Grounds - Groundskeeper (Seasonal)

BASIC FUNCTION:            

This position contributes to the success of Brookfield Zoo Chicago (“BZC”) by performing routine and standard Grounds duties and functions, such as park clean-up, paper picking, lawn mowing, waste removal, mulching, etc., with supervision in accordance with routine operating procedures in order to contribute to the cleanliness, beauty, and aesthetics of the park to meet operating needs and provide an exceptional guest experience. 

This is a seasonal union hourly position, grade U710 with a pay rate of $15.00 per hour. Please see Benefits Summary section below the job description information.

Brookfield Zoo is open 363 days a year including weekends and holidays.  The timeframe for this position is typically April - December.  The work schedule for this position typically consists of 5 days/40 hours per week. Seasonal Groundskeepers are assigned to work an early shift schedule or a late shift schedule.  The early shift is typically from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.  The late shift is typically from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the spring/fall and from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. during the summer.  For special events that take place at various times throughout the year, the work schedule is typically 12:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.  Scheduled days off for all shifts are typically Friday/Saturday or Sunday/Monday.  Scheduled shifts are assigned based on the needs of the operation.

PRIMARY JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Seasonal groundskeepers are expected to perform a variety of duties that may include any or all of the following.  Specific assignments will vary depending upon the nature of the work performed and/or specific area(s) or tasks assigned.

1. *Performs general park cleaning duties as directed by supervisor, including collection of garbage and recyclable materials, grounds clean up, paper picking, and/or washing garbage cans.
2. *Assists in horticultural tasks as directed, including mowing lawns, watering, weeding, mulching, planting, and other horticultural duties as assigned. 
3. *Assists in grounds maintenance tasks including sweeping, raking; blowing; paper picking; repair of sentinels, seating benches and other small repairs as assigned; cleaning out drain inlets and moats; mulching pathways; patching roads; and/or other maintenance tasks as assigned.
4. *Properly operates and maintains assigned equipment including lawn mowers, blowers, weed whips, small tractors, hand tools, and other equipment as required.
5. *Observes standard safety procedures and the use of safety equipment.  Inspects work areas for safety hazards and reports such to supervisor.
6. *Works cooperatively with others to achieve departmental and BZC goals.  Advises supervisor of client needs.  Attends meetings as assigned.
7. *Informs and assists guests in a courteous and welcoming manner.  Maintains an awareness of park schedules and activities in order to provide information to the public as necessary.
8. *Assures work, equipment, work areas, and self-represent BZC in a safe, clean, professional and orderly manner at all times.
9. Other related duties as assigned.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS AND SPECIFICATIONS:

• Minimum 16 years of age.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills required.
• Must be reliable and able and willing to work non-standard hours such as weekends and holidays.
• Seasonal Groundskeepers must supply their own steel-toed work boots, which must be worn at all times when working.

DESIRABLE/PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or (GED) equivalent preferred.
• Previous groundskeeping or horticultural experience desirable.
• Multi-lingual ability, Spanish fluency a plus.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

This job description outlines the primary job duties, responsibilities, and requirements of the Seasonal Groundskeeper classification.  It is not intended to be all-inclusive or to be a listing of every job duty an incumbent may ever be called upon to perform.  Incumbent must learn BCZ and department operations and procedures, the park physical layout, and the Grounds work areas.  The Seasonal Groundskeeper position requires a flexible, dependable, motivated, and results-oriented individual.  Incumbents must be able to work under pressure, effectively handle emergent issues, and deal effectively with other staff in a tactful and professional manner.  Incumbents are expected to gain a clear understanding of BZC mission, vision and values and to incorporate this into daily work performance.  Must support the mission and vision of BZC as a conservation organization and demonstrate the values of cooperation, responsibility, and involvement. 

Please note that portions of our recruitment and selection process may involve the support of AI tools to help ensure efficiency and consistency.