Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA) is a leader in animal care, wildlife conservation, and education. We are passionate about our commitment to excellence in support of our mission of Inspiring Communities to Save Wildlife for Future Generations.
DZCA honors our animals, staff, and guests by conducting ourselves at the highest level of integrity through our Core Actions -- Inspire Awe: Safety, Care, Connect, and by embracing our Core Values of: Welcoming, United, Curious, Courageous and Transformative in all that we do.
The Grounds Coordinator is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of pathways, hardscapes, landscaping materials, and essential equipment, ensuring the physical environment meets the highest standards of safety and functionality. In collaboration with the Grounds Manager, the Grounds Coordinator plays a key role in planning and executing projects, managing resources, and providing leadership and guidance to the Grounds team to ensure efficient operations and a superior guest experience.
Our team is made up of passionate and diverse professionals dedicated to providing excellent care for our animals while creating meaningful experiences for our guests. If you're excited to contribute your skills in a collaborative and innovative environment, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is the place for you!
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Team Leadership
- Supervise the Grounds team by assigning tasks, coordinating daily projects, and monitoring performance to ensure quality and efficiency.
- Foster a positive and collaborative work environment while promoting accountability and professional development.
- Ensure all operations are conducted safely and align with organizational standards and goals.
Grounds and Equipment Maintenance
- Oversee the maintenance and repair of pathways, hardscapes, and equipment to ensure cleanliness, safety, and functionality.
- Implement preventative maintenance schedules to proactively address potential issues and minimize downtime.
- Maintain the zoo’s physical environment to uphold safety standards and provide an exceptional guest experience.
Project and Material Management
- Assist the Grounds Manager with planning and executing grounds projects by coordinating timelines, allocating resources, and ensuring successful completion.
- Manage inventory of materials, tools, and supplies to ensure appropriate stock levels for operations.
- Oversee the procurement of high-quality materials and equipment while adhering to budgetary constraints and organizational policies.
Safety and Training
- Oversee and enforce comprehensive safety protocols for all grounds operations, ensuring compliance with organizational and regulatory standards.
- Train staff on proper equipment usage, maintenance procedures, and emergency response strategies to promote safety and preparedness.
- Lead critical initiatives, such as snow removal and waste management, to maintain the safety and functionality of zoo grounds while enhancing guest satisfaction.
Other Duties & Responsibilities
- Train volunteers and seasonal employees to assist with operations.
- Act as department lead in the absence of the Grounds Manager.
- Supports the evaluation, procurement, and budgeting of equipment, supplies, and materials. Acts as a good steward of DZCA’s resources.
- The nature of this position requires safeguarding against the release of confidential and proprietary information of DZCA.
- This position will interact with managers at all levels, staff members across the organization, and members of external organizations and the public.
- Other assistance, as designated by the Grounds Manager, to support the overall goals of the department and organization. DZCA retains the right to add or change duties and/or responsibilities.
Technical/Professional Requirements & Qualifications
- Completion or in pursuit of a high school degree
- Minimum of 2-3 years experience in grounds maintenance, and equipment operation with supervisory and project coordination experience strongly preferred, or any equivalent combination of experience, lived experience, and/or special skills.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Experienced in the repair of machines, tools, motor vehicle engines, and parts.
- Skilled in the operation of equipment such as Bobcat, front-end loader, high lift, tillers, trimmers, blowers, sprayers, and snow removal equipment. Knowledgeable in the safe operation of such equipment.
- Skilled in operating equipment used for turf and landscape maintenance.
- Ability to identify problems and provide adequate information, including alternative solutions regarding problematic situations to the supervisor.
- Knowledge of safety hazards and necessary safety precautions sufficient to be able to establish a safe work environment for self and others.
- Ability to care for and properly maintain DZCA property including but not limited to large and small equipment, and vehicles.
- Basic computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite are preferred.
- Requires organizational skills, written and oral communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to prioritize work and tasks. Requires adaptability to produce and meet deadlines in a fast-paced, multi-task, and changing environment, and the ability to work as part of a team.
Position Conditions
- Ability to pass a physical examination, background check, and pre-employment drug and alcohol screen.
- To support our operations, candidates must be at least 21 years of age with a valid driver's license and a clean driving record.
- Ability to lift to 50 lbs.
- Schedule Availability: Must be able to work a flexible schedule including weekdays, weekends, and holidays.
- Work Location: On campus.
Compensation
The range for this position is $25.40 - $30.12 (hourly).
A Truly Wild Workplace with Competitive Benefits
Join our team and enjoy a wide variety of great benefits, including:
- Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
- 403(b) Retirement Account with employer match
- Generous paid time off: vacation, sick leave, personal days, and holidays
- A Family DZCA Membership with discounted tickets to special events
- Concession and retail discounts, plus free parking
- And so much more!
Application Process and Timelines
Application deadline: February 9, 2026. Review of applications will begin immediately. DZCA reserves the right to close the position before this date.
Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected status or any other characteristic protected by law.
www.denverzoo.org
