Groundskeeper

Position Title : Groundskeeper Department : Facilities Supervisor : Grounds Manager Nashville Zoo Mission : Nashville Zoo is dedicated to inspiring a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural world through conservation, innovation, and leadership. With a diverse collection of animals and a commitment to wildlife preservation, we provide engaging experiences for visitors of all ages. Why Work with Us : At the Nashville Zoo, we believe in taking care of our team just as well as we care for our animals. Full-time employees enjoy a robust benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and future : 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. A collaborative and inclusive culture – be part of a diverse team where your voice matters, your growth is nurtured, and collaboration thrives across all departments. AZA - accredited facility – Nashville Zoo is committed to top-tier animal care, ethics and global conservation efforts. Description : 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. Duties and 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. Skills : 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. Education / Experience : Must be at least 18 years old. Minimum High School diploma or GED equivalent is required. Must have a valid driver’s license. Physical Responsibilities : 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. This role involves working both indoors in temperature-controlled settings and outdoors year-round in typical Tennessee weather, including heat, cold, rain, and humidity. Must be comfortable navigating uneven terrain and working in environments with exposure to dust, allergens, and changing weather conditions. Requires the ability to safely move across slippery surfaces, operate in confined or tight spaces, and handle hazardous or toxic materials following safety protocols. Regular lifting and carrying of materials up to 25 pounds is required. Work Schedule : Work schedule may include early or late start / end times and working weekends and holidays as required to meet the zoo’s operating needs. Full-time position, averaging 40 hours per week. Flexibility : Position may require flexibility in working hours to accommodate special events, emergencies, or animal care needs. Pre-employment requirements : Nashville Zoo is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and maintains a drug-free work environment. All employment is at-will. All candidates are required to successfully complete a criminal background check and drug screening prior to hire. Pre-employment and annual tuberculosis (TB) screenings are a condition of continued employment. Employment Type : Full Time Years Experience : 1 - 3 years Salary : $16 Hourly Bonus / Commission : No