Job Description

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is an international, nonprofit conservation organization with two front doors: the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. We integrate wildlife health and care, science, and education to develop sustainable conservation solutions.

HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION
The Mechanic supports San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's mission and vision of saving species worldwide by uniting our expertise in wildlife care and conservation science with our dedication to inspiring passion for nature and leading the fight against extinction. The Mechanic under general supervision performs skilled mechanical and electrical repair and routine maintenance on diesel, gasoline and electric powered vehicles and equipment. This position reports to a Lead/Supervisor. The Mechanic is a journey level class performing skilled maintenance and repairs on a variety of light, medium and heavy-duty vehicles and equipment which are powered by gasoline, diesel or electrical motors, including air and hydraulic systems.

WHAT YOU WILL DO
• Performs required repairs to ensure equipment is safe, reliable and in optimal working condition.
• Inspects, services and maintains vehicles and mechanical equipment in accordance with department schedules and standards.
• Troubleshoots and identifies the root cause of electrical and mechanical malfunctions using diagnostic tools, technical manuals and performance tests.
• Maintains accurate and up-to-date service logs, repair historied and maintenance records for all vehicles and equipment.
• Maintain shop facilities in compliance with safety standards, including proper storage of tools, parts and hazardous materials.
• Monitor equipment condition, address wear and tear promptly, and ensure compliance with safety standards.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

JOB EXPERIENCE
• Education, training and/or experience which would clearly demonstrate the essential functions, knowledge and skills listed preferred.
• One or more year’s journey-level experience in automotive and electrical repair and maintenance preferred.

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS
• Valid California Drivers License Required Upon Hire
• Commercial Driver License Preferred

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
Knowledge of:
• Principles of electrical systems
• Principles of internal combustion engines
• Methods, tools, material and equipment used
• The maintenance and repairs of mechanical equipment
Ability to:
• Use standard automotive shop tools and equipment
• Use various types of electrical and automotive test equipment
• Distinguish color-coded wiring and monitor engine sounds
• Understand and carry out instructions
• Keep maintenance records and make arithmetic calculations
• Communicate and work effectively with others
• Deal tactfully and courteously with the others
• Respond to cautions from co-workers
• Operate motorized equipment and vehicles
• Competently perform the essential functions outlined above

SOME OF THE REWARDS YOU WILL ENJOY AS A TEAM MEMBER
• Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• Family Passes
• Complimentary Tickets
• Free Parking at the San Diego Zoo & San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• Local and In-House Discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellness Program
IMPORTANT DETAILS
• Location: San Diego, CA
• Position Type: Hourly Full-Time Non-Exempt Union Position - If selected, there will be fees and dues to be paid to the union
• Hourly Rate: $38.63
About The Salary Ranges
The posted salary range represents the full compensation potential for this role over time. Initial hiring offers are typically made within the lower to mid portion of the range and are based on a combination of relevant experience, skills, qualifications, internal equity, and organizational considerations. Placement near the top of the range is generally reserved for individuals who demonstrate sustained performance, growth, and expanded responsibilities in the role over time.
Fraudulent Recruiting
Beware of fraudulent recruiting. Legitimate San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance contacts will use an @sdzwa.org email address. We do not request money, checks, equipment orders, or sensitive personal data during the recruitment process. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance only conducts interviews via phone, Zoom, Teams or in-person.
If you have been asked for any of the above, or believe you have been contacted by someone posing as a San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance employee, please e-mail sdzwacareers@sdzwa.org. If you feel that you have been the victim of fraud, please contact your financial institution(s) immediately.
At San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, we celebrate our differences and foster a culture of belonging. Diversity strengthens our employees, enriches our guests’ experiences, deepens our connection to our community, and supports the wildlife we serve.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.
If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete an application, please email your request to sdzwacareers@sdzwa.org and provide the job title and location to which you are applying.
As a Federal Contractor, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is required to participate in the E-Verify Program to confirm eligibility to work in the United States. We are not offering sponsorship for this position at this time.
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a drug free workplace.