Lift/Rides Helper (Part-time, Relief)

Company: Oakland Zoo
Location: Castro Valley
Posted on: April 1, 2026

Job Description:

Pay Range: To maintain internal equity, we have identified the starting rate for this position at the Oakland Zoo as $26.99 per hour . An offer at this rate will be our best and final compensation offer. Finalist candidates will need to complete a paid on-site working interview to be considered. Note: This is a part-time, relief position with an anticipated end date of September 30 2026. This may be extended depending on the needs of the organization. The Lift/Rides Helper supports the safe and reliable operation of the Oakland Zoo’s aerial lift systems and amusement rides by assisting with routine maintenance, inspections, and basic repairs. Working closely with the Lift/Rides team, this role helps ensure mechanical and electrical components are functioning properly and responds to system issues as needed. The Lift/Rides Helper demonstrates sound judgment, clear communication, and effective teamwork with Zoo staff, vendors, and contractors. This part-time, relief position offers an excellent opportunity to build hands-on maintenance experience. The Lift/Rides Helper may work independently or under direct guidance, contributing to essential upkeep that enhances accessibility and supports the Zoo’s overall infrastructure. Essential Job Duties: Assist the Lift/Rides Manager and Mechanics with daily testing, inspection, and basic repairs of aerial lifts and amusement rides mechanical and electrical systems. Support with performing routine and assigned maintenance in alignment with A.N.S.I., manufacturer guidelines, OSHA, IAAPA, ASTM, and CSC Lift/Rides Department standards. Help with startup procedures after appropriate training, including monitoring rope dynamics and identifying potential safety concerns. Support with documenting lift maintenance, inspections, and checklists in accordance with A.N.S.I. B-77 code requirements. Support with documenting rides maintenance, inspections, and checklists in accordance with ATSM and IAAPA code requirements. Safely and effectively use tools, rigging equipment, Ropeway and Track components, lubricants, and personal protective equipment. Read and interpret safety rules, operating manuals, maintenance instructions, and procedure documents; write basic reports and maintenance notes. Participate in ongoing training and skill development as required. Perform other related duties as assigned to support safe and reliable lift operations and overall Zoo maintenance. Who you are: At least 18 years of age.â?¯ Possess a high school diploma or GED. California Class C Driver’s License and good driving record (ability to obtain approval from Zoo Insurance Carrier).â?¯ Able and willingness to learn Aerial Systems (Gondola and Sky Ride) and Amusement Ride Maintenance in The Zoo. Able to read complex manuals and write routine reports in English. Excellent judgment and the ability to follow detailed instructions are necessary to complete projects/assignments.â?¯ Ability to work weekends and holidays, as needed. Bonus if you have: Experience with mechanical and electrical trades, especially related to Aerial Tramway and Ride Structures. Trade school experience Experience with rides or aerial tramway maintenance Work Environment Able to work outside, on towers and at heights (up to 100 feet) in all weather conditions. Ability to work in close proximity to operating equipment/Team members. Able to work in animal areas and willing to undergo training as needed. Physical Considerations - The physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Able to bend and twist, lift and carry 50 pounds, stand, kneel, sit, walk, bend, stoop and speak regularly and for 8-hour shifts. Able to work on uneven and loose terrain, hard surfaces and sloped surfaces. Knowledge/Skills/Qualities - May be representative, but not all-inclusive, of those knowledge, skills and abilities commonly associated with this position. Communication – communicates respectfully and effectively with stakeholders across identities, both verbally and in writing Dependability – demonstrates trustworthiness and reliability, including while working with little or no direct supervision Flexibility – nimbly adapts to evolving priorities and urgent needs; handles intervals of high pressure while maintaining perspective and humorâ?¯ Inclusive Culture - fosters a culture of mutual respect, transparency, collaboration and belonging which allows all employees to feel appreciated, included, and valued. Passion – wholeheartedly believes in, represents, and models Oakland Zoo’s mission and PRIDE values at all times. Self-motivated – effectively navigates multiple, simultaneous tasks with excellent attention to detail and deadlines. Enthusiastically identifies and approaches opportunities without regular supervisionâ?¯ Solution-oriented – utilizes an open-minded and strength–based approach to finding solutions for complex challenges. Time management – strong capabilities with a demonstrated ability to effectively prioritize multiple commitmentsâ?¯ Wildlife Aware - understands mission to support the conservation and welfare of animals at The Zoo, locally and globally. This is demonstrated by a willingness/passion to reflect this mission in all actions and to continue to learn how to take action for wildlife. Sustainability – oriented toward the mission and values of the Oakland Zoo and able to put those into practice by finding creative and resourceful ways to develop sustainable practices within your role and department. Benefits Oakland Zoo offers part-time and seasonal employees a valuable benefits package, including an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Paid Sick Time, optional 403b Retirement Plan, and a Zoo Membership. They also have access to various perks, discounts, and programs to enhance their overall experience. Who We Are Oakland Zoo (managed by The Conservation Society of California) is an award-winning facility stretching 100 acres and overlooking the city of Oakland atop the hills of beautiful Knowland Park. Our mission is to deepen connections with animals, save wildlife, and inspire champions for the natural world. As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Zoo is part of the largest conservation organization in the nation. Our employees take PRIDE in our values of being Positive, Respectful, Inquisitive, Driven and Effective members of a team who places the care of our animals, stewardship of the natural environment, and the experience of our guests at the forefront of all that we do. Oakland Zoo’s Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Access We believe that all people should have safe access to the Zoo and culturally relevant and responsive experiences with our staff, programs, and curriculum. Oakland Zoo is also striving to create an equitable and inclusive internal culture where all staff members feel represented and valued for their identities and lived experiences. We examine how power, bias, race, and other aspects of identity impact our organization. We work to build a culture of continuous learning and improvement toward a vision of equity and belonging for all staff. We are looking for team members who can actively join us in this process. We are committed to reflecting the diverse community in which we exist and strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ identifying folks, and women to apply. The Conservation Society of California is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, QAOV status, or other characteristics protected by law. The Conservation Society of California also promotes respect for all people and will not tolerate harassment based on any of these characteristics. Oakland Zoo participates in E-Verify to verify work authorization.

Keywords: Oakland Zoo, Salinas , Lift/Rides Helper (Part-time, Relief), Seasonal Jobs , Castro Valley, California