Zoo Train Operator and Maintenance Worker – Variable Hour

Job Description:

Position Summary

Hello, we’re Metro! Metro is dedicated to shaping a better future for the greater Portland region. The work the people of Metro do every day benefits the lives of the people who live here, today, and tomorrow.
 
One of the highlights of a trip to the Oregon Zoo is riding on the Zoo Train! The Oregon Zoo is seeking enthusiastic individuals to join our team as variable hour Zoo Train Operator and Maintenance Worker. In this role, you will operate both diesel and steam powered trains, providing an unforgettable experience to our visitors. Your responsibilities will include not only operating the trains but supporting their maintenance, engaging with guests, and contributing to various services related to train operations. As part of the broader Maintenance Worker III classification, you will have the opportunity to complete more complex journey-level duties, such as parts fabrication and installation, as well as coordinate maintenance and construction responsibilities. This role offers a diverse range of responsibilities, including machining, mechanical, electrical, welding, painting, and more, ensuring the smooth operations of our trains and related facilities. Join us in creating memorable experiences while contributing to the upkeep of the Oregon Zoo!

As the Zoo Train Operator and Maintenance Worker you will:

• Operate diesel and steam powered locomotives; communicate with passengers and other zoo guests while in route regarding sites, history, activities, events, and project plans.
• Assist with and perform regular maintenance tasks on railroad equipment and associated railroad facility structures.    
• Operate a variety of heavy and light equipment, such as forklift or Skid Steer machines, hand and power tools necessary to complete job duties.
• Perform other guest service functions, such as tour narrating, ticket taking, emergency services support, and other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
 
Knowledge of

• a broad range of general maintenance practices associated with automotive service, carpentry, plumbing and painting trades.
• occupational hazards involved and the safety precautions necessary in the area of work assignment.

Skills to

• use hand tools and power tools applicable to the work.
• operate spike driver and tamping equipment for positions assigned to railroad track building and repair perform the essential functions of the position, including heavy manual labor for extended periods, often under inclement weather conditions, and lifting up to 50 lbs.

Ability to

• understand and follow oral and written instructions
• be meticulous in the cleanup of work areas within animal exhibit areas, to work around exotic and sometimes dangerous animals, and to react quickly to hazardous conditions
• establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees estimate and order materials necessary to complete assignments
• provide excellent customer service by meeting the needs and interacting with employees, volunteers, vendors, the public, and others encountered during the course of work in a courteous and professional manner
• establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with employees, volunteers, vendors, and others encountered during the course of work
• develop skills in operating a personal computer and software, radios, and cell phones
• develop skills in guest services communications and providing information about projects and plans as well as providing directions to Zoo locations
•  exhibit regular and predictable attendance
• work in a safe manner and follow safety policies, practices and procedures

DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
At Metro, we strive to cultivate diversity, advance equity, and practice inclusion in all of its work. This means attracting and empowering a workforce that is inclusive of a broad range of human qualities. Workplace diversity is both a moral imperative and a business strength, essential to providing quality support and services to our region. Metro’s goal is to hire, develop and retain highly skilled and talented individuals across all departments and programs who best reflect the diversity of our community.  
 
Learn more about Metro’s Diversity Action Plan

TO QUALIFY
We will consider any combination of relevant work experience, volunteering, education, and transferable skills as qualifying unless an item or section is labeled required. Please be clear and specific in your application materials on how your background is relevant.  

Minimum Qualifications

• Trade certification or equivalent and
• 5 years progressively responsible multi-skill, multi-trade experience such as required for mechanic, machinist, electrical, welding, and heavy equipment operator responsibilities comparable to the Zoo Railroad.
• Any combination of experience and training which provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for successful completion of the essential job duties.

Required

• Valid Driver’s license

Shift and schedule -  Schedules vary based on operational need, weather and events at the zoo, including school breaks, holidays, summer and the ZooLights season. These positions are considered to be variable hour, with no set schedule. This position is classified as variable hour. Variable hour employees cannot work more than 1,040 hours per year. 

If this statement is true for you, then you may be ineligible to apply
If you were terminated for cause during any employment with Metro, or resigned in lieu of termination, you may be ineligible for rehire for a minimum of 3 years.

SCREENING AND EVALUATION

The application packet: The application packet consists of the following documents. Please ensure that you upload   these documents in your online application. Make sure your application is complete, missing any part of these items could result in an incomplete application and will not be moved forward in the recruitment.

• A completed online application
• Complete answers to supplemental questions

The selection process: We expect to evaluate candidates for this recruitment as follows. The selection process is subject to change.

• Initial review of minimum qualifications
• In-depth evaluation of application materials to identify the most qualified candidates
• Consideration of top candidates/interviews
• Testing/assessments (if applicable)
• Reference check 
• Driving records check for finalist candidate 

REPRESENTATION 
This variable hour position is eligible for overtime and is represented by Liuna union. It is classified as a Maintenance Worker III.
 
Classification descriptions are typically written broadly and do not include the specific duties and responsibilities of the positions. View the classification description.
 
Questions?
Talent Acquisition Specialist: Megan Warneke
Email: megan.warneke@oregonmetro.gov