Zoo Facilities Lead: Safety, Systems & Events

United Way of Greater Knoxville; Knoxville (TN); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Zoo Knoxville is seeking a Facilities Manager to lead daily operations and long‑term maintenance of the zoo's infrastructure. You will oversee grounds, buildings, utilities, and equipment, ensuring safety, sustainability, and alignment with the zoo's mission while coordinating with contractors and internal teams.

You will report to senior leadership, manage budgets and procurement, and foster a high‑performing, customer‑focused facilities team capable of supporting events, capital projects, and

Qualifications

• Minimum of five years of experience in construction/ facility maintenance, including two in a supervisory role.
• Technical or trade school degree in construction management / facility maintenance or related field.
• OSHA 10 certification preferred.
• Experience in AZA‑accredited zoological environment preferred.
• Competent computer skills with Microsoft Office, Word, Excel and PowerPoint.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the Facilities department, planning, organizing, scheduling, and directing staff activities.
• Serve as primary contact to staff scheduling and project staffing to meet operational needs.
• Provide leadership, guidance, and support to facilities staff; foster cross‑department collaboration.
• Report to Assistant Director of Facilities, Director of Facilities, and COO depending on project scope.
• Maintain safety, cleanliness, appearance, and functionality of all grounds, buildings, utilities, and facilities.
• Coordinate and manage external contractors for maintenance, repair, and construction projects.
• Manage installation, setup, and teardown of temporary exhibits and special events; support event execution as needed.
• Promote safety culture; enforce policies and provide training on equipment use and safety procedures.
• Manage budgeting and procurement of tools, materials, and supplies; assist in strategic planning and budget recommendations.
• Maintain records for inspections, permits, work orders, and safety documentation.
• Establish relationships across departments and communicate clearly with stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, ADA, EPA, USDA, AZA, TWRA, MOSH, EPA, DOT, and other standards.

Skills

Facility systems

HVAC systems

Electrical systems

Plumbing

Blueprint reading

Safety compliance

Contractor coordination

Maintenance software

Leadership

Budgeting

Education

Construction management degree

Technical/trade degree

OSHA 10 certification

High school diploma

Tools

Microsoft Office

Maintenance/work order software

Job description

Zoo Knoxville is seeking a Facilities Manager to lead daily operations and long‑term maintenance of the zoo's infrastructure. You will oversee grounds, buildings, utilities, and equipment, ensuring safety, sustainability, and alignment with the zoo's mission while coordinating with contractors and internal teams.

You will report to senior leadership, manage budgets and procurement, and foster a high‑performing, customer‑focused facilities team capable of supporting events, capital projects, and