OPS Associate Laborer- Refuge Facility- Springfield, CO.

OPS Associate Laborer – Refuge- Springfield, Co. 81073

*Must reside with-in the Springfield, Co. Area

Status: Exempt Full-Time – Mid-Level

Salary: Annual- Starting at $60,000 – $75,000 (DOE)

Benefits: After 60 Days Medical, Dental, and Vision offered

Primary Function:  Laborer/Heavy Equipment Operation/Construction

Direct Supervisor: Director of Refuge Facility

Location: Springfield, CO. 81073

Posted: Until Filled

Organization Overview:

Our Non-Profit Organization has a positive mission and team environment!

If you have you have a strong work ethic, a passion to contribute to a great cause, and experience with grounds maintenance, then apply for our Operations Associate position today. 

The Wild Animal Refuge is a place where motivated individuals can immerse themselves into a dedicated community, working side by side to provide a safe-haven for rescued animals to live out the rest of their lives with dignity and respect. We are so much more than a workplace. We are a team committed to service, to bettering our communities, and the world.

Job Summary:

Laborer 40% Heavy Equipment Operation 20% Welding 10% Construction 20% 

Perform other Job Duties as assigned 10%

With the guidance and under supervision of the Director of Operations and Executive Director, will organize, execute all functions of The Wild Animal Refuge, including, the areas of safety, maintenance, grounds, custodial, operations, transportation, sustainability, long-term facility care, welding, project construction, building and repair projects. Perform other related job duties as assigned. 

 Minimum Job Requirements:

• 2-4 years of work experience in related field preferred


• Some college or vocational training preferred but not required


• CDL is preferred but not required


• Strong written and verbal communication skills

Required/Other Qualifications:

• Possess a valid Colorado driver’s license and have a satisfactory driving record


• Must already reside locally to the Springfield, Co. area


• Solid understanding of mechanical, operating, and electrical functions


• Knowledgeable with heavy equipment and maintenance


• Ability to liaise with other departments to achieve a common goal


• Flexible to working some evenings and weekends (Project Construction Events)

Functions/Job Duties: (including but not limited to):

• Maintenance and operations of The Wild Sanctuary grounds to include custodial, maintenance, transportation, facility operations and repair projects


• Evaluates daily work orders and prioritizes as needed


• Maintenance and routine care for all heavy equipment


• Driving, operating, and transporting Heavy Equipment, Heavy Haul, Belly Dump as needed


• Communicates matters involving facilities and grounds in a current and timely manner with the Director of Operations and Executive Director


• Provide professional and effective project management, replacement planning, mechanical work, welding, general plumbing


• Exercising sound independent judgement within general policy guidelines


• Perform light excavation, using shovel, picks, and other equipment and tools to dig trenches and level ground


• Concrete project work including fencing


• Able to lift 75lbs or more, physical abilities needed to complete the job: lifting and carrying heavy materials such as; furniture, equipment, and tools. Some tasks involve; climbing, crawling, and stooping to reach. Need to be able to; pull, push or manipulate heavy objects against resistance, work outdoors in temperature extremes and inclement weather. This work is performed in outdoor, shop, and office settings.


• Performing seasonal cleaning and/or routine maintenance


• Remove snow in winter conditions and keep outdoor areas safe during bad weather, including spreading deicer on walkways and steps


• Able to maintain confidentiality; demonstrates sound judgement and discretion

Personal Characteristics:

• Self-motivated, productive, and results-oriented


• Keeping an organized and tidy workspace


• Flexible, ability to adapt to change and shifting priorities and to work simultaneously on a variety of complex projects


• Teamwork orientated with ability to work independently


• Patient, a good listener, and a heart for animals


• Desire to learn, grow, and be coached


• Contribute to a positive culture

As you can see, we are looking for people who possess strong foundational skills with an attitude to succeed. If you are looking for a challenging and a rewarding service opportunity with real purpose, you have found the right opportunity! 

Clear Focus:

The above Job Description is intended to describe the general duties/nature of the level of work being performed by the Operations Associate. This Job Description is not to be constructed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, and skills required. Job Descriptions are somewhat fluid and will change depending on the Organization’s strategic direction and overall objectives accordingly.

Background Check Statement: 

Approval for Hiring is contingent upon successfully passing a background check prior to your Hiring/Acceptance/Offer. This background check does not report to any credit bureau and no impact will be seen on the applicants side. This process helps the Company screen for any past background experiences that pose a threat or a discrepancy to the Organization, as TWAS does not hire any violent offenders, or individuals that have been charged criminally involving endangering/threating/hurting children and/or animals. By applying you are authorizing the The Wild Animal Sanctuary to perform this background check.

EEOC Statement:

Our Non-Profit organization, "The Wild Animal Sanctuary" is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, and veteran or disability status.