Mechanic (Full Time)

The mechanic is responsible for inspecting, maintaining, and repairing Zoo amusement rides, transport systems, and vehicles to ensure safe and efficient operation. The mechanic performs routine and preventative maintenance, troubleshoots mechanical issues, and ensures compliance with all relevant safety standards and regulations. Essential Job Functions: Perform daily, weekly, and monthly inspections of all zoo rides, trams, trains, and vehicles to ensure proper operation and safety compliance. Conduct preventative maintenance on amusement rides, zoo transport systems (electric train and trams), and general zoo vehicles (utility carts, maintenance trucks, heavy equipment, etc.). Diagnose mechanical issues and perform minor repairs in a timely and effective manner. Maintain accurate records of inspections, maintenance tasks, repairs, and parts used. Collaborate with ride operators, facilities staff, and zoo management to schedule and prioritize maintenance tasks. Monitor and maintain proper fluid levels, tire pressures, and mechanical functions for all zoo vehicles. Assist with seasonal ride setup and breakdown as needed. Ensure compliance with all relevant safety standards, codes, and regulations (including ASTM, OSHA, and state amusement ride safety laws). Respond to urgent maintenance issues to minimize ride or vehicle downtime. Keep workspaces clean, organized, and safe. Minimum Education and Experience: High school diploma or equivalent. 2+ years of experience in mechanical maintenance, ideally in a zoo, theme park, or similar environment. Strong knowledge of mechanical systems, hydraulics, pneumatics, and electrical components. Ability to read technical manuals, blueprints, and schematic diagrams. Preferred Education and Experience: Related technical school or vocational training. Commercial Driver's License (CDL). Familiarity with amusement ride maintenance and safety inspection procedures. Competencies: Attention to Detail. Critical Thinking. Equipment Operation. Hand Tool Proficiency. Maintenance Planning & Scheduling. Problem Solving/Analysis. Safety Awareness. Technical and Mechanical Acumen. Time Management. Written/Verbal/Oral Communication. Supervisory Responsibility: This position has no direct reports. Reporting Structure: Reports to Maintenance Manager. Position Type/Expected Hours of Work: Full-time positions are defined as positions scheduled to work approximately 40 hours a week. Scheduling is at the discretion of the manager. This position is considered non-exempt under the federal and state wage and hour laws. Scheduling Availability Requirements: Position regularly requires flexible hours including weekdays, holidays, and weekends including early morning, and daytime. Occasional evening hours may be required. Work Environment: While performing the duties of the job, the employee will primarily work in outdoor settings (Zoo grounds). When outdoors this position is required to work in various weather conditions including rain, humidity, and extreme heat or cold. Physical Demands : The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. This position requires frequent standing/walking/bending/kneeling and will often move or lift objects up to 50 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Other Duties: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice. Other Requirements: 21 years or older. Clear background check. Clear drug screening. Valid driver's license. Clear MVR screening. Proof of current automobile insurance. Benefits & Perks The Memphis Zoo has a comprehensive benefits and employee perks package. Please see our Memphis Zoo Careers page for details. EEOC and Inclusion Statement: The Memphis Zoo believes that human diversity is as important as the biodiversity we seek to conserve. World-class zoos are comprised of world-class team members representing a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We value a diverse workplace and strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, and veterans to apply. The Memphis Zoo is an equal-opportunity employer. Applicants will not be discriminated against because of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, citizenship status, disability, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, medical condition, or any protected category prohibited by local, state or federal laws. If you need to request any accommodations for the interview or hiring process, please let the Human Resources team (HR) know. HR can be contacted at .... The Memphis Zoo participates in E-Verify and is an EEO/ADA/Veteran employer. All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment screening. Memphis Zoo is a drug-free workplace. Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time. How to Apply: Applications should be submitted via the Memphis Zoo Careers page. Please note that any other application submissions will not be considered. www.memphiszoo.org/careers .