Maintenance Assistant

Role Description

You will be a big part of the team that looks after and improves all aspects of Dartmoor Zoo’s
infrastructure and environment.

Hours:         Full time (37.5 hours per week).
Contract:     Permanent
Salary:         £24,200 per annum

Key tasks:

−  Maintain and repair all areas of the Zoo.
−  Perform grounds-keeping to maintain a positive appearance, especially in guest areas.
−  Maintain  and  repair  all  Zoo  buildings  and  structures,  including  animal  houses  and

enclosures.

−  Help to create, develop or rebuild new animal houses and enclosures in line with the animal

collection plan, and create appropriate access paths for the public and staff.

−  Be proactive and identify and assist in scheduling works to prevent longer-term issues.
−  Supervise,  coach  and  work  with  volunteering  groups  and  individuals  assigned  to  the

maintenance department.

−  Help manage contractors as required around site.
−  Answer  questions  from  the  visiting  public  in  a  courteous  and  informative  manner,  or  seek

appropriate assistance from another team member.

−  Support the  Maintenance Manager and Health and Safety compliance,  by  performing park
safety  checks,  assist  on  creating  risk  assessments,  scheduling  work  and  researching
materials.

−  Assist in ensuring all tools and equipment are maintained and fit for purpose.
−  Adhere to all Zoo Health and Safety Policies and Procedures.
−  Undergo  training  to  maintain  skills  and  course  certifications  appropriate  to  the  tasks

required.

−  Support and coach others within the zoo on basic maintenance skills, including the keepers

and other maintenance team members.

−  Undertake any other relevant tasks to support the Charity.

Our ideal candidate will:

−  Have experience in all areas of maintenance, or experience of the building trade.
−  Have a set of certified skills (for example, plumbing, carpentry, mechanical or electrical

qualifications) or be able to evidence these skills.

−  Understand the importance of complying with health and safety in the workplace.
−  Be proficient with IT (updating spreadsheets and using word documents).
−  Be competent in writing risk assessments and short reports.
−  Be physically able to undertake a variety of maintenance tasks.
−  Have self-motivation and be able to inspire others.
−  Think for themselves, as well as follow instructions.
−  Have experience of leading or directing a team of unskilled people.
−  Appreciate animal needs and stand behind our values and principles.