Zoo Groundskeeper: Outdoor Landscape & Guest Experience

Brookfield Zoo; Brookfield (IL); On-site; USD 36,000 - 51,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Union full-time

Job summary

Brookfield Zoo is seeking a Groundskeeper to maintain its 235 acres of outdoor spaces and support a safe, welcoming environment for guests and staff. The role is full-time, hourly, and union-affiliated, with a typical schedule 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., including weekends.

You will perform horticulture and general park duties, supervise seasonal staff, and ensure safety and cleanliness across lawns, beds, and walkways. CDL-b hands a plus, Spanish is a bonus, and standard safety protocols apply.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Associates or Bachelor’s in Horticulture or related field, or equivalent experience desirable.
• Minimum of one year previous grounds maintenance or horticulture experience required.
• Valid driver’s license required; Illinois residents must possess a valid Illinois license within 90 days of hire; out-of-state license required for out-of-state residents.
• CDL Class C or B license preferred.
• Valid medical authorization card required for CMV driving responsibilities.
• Knowledge of irrigation systems preferred.
• Pesticide operator license preferred or onsite training provided.
• Certified arborist license may be required.
• Good communications and interpersonal skills.
• Reliable, dependable and flexible.
• Spanish fluency a plus.

Responsibilities

• Perform park landscape maintenance and horticulture following routine procedures.
• Direct work of seasonal employees and report performance to supervisor as necessary.
• Daily inspections of assigned areas and report safety issues or repairs as needed.
• Other related duties as required.

Skills

Good communications

Interpersonal skills

Spanish fluency

Flexible

Reliable

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associates or Bachelor’s in Horticulture or related field

Job description

Brookfield Zoo is seeking a Groundskeeper to maintain its 235 acres of outdoor spaces and support a safe, welcoming environment for guests and staff. The role is full-time, hourly, and union-affiliated, with a typical schedule 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., including weekends.

You will perform horticulture and general park duties, supervise seasonal staff, and ensure safety and cleanliness across lawns, beds, and walkways. CDL-b hands a plus, Spanish is a bonus, and standard safety protocols apply.