air brake restriction. Preferred qualifications include a Class A CDL and pesticide certification. The role is integral to maintaining the zoo's operations and ensuring a clean and safe environment for both animals and visitors.
Responsibilities
- Operate all zoo vehicles needed to maintain zoo buildings and grounds.
- Haul a variety of items from animals to food and plants.
- Erect, maintain, and repair fences, pavement signs, and exhibits.
- Lead seasonal staff daily and assist in training.
- Remove animal waste and leaf waste, clean sewers and moats, and sweep streets and parking lots.
- Deliver animal food and bedding, and clean products.
- Perform snow plowing and transportation of animals and remains.
- Transport and remove trash and browse using trailers.
- Coordinate, lead, and organize seasonal workers to complete assigned tasks.
- Maintain and service large equipment, repair small engines and equipment, and perform painting and welding tasks.
- Haul and install large plant material, perform soil and turf preparation, and repair props in animal yards and exhibits.
- Perform various labor tasks including trenching, digging, raking, sweeping, vacuuming, pressure washing, mowing grass, and constructing roadways.
Requirements
- Current residency within the State of Wisconsin required.
- Valid Wisconsin Driver's License required.
- High School Diploma or GED equivalency required.
- One (1) year or more work experience in operating a wide variety of equipment and machinery required.
- Valid Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with no air brake restriction required at the time of application.
Nice-to-haves
- Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) preferred.
- WDATCP Category 3.0 (Turf & Landscape) pesticide certification preferred.
Benefits
- Competitive benefit package offered by Milwaukee County.
- Equal Opportunity Employer commitment.
