Note: This is a part-time, seasonal position that is expected to work 20 - 28 hours/week starting on June 15 2026. It is expected to end of August 9 2026, with potential to extend depending on the needs of the organization. We are looking to hire 2 people for this position.

Pay rate: To maintain internal equity, we have identified the pay rate for this position at the Oakland Zoo as $22.07 per hour, in alignment with Oakland Zoo’s compensation philosophy. An offer at this pay rate will be our best and final compensation offer.

Position Summary

Custodians play a vital role in making the Zoo a pleasant and enjoyable place for our staff and guests by carefully maintaining the Zoo Grounds and Facilities. They provide thoughtful and responsive customer service to internal (i.e., co-workers) and external (vendors, park visitors, contractors, etc.) guests while tending to their assigned areas.

Essential Job Duties

• Clean and maintain areas including restrooms, offices, and common spaces by wiping surfaces, mopping, vacuuming, dusting, cleaning windows, and restocking supplies.
• Handle waste and supplies by emptying trash and recycling bins, breaking down boxes, safely using cleaning chemicals, and loading, unloading, and distributing materials as needed.
• Support building operations by moving furniture, servicing high-traffic areas, responding quickly to special cleaning requests, and assisting with general utility work.
• Maintain a safe working environment and report unsafe conditions to supervisor.
• Performs other related duties as required and assigned.

Who You Are

• Able to safely operate powered equipment normally found in custodial operations
• Able to work around members of the public
• Able to follow cleaning schedules
• Able to read and follow label instructions on chemicals/cleaning materials, operating instructions on powered equipment
• Able to work on weekends and holidays

Bonus if you

• Have 1 or more years of custodial experience
• Possess knowledge of total hard floor care and carpet care
• Have knowledge of general office maintenance
• Valid Driver’s License and good driving record (ability to obtain authorization from the Zoo’s Insurance Carrier)

Knowledge, Skills, and Qualities– May be representative, but not all-inclusive, of those knowledge, skills and abilities commonly associated with this position.

• Organization – strong attention to details and able to build and/or maintain efficient systems
• Inclusive Culture - fosters a culture of mutual respect, transparency, collaboration and belonging which allows all employees to feel appreciated, included, and valued.
• Passion – wholeheartedly believes in, represents, and models Oakland Zoo’s mission and PRIDE values at all times
• Wildlife Aware - understands mission to support the conservation and welfare of animals at The Zoo, locally and globally. This is demonstrated by a willingness/passion to reflect this mission in all actions and to continue to learn how to take action for wildlife
• Sustainability – oriented toward the mission and values of the Oakland Zoo and able to put those into practice by finding creative and resourceful ways to develop sustainable practices within your role and department

Work Environment Work will be a mixture of indoor and outdoor environments and may involve traversing uneven terrain and working in various weather conditions.

Physical Considerations- The physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Able to lift and carry objects weighing 50 pounds or more
• Able to bend and twist, lift, stand, kneel, sit, walk, bend, stoop, and speak regularly and for 8-hour shifts
• Able to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Benefits

Oakland Zoo offers part-time and seasonal employees a valuable benefits package, including an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Paid Sick Time, optional 403b Retirement Plan, and discounted Zoo Membership options. They also have access to various perks, discounts, and programs to enhance their overall experience.