Zoo Society Billable 1 - Park Worker I - Zoo

04.15.2025 BC

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Under general supervision, to perform manual work involved in the maintenance of gardens, landscaped areas, potted plants and greenhouse plants.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

Park Worker I exercises no supervision.

Park Worker II may perform as a lead worker of temporary or part time employees and volunteers.

IMPORTANT AND ESSENTIAL DUTIES

Water and fertilize trees, shrubs, flowers and other plants; trim and prune trees and shrubs; prepare ground for planting; plant and transplant trees, shrubs, and other plants.

Pull weeds, remove debris and apply mulch to gardens and other landscaped areas.

Sweep and clean sidewalks; pick up litter.

Assist with light construction work such as irrigation installation and repair and installation of garden edging or hard landscape such as ornamental sculptures or rocks.

Operate various types and sizes of equipment such as weed eaters, gators, and power tools.

Assist other zoo departments and zoo guests as needed or as assigned to provide the highest level of customer service.

Park Worker II

Operate larger maintenance and construction equipment such as front loader backhoe, larger area mowers, and lift bucket.

Provide worksite supervision of other zoo horticulture employees or volunteers in the absence of the Zoo Horticulturist.

Perform minor pesticide or herbicide applications under the direction and supervision of the Horticulturist.

OTHER JOB RELATED DUTIES

Perform other job related duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Knowledge Of

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Methods, materials, and equipment used in plant and landscape maintenance work.

Occupational hazards and safety precautions of general maintenance work

Safe driving principles and practices.

Skill To

Learn to operate a variety of equipment, tools, and vehicles including a pick-up truck, edger, chain saw, string trimmer, and brush chipper.

Occupational hazards and safety precautions of plant and landscape maintenance work

Operate a motor vehicle safely.

Ability To

Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

Distinguish desirable plants from undesirable plants.

Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work, both internally and externally.

Follow and embrace the City of Abilene Core Values – Respect, Integrity, Service Above Self, and Excellence in All We Do.

Perform as a team member in a manner that accomplishes the Division’s mission and treats team members with dignity, courtesy, and respect.

Park Worker II

Knowledge Of

Operating irrigation controllers.

Skill To

Learn to operate a variety of heavier, more technical equipment including front loader, backhoe, lift bucket, and large area mower.

Ability To

Identify 80% of the major landscape plants, pests and their symptoms, and weeds found in the Abilene Zoo landscapes, and have some familiarity with their culture.

Perform calculations and organize information to accurately complete reports.

Lead and manage a team in a manner that accomplishes the Division’s mission and treats team members with dignity, courtesy, and respect.

Experience And Training Guidelines

Park Worker I

Experience

Previous experience in grounds/garden maintenance or related manual work is preferred.

Education/Training

Formal or informal education or training, which ensures the ability to read and write at a level necessary for successful job performance.

License Or Certificate

A valid Texas driver’s license: the ability to obtain one within ninety (90) days of employment, or a military waiver is required.

Park Worker II

Experience

One (1) year experience equivalent to that of a Park Worer I in the City of Abilene is required.

Special Requirements

Bloodborne Pathogen training and HazCom training are required within sixty (60) days of employment.

The ability to work in conditions ranging from extreme heat to extreme cold in a variety of weather types is required.

Exposure to noise, outdoors, vibration, chemicals, and mechanical hazards.

With or without accommodation, the “X” indicates the overall strength demand of the position during a typical workday:

_X_ Medium – lifting no more than 50 pounds; carrying up to 25 pounds

Codes For How Often

N = No

E = Extensive (100 – 70% of the time)

M = Moderate (60 – 30% of the time)

I = Infrequent (20 – 10% of the time)

A = Almost Never (<10% of the time)

Code / Task

_E_ Standing

_I_ Sitting

_E_ Walking

_M_ Lifting

_M_ Carrying

_M_ Pushing/Pulling

_I_ Overhead Work

_I_ Fine Dexterity

_E_ Kneeling

_E_ Crouching

_I_ Crawling

_E_ Bending

_M_ Twisting

_I_ Climbing

_I_ Balancing

_E_ Vision

_M_ Hearing

_I_ Talking

_E_ Other: Work Outdoors in extreme weather (windy, cold, hot, inclement)