Volunteer Elephant Conservation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Employment Status: Full-Time

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Pay Rate: $15.93/hr - $19.91/hr

Department: Grounds

Reports to: Manager of Grounds 

Supervisory Responsibility: Direct (0); Indirect (12)

Primary Work Location: Zoo setting both indoors and outdoors.

The Lead Grounds and Exhibits Technician primarily maintains Zoo Grounds and the elephant and rhinoceros exhibits and their environments. This position works closely with the Grounds/ Exhibits Manager and elephant, rhino teams to maintain the overall safety and appearance of the zoo and exhibits.

Experience: One (3) year working in formal landscape/grounds maintenance work or equivalent combination of education and experience to successfully perform the essential duties of the job. At least six (6) months of experience in a lead role. 

Education: High school diploma or equivalent

Certification: Requires a valid Service Technician license/ID card for chemical, pesticide, and herbicide applications. Valid Oklahoma driver's license or ability to obtain one within thirty (30) days of hire and pass driver's history check

Knowledge

• Exhibits, grounds, maintenance tasks and repairs
• Troubleshoots, diagnoses, and repairs commercial irrigation systems, including lines, valves, heads, and controllers.
• Strong understanding of groundskeeping safety standards, chemical/material handling (SDS), and the proper operation of departmental tools and equipment.
• General computer operation and basic writing methods
• Policies, practices, and procedures of the Oklahoma City Zoo and assigned department
• Recordkeeping and preparation of reports and technical correspondence
• Interpersonal communication principles
• Organization and time management principles
• Sensory awareness, including eyesight, hearing, and hand dexterity

Skills

• Computer use and written communication
• Recordkeeping and documentation
• Organization and task prioritization
• Interpersonal communication

Abilities

• Work safely around animals
• Deliver clear, supportive instructions and serve as a reliable, positive bridge between management and the hands-on team.
• Apply safe work methods, including hazard recognition and use of safety equipment
• Work with staff, volunteers, professional colleagues, and the public
• Operate hand and power tools
• Work in environments with interruptions and changing priorities
• Work flexible schedules, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and emergencies
• Drive within the Oklahoma City area in varied conditions

Physical Demands

• Walk, sit and stand for extended periods of time.
• Independently push, lift, and carry up to 25 lbs, with assistance.
• Bend, stoop, kneel, and move intermittently throughout the day.
• Exposure to fumes, odors, dust, moving mechanical parts, and vehicles.
• Exposure to extreme weather conditions, such as heat, cold, rain, snow and ice. 
• Exposure to potentially dangerous animals.

Other: This position is subject to pre-employment and/or periodic background checks and drug testing. First consideration will be given to applicants who apply on or before 07/29/2026 by 5pm. 

About Us

Oklahoma City is one of the fastest-growing metros in the United States and is the 20th largest city in the nation. For nearly two decades our residents have continually invested in our community to make it a place people can find belonging, visit and call home. Our employees are at the heart of those investments-delivering essential services our residents expect and creating a strong and thriving city for all people. Visit Oklahoma City--A Great Place to Live and Work! to learn more about our city.

The Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Garden connects people with our world's vanishing wildlife and wild places to inspire conservation action. We're  seeking candidates who are passionate about the planet and all that inhabit it. Join our team of hardworking experts and get ready for a career that you're wild about! To learn more about the Oklahoma City Zoo and our conservation efforts, please visit www.okczoo.org.