Custodian (Part-time, Seasonal)

About the role

Custodians play a vital role in making the Zoo a pleasant and enjoyable place for our staff and guests by carefully maintaining the Zoo Grounds and Facilities. They provide thoughtful and responsive customer service to internal (i.e., co-workers) and external (vendors, park visitors, contractors, etc.) guests while tending to their assigned areas.

Responsibilities

• Clean and maintain areas including restrooms, offices, and common spaces by wiping surfaces, mopping, vacuuming, dusting, cleaning windows, and restocking supplies.
• Handle waste and supplies by emptying trash and recycling bins, breaking down boxes, safely using cleaning chemicals, and loading, unloading, and distributing materials as needed.
• Support building operations by moving furniture, servicing high-traffic areas, responding quickly to special cleaning requests, and assisting with general utility work.
• Maintain a safe working environment and report unsafe conditions to supervisor.
• Performs other related duties as required and assigned.

Requirements

• Able to safely operate powered equipment normally found in custodial operations
• Able to work around members of the public
• Able to follow cleaning schedules
• Able to read and follow label instructions on chemicals/cleaning materials, operating instructions on powered equipment
• Able to work on weekends and holidays
• Bonus: 1 or more years of custodial experience
• Bonus: Possess knowledge of total hard floor care and carpet care
• Bonus: Have knowledge of general office maintenance
• Bonus: Valid Driver’s License and good driving record (ability to obtain authorization from the Zoo’s Insurance Carrier)

Qualifications

• Organization – strong attention to details and able to build and/or maintain efficient systems
• Inclusive Culture - fosters a culture of mutual respect, transparency, collaboration and belonging which allows all employees to feel appreciated, included, and valued.
• Passion – wholeheartedly believes in, represents, and models Oakland Zoo’s mission and PRIDE values at all times
• 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 the Oakland Zoo and able to put those into practice by finding creative and resourceful ways to develop sustainable practices within your role and department

Work Environment

Work will be a mixture of indoor and outdoor environments and may involve traversing uneven terrain and working in various weather conditions.

Physical Considerations: Able to lift and carry objects weighing 50 pounds or more; able to bend and twist, lift, stand, kneel, sit, walk, bend, stoop, and speak regularly and for 8‑hour shifts; able to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Benefits

Oakland Zoo offers part-time and seasonal employees a valuable benefits package, including an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Paid Sick Time, optional 403b Retirement Plan, and discounted Zoo Membership options. They also have access to various perks, discounts, and programs to enhance their overall experience.

Pay

$22.07 per hour

Schedule

Part‑time seasonal position expected to start on 11/01/2026 and end on 02/19/2027, with potential to extend in a regular or temporary capacity depending on organizational needs. Two positions available, working 20‑28 hours per week on evenings, nights, and weekends.