Job Description

Nashville Zoo at Grassmere

Position Title: Custodian

Department: Facilities

Supervisor: Grounds Manager

Position Status : Temporary Full time, non-exempt

Nashville Zoo Mission:

Nashville Zoo is dedicated to inspiring a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural world through conservation, innovation, and leadership. With a diverse collection of animals and a commitment to wildlife preservation, we provide engaging experiences for visitors of all ages.

Why Work with Us:

At the Nashville Zoo, we believe in taking care of our team just as well as we care for our animals. Full-time employees enjoy a robust benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and future:

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage – including medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you and your family healthy.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – confidential support services for mental, emotional, and financial well-being.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching – helping you build a secure future while you make a meaningful impact today.
• Generous paid time off and sick leave – because rest and recovery are vital.
• Exclusive zoo perks – enjoy discounts on park experiences, retail, and food services, plus complimentary membership benefits.
• A collaborative and inclusive culture – be part of a diverse team where your voice matters, your growth is nurtured, and collaboration thrives across all departments.
• AZA - accredited facility – Nashville Zoo is committed to top-tier animal care, ethics and global conservation efforts.

Description:

The Custodian plays a vital role in ensuring a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for guests, staff, and animals. This position is responsible for maintaining cleanliness across zoo facilities, including buildings, walkways, viewing areas, and restrooms.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Demonstrate a daily commitment to Nashville Zoo's mission and values.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance.
• Clean and disinfect assigned areas including restrooms, guest spaces, floors and surfaces.
• Maintain litter-free walkways and spotless viewing windows and signage.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support zoo operations.

Skills:

• Attention to Detail – Ensures thorough cleaning and maintenance of all assigned areas.
• Time Management – Completes tasks efficiently and meets deadlines, especially for event setups.
• Physical Capabilities – Capable of standing, walking, lifting, and performing manual tasks throughout the shift.
• Teamwork – Works collaboratively with other staff and departments to support zoo operations.
• Customer Service – Maintains a friendly and professional demeanor when interacting with guests.
• Adaptability – Responds effectively to changing priorities, weather conditions, and special requests.
• Basic Maintenance Knowledge – Familiarity with cleaning equipment, tools, and safe chemical usage.
• Organizational Skills – Keeps janitorial and storage areas neat and well-stocked.
• Communication Skills- Understands and follows instructions; communicates needs or issues clearly.

Education/ Experience:

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Minimum High School diploma or GED equivalent is required.
• Must have a valid driver's license.
• Prior janitorial, custodial and/or general housekeeping experience preferred, but not required

Physical Responsibilities:

• Must be able to learn and remember tasks and processes, maintain focus and complete tasks independently.
• Responsible for making timely decisions in the context of a workflow and be able to professionally communicate with staff and guests.
• Must have the ability to complete tasks with speed in situations that ensure safety of staff, animals and guests.
• Required to remain alert and engaged while working. Also required to operate equipment and vehicles in a safe manner.
• This role involves working both indoors in temperature-controlled settings and outdoors year-round in typical Tennessee weather, including heat, cold, rain, and humidity.
• Must be comfortable navigating uneven terrain and working in environments with exposure to dust, allergens, and changing weather conditions.
• Requires the ability to safely move across slippery surfaces, operate in confined or tight spaces, and handle hazardous or toxic materials following safety protocols.
• Regular lifting and carrying of materials up to 50 pounds is required.

Work Schedule:

• Work schedule may include early or late start times and working weekends and holidays as required to meet the zoo's operating needs.
• Temporary Full-time position, averaging 32-40 hours per week.
• Flexibility: Position may require flexibility in working hours to accommodate special events, emergencies, or animal care needs.
• Temporary assignment set to end on February 9, 2026.

Pre-employment requirements:

Nashville Zoo is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and maintains a drug-free work environment. All employment is at-will.

• All candidates are required to successfully complete a criminal background check and drug screening prior to hire.

• Pre-employment and annual tuberculosis (TB) screenings are a condition of continued employment.

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