Maintenance Assistant II

PARKS TACOMA is an independent park district in Pierce County, Washington, proudly accredited by both the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) & the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA). As a leader in promoting a healthy, sustainable community, Parks Tacoma manages a diverse range of facilities that provide our communities with exceptional recreational opportunities—from local neighborhood parks and scenic waterfront access to large regional attractions.

Serving as both a vital community resource and a regional destination, Parks Tacoma plays a central role in enhancing quality of life throughout the area.

Our Core Values shape our decisions, guide our operations, and define how we serve our staff, visitors, and community:

• Innovation
• Excellence
• Equity
• Inclusiveness
• Sustainability
• Accountability
• Safety
• Fun

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is the only combined zoo and aquarium in the Pacific Northwest. Located within the scenic 700‑acre Point Defiance Park, the 29‑acre zoological park offers breathtaking views of Mount Rainier, the Olympic Mountains, and Puget Sound. Since its founding in 1905, the Zoo has welcomed over 800,000 visitors annually and remains a beloved regional destination. Accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium upholds the highest standards in animal welfare, veterinary care, conservation, and education.

Awakening a connection to Wild Life with everyone in the Pacific Northwest.

Learn more pdza.org

Under the direction of an assigned lead, this position is responsible for performing routine building and grounds maintenance to support the care and custodial upkeep of Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium facilities, exhibit areas, and surrounding grounds. In the performance of their respective tasks and duties, all employees are expected to:

• Perform quality work within deadlines with or without direct supervision.
• Interact professionally with other employees, customers and suppliers.
• Work effectively as a team contributor on all assignments.
• Work independently while understanding the necessity for communicating and coordinating work efforts with other employees and organizations.
• Observe applicable safety requirements, use safety equipment provided, implement appropriate safety practices at all times and report immediately any unsafe working conditions or hazards.

This position is responsible for performing routine building and grounds maintenance to support the care and custodial upkeep of Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium facilities, exhibit areas, and surrounding grounds. Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Custodial and Cleaning Functions:

• Clean and sanitize restrooms, including toilets, sinks, mirrors, and walls.
• Sweep, mop, vacuum, and maintain cleanliness of floors.
• Collect and remove trash from buildings and grounds; ensure proper disposal.

Groundskeeping and Horticultural Support:

• Perform routine landscaping tasks such as mowing, edging, raking, weeding, fertilizing, and watering lawns.
• Plant, trim, prune, fertilize, water trees, shrubs, and flowers as assigned.
• Clear debris from walkways, hardscapes, and driveways using hand tools or blowers.

Facility Support:

• Set up rooms or event spaces for special functions, including moving furniture, small bleachers, and equipment.
• Assist with general upkeep and minor maintenance of facilities and exhibit areas.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Operate Tacoma Parks vehicles as required.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Possess a valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record. (A five‑year driving abstract will be required upon hire.)
• Ability to safely operate a variety of hand tools and maintenance equipment.
• Prior experience in grounds maintenance, landscaping, or park operations is required.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 60 pounds.
• Ability to exchange information clearly and respectfully with coworkers and the public.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Availability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and…