Lift/Rides Mechanic

This is a full-time temporary position expected to end on October 9, 2026, with potential to extend to a temporary or relief position depending on organizational needs.

About the Role

The Lift/Rides Mechanic plays a key role in enhancing accessibility at the Zoo for guests and staff by assisting with the maintenance and repair of 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. This role requires excellent judgement, proactive communication, and strong collaboration with Zoo staff, external vendors, and contractors.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Requirements

• 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.

Preferred Qualifications

• 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

• 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

• 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.

Skills

• Collaboration: Builds trusting relationships with internal and external stakeholders; 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.
• 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.
• Wildlife Aware: Understands the mission to support the conservation and welfare of animals at the Zoo, locally and globally.
• 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.

Pay

$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 the 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.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Employee Assistance Program
• Zoo Membership options