Lift/Rides Mechanic

Note: This is a full-time temporary position that is expected to end on October 9 2026, with potential to extend to a temporary or relief position depending on the needs of the organization.

Pay Range: To maintain internal equity, we have identified the starting range for this position at the Oakland Zoo as $27.65 - $35.85 per hour. An offer within this range will be determined by the experience and qualifications of a candidate and will be our best and final compensation offer, in alignment with Oakland Zoo's compensation philosophy.

Finalist candidates will need to complete a paid on-site working interview to be considered.

Position Summary

The Lift/Rides Mechanic plays a key role in enhancing accessibility at the Zoo for our guests and staff by assisting with the maintenance and repair of the Oakland Zoo’s aerial lifts. They provide regular maintenance and testing of mechanical and electrical systems and work with the Lift Manager to address incidents or system malfunctions. They demonstrate excellent judgement in all activities, proactive communication, and strong collaboration with Zoo staff and external vendors and contractors.

Essential Job Duties

• Assist the Lift Manager with daily testing, inspection, and necessary repairs of mechanical and electrical systems.
• Perform all routine and assigned maintenance per A.N.S.I., manufacturer, OSHA, IAAPA, ATSM, and Oakland Zoo Lift Department standards.
• Perform startup procedures upon qualification in rope dynamics and potential safety-related conditions.
• Document aerial tramway maintenance per the A.N.S.I. Code; participate in Gondola projects, inspections, procedures, and checklists.
• Use assigned tools, rigging equipment, ropeway and track components, oils, grease, and safety equipment in a safe and efficient manner.
• Assist in rope splicing, rope installation, and/or replacement.
• Assist contractors in performing their duties.
• Inspect, measure, change, rebuild, and adjust lift and rides components.
• Perform other related duties as required and assigned.

Supervisory Responsibility:

• None

Who you are:

• Minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience.
• High mechanical aptitude and basic knowledge/skill in mechanical and electrical trades.
• Able to install large and heavy components related to rides and aerial tramway maintenance.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently on mechanical and electrical systems related to aerial tramway and ride structures.
• Able and willing to learn aerial systems (Gondola and Sky Ride) as well as other mechanical rides in The Zoo.
• Able to read complex manuals and write routine reports in English.
• High school diploma or G.E.D.
• Valid Class C Driver’s License with a clean DMV record (able to obtain authorization to drive from Zoo’s insurance provider).
• Able to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Bonus if you have:

• Trade school experience.
• Aerial tramway experience – operations or maintenance.
• Previous lift maintenance or transportation industry experience.
• Experience with rides maintenance.
• Experience with Asset Essentials.
• Experience using Auto Service Excel.
• Industry certifications (e.g., NDT Level 1, 2, or 3; AIMS Level 1, 2, or 3; Welding/Fabrication).

Work Environment - Environmental or atmospheric conditions commonly associated with the performance of the functions of this job.

• Work in outdoor environments in various weather conditions, on towers and at heights of up to 100 feet.
• Occasional work in animal areas.

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 bend and twist, lift and carry 100 lbs., stand, kneel, sit, walk, bend, stoop and speak regularly for 8-hour shifts.
• Able to work on uneven and loose terrain, hard surfaces, and sloped surfaces.
• Able to climb towers and work at heights of up to 100 feet.

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

• Collaboration – builds trusting relationships with both internal and external stakeholders across our organization and community-wide and approaches differences of opinion with curiosity and humility.
• Communication – communicates respectfully and effectively with stakeholders across identities, both verbally and in writing.
• Dependability – demonstrates trustworthiness and reliability, including while working with little or no direct supervision.
• Growth-Oriented – inspired to perform well by the chance to take on more responsibility.
• Impact – inspired to contribute to the success of a project or the organization.
• Inclusive Culture – fosters a culture of mutual respect, transparency, collaboration, and belonging which allows all employees to feel appreciated, included, and valued.
• Organization – strong attention to detail and able to build and/or maintain efficient systems.
• Passion – wholeheartedly believes in, represents, and models Oakland Zoo’s mission and PRIDE values at all times.
• Self-motivated – effectively navigates multiple, simultaneous tasks with excellent attention to detail and deadlines. Enthusiastically identifies and approaches opportunities without regular supervision.
• 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 Oakland Zoo and able to put those into practice by finding creative and resourceful ways to develop sustainable practices within your role and department.

Benefits

Oakland Zoo offers a comprehensive benefits package, including Health insurance, Dental insurance, Vision insurance, Flexible spending account, Retirement plan, Paid time off, Employee Assistance Program, and Zoo Membership options.