Custodian - On-Call (Reid Park Zoo)

Reid Park Zoological Society; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 20,000 - 29,000; Part time

Job summary

Reid Park Zoo in Tucson is seeking an experienced on-call overnight custodian to support health, safety, and guest experience. The role requires flexibility and reliable attendance.

You will perform general cleaning, restroom sanitation, and light maintenance, report to the Grounds Supervisor, and assist with after-hours events.

This position pays $17.65 per hour; not benefits eligible except for paid sick leave, with schedule as needed to cover staff outages and events.

Qualifications

• Valid driver’s license required.
• Pre-employment background check and drug screen.
• Able to work effectively and productively alone without supervision.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Flexible schedule including evenings, holidays, and weekends.
• Regular physical attendance at work.
• Bi-lingual Spanish/ASL preferred.

Responsibilities

• Maintain cleanliness of restrooms, offices, break rooms and public areas.
• Operate custodial equipment safely and mix cleaning chemicals correctly.
• Support Grounds Department and secure facilities after hours.
• Assist with setup and teardown of zoo events as needed.
• Report supply needs and safety concerns to supervisor and staff.

Skills

Valid driver's license

Communication skills

Independent worker

Reliability

Flexible schedule

Physical stamina

Bilingual Spanish/ASL

Job description

Join us at the Zoo! We are seeking an experienced janitorial custodian to join our on-call, overnight team! At Reid Park Zoo, we don't cut corners - we clean them! The custodian's role is vital for health, safety, and creating a positive atmosphere for all employees and Zoo guests. The position does not have a set schedule. The On-Call Custodian provides custodial services as needed, on an 'on-call' basis.

With a mission centered in conservation, the Zoo is Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and participates in over 50 Species Survival Plans for threatened and endangered species. Reid Park Zoo cares for over 200 exotic animal species from around the world, maintains a state-of-the-art elephant program, a cutting-edge veterinary clinic that serves as a teaching hospital for the University of Arizona veterinary program, and is a leader in the Monarch and Songbird Saving Animals From Extinction (SAFE) programs. With more than 600,000 visits annually, the Zoo is in the midst of an exciting expansion project, Pathway to Asia, that will add four acres to its campus, bringing new species such as red panda, Komodo dragon and Lar gibbons, as well as a breeding facility for critically-endangered Malayan tigers when it opens in 2026.

Reid Park Zoo's mission is to connect people with animals, inspiring the protection of wild animals and wild places. Be a part of a vibrant, growing organization as Reid Park Zoo continues to support local and global conservation and the highest standards in animal care while providing educational opportunities and family fun.

No phone calls or visits please. This position is open until filled. We are an Equal Opportunities Employer.We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse staff by creating an inclusive environment

Pay Range: $17.65 per hour (flat rate)

Benefits: This position is not benefits eligible, except for paid sick leave. All staff are eligible for a family zoo membership, employee assistance program, and discounts on concession and gift shop purchases.

Shift: As needed to provide coverage due to staff outages, to cover vacations, etc.

You are: dependable, reliable, detail-oriented, take pride in your work, have a professional and positive attitude and are a team player!

The job is: Custodians are vital in making the zoo healthy and safe for our animals, staff and valuable guests. Custodians assist the Grounds Department to maintain zoo grounds and buildings, keeping them clean, sanitized and attractive by performing general cleaning duties and assist with security after hours. This is a hands-on position in a fast-paced environment of a growing organization.

Reports To: Grounds Supervisor

General Duties

• Demonstrates and models the core values of the Reid Park Zoological Society (RPZS or the Zoo)
• Perform duties in accordance with RPZS policies and procedures
• Provide excellent customer service as a component of all job duties
• Follows Zoo safety protocols and procedures
• Cleans public restrooms according to CDC standards
• Performs janitorial duties to include emptying trash receptacles, sweeping, mopping, dusting & sanitizing all areas of contact
• Performs routine maintenance to custodial equipment and supplies; this may include changing light bulbs, adjusting furniture or other similar activities
• Carry out security patrols and gate checks ensuring they are secure and locked
• Unlocks doors, ensuring doors are locked and alarms activated after cleaning areas
• Must be able to mix chemicals precisely for all cleaning purposes
• Ensures proper care in the use and maintenance of equipment and supplies; promotes continuous improvement of workplace safety and environmental practices
• Assists, as directed by the Grounds Supervisor, in on-the-job training of new staff on routine practices
• Reports needs and concerns to appropriate staff which may include submitting or recommending work orders and checking supply levels
• May help with setup and tear down of zoo events
• De-litters zoo grounds and around buildings; removes trash, leaf litter and brush
• Performs high quality custodial work throughout buildings including rest rooms, break rooms, offices etc.
• Safely operates powered equipment and uses chemicals/ cleaning products
• Conducts preventative maintenance and ensures safety
• Completes all trainings as required; including but not limited to job specific training, safety, blood borne pathogens, active shooter, DEAI, radio protocol, CPR & First Aid etc.
• Other Duties as Assigned

Minimum Required Qualifications, Skills and Abilities

• Valid and unrestricted driver's license
• Pre-employment criminal background check and drug screen (we do not test for THC)
• Able to work effectively and productively alone without immediate supervision
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Employee should be assertive, energetic, and enjoy working in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to take direction and be quick to act or change direction as needed
• Reliable and able to work to a schedule and the entire shift times
• Regular physical attendance at work
• Able to work a flexible schedule including evenings, holidays, and weekends as required to support Zoo events

Physical Requirements

• Employee is expected to work outside and must be comfortable working in either cold or hot weather conditions
• Ability to lift and carry heavy objects (up to 50+ pounds on occasion)
• Ability to stand and walk for long periods of time
• Must be able to work flexible work schedules including evenings and weekends

Preferred Qualifications, Skills and Abilities

• 1-2 years custodial experience in a commercial cleaning or janitorial services role
• Experience working in an AZA accredited organization
• Bi-lingual (Spanish / ASL)

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list. It is intended to give a reasonable idea of what might be required.

Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), it is the policy of Reid Park Zoological Society to provide reasonable accommodation when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with a disability unless such accommodation would cause an undue hardship. The policy regarding requests for reasonable accommodation applies to all aspects of employment, including the application process. If reasonable accommodation is needed, don't hesitate to get in touch with the Human Resources Dept.