Zoo Custodian - Create Clean, Welcoming Spaces

Oregonmetro; Portland (OR); On-site; USD 30,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

Metro, the regional government for the greater Portland area, is seeking a Custodian for the Oregon Zoo. The role involves keeping guest areas clean, safe, and welcoming, supporting daily operations and special events while engaging with visitors during zoo hours.

This position emphasizes teamwork, safety, and reliable service; you will operate cleaning equipment, assist with guest inquiries, and help maintain high standards of cleanliness across both indoor and outdoor spaces.

Qualifications

• High School or GED AND
• Two years of experience in custodial, customer service work, and problem solving indicating an ability to perform duties as part of a self directed work team and with minimum supervision OR
• Any combination of education and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the classification duties and responsibilities

Responsibilities

• Perform general custodial services across zoo grounds, buildings, exhibits, offices, and public spaces during AM and PM shifts.
• Maintain cleanliness and appearance by sweeping, mopping, stripping, waxing, and polishing floors; cleaning carpets; dusting and polishing furniture; washing windows, woodwork, restrooms, and fixtures.
• Collect and transport trash and recyclable materials from public areas, animal holding areas, and offices using garbage trucks, mini-dump trucks, dumpsters, and other zoo vehicles.
• Operate custodial, maintenance, and grounds equipment, including forklifts, tractors, personnel lifts, pressure washers, industrial fans, ladders, painting equipment, hand tools, radios, and computers.
• Perform light maintenance duties such as replacing light bulbs, removing graffiti, restocking restroom supplies, unclogging sinks and toilets, moving furniture, preparing rooms for meetings, and assisting with event setup.
• Conduct deep cleaning activities including floor stripping and recoating, pressure washing, touch-up painting, cleaning under waste containers, and transferring recycled materials to holding areas.
• Assist visitors by answering questions, providing directions, and supporting situations involving lost children, minor first aid, or security concerns.
• Follow safety, animal care, and customer service guidelines while working during zoo operations and public hours.
• Maintain cleaning equipment and supplies, including ordering materials and ensuring tools are in safe working condition.
• Respond during emergency situations and perform other duties as assigned to include open and close buildings, check and lock doors and windows, and assist with snow removal as required.

Skills

Custodial experience

Customer service

Safety awareness

Teamwork

Independent work

Education

High School or GED

Tools

Forklifts

Pressure washers

Job description

Metro, the regional government for the greater Portland area, is seeking a Custodian for the Oregon Zoo. The role involves keeping guest areas clean, safe, and welcoming, supporting daily operations and special events while engaging with visitors during zoo hours.

This position emphasizes teamwork, safety, and reliable service; you will operate cleaning equipment, assist with guest inquiries, and help maintain high standards of cleanliness across both indoor and outdoor spaces.