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Zoo Train Operator and Maintenance Worker – Variable Hour

Oregon MetroPortland, MEApril 12th, 2026
JOB Hello, we’re Metro! Metro is dedicated to shaping a better future for the greater Portland region. The work the people of Metro do every day benefits the lives of the people who live here, today, and tomorrow. One of the highlights of a trip to the Oregon Zoo is riding on the Zoo Train! The Oregon Zoo is seeking enthusiastic individuals to join our team as variable hour Zoo Train Operator and Maintenance Worker. In this role, you will operate both diesel and steam powered trains, providing an unforgettable experience to our visitors. Your responsibilities will include not only operating the trains but supporting their maintenance, engaging with guests, and contributing to various services related to train operations. As part of the broader Maintenance Worker III classification, you will have the opportunity to complete more complex journey-level duties, such as parts fabrication and installation, as well as coordinate maintenance and construction responsibilities. This role offers a diverse range of responsibilities, including machining, mechanical, electrical, welding, painting, and more, ensuring the smooth operations of our trains and related facilities. Join us in creating memorable experiences while contributing to the upkeep of the Oregon Zoo!As the Zoo Train Operator and Maintenance Worker you will: Operate diesel and steam powered locomotives; communicate with passengers and other zoo guests while in route regarding sites, history, activities, events, and project plans.Assist with and perform regular maintenance tasks on railroad equipment and associated railroad facility structures. Operate a variety of heavy and light equipment, such as forklift or Skid Steer machines, hand and power tools necessary to complete job duties.Perform other guest service functions, such as tour narrating, ticket taking, emergency services support, and other duties as assigned.Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge ofa broad range of building maintenance and construction methods and practices associated with automotive service, carpentry, plumbing and painting tradesoccupational hazards involved and the safety precautions necessary in the area of work assignmentSkill touse hand tools and power tools applicable to the workoperate spike driver and tamping equipment for positions assigned to railroad track building and repair perform the essential functions of the position, including heavy manual labor for extended periods, often under inclement weather conditions, and lifting up to 50 lbs.Ability tounderstand and follow oral and written instructionsbe meticulous in the cleanup of work areas within animal exhibit areas, to work around exotic and sometimes dangerous animals, and to react quickly to hazardous conditionsestablish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees estimate and order materials necessary to complete assignmentsprovide excellent customer service by meeting the needs and interacting with employees, volunteers, vendors, the public, and others encountered during the course of work in a courteous and professional mannerestablish and maintain cooperative working relationships with employees, volunteers, vendors, and others encountered during the course of workdevelop skills in operating a personal computer and software, radios, and cell phonesdevelop skills in guest services communications and providing information about projects and plans as well as providing directions to Zoo locations exhibit regular and predictable attendancework in a safe manner and follow safety policies, practices and proceduresDIVERSITY AND INCLUSION At Metro, we strive to cultivate diversity, advance equity, and practice inclusion in all of its work. This means attracting and empowering a workforce that is inclusive of a broad range of human qualities. Workplace diversity is both a moral imperative and a business strength, essential to providing quality support and services to our region. Metro’s goal is to hire, develop and retain highly skilled and talented individuals across all departments and programs who best reflect the diversity of our community. Learn more about Metro’s Diversity Action PlanTO QUALIFYWe will consider any combination of relevant work experience, volunteering, education, and transferable skills as qualifying unless an item or section is labeled required. Please be clear and specific in your application materials on how your background is relevant. Minimum QualificationsTrade certification or equivalent and5 years progressively responsible multi-skill, multi-trade experience such as required for mechanic, machinist, electrical, welding, and heavy equipment operator responsibilities comparable to the Zoo Railroad.Any combination of experience and training which provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for successful completion of the essential job duties.RequiredValid Driver’s licenseAbility to obtain within 6 monthsFirst Aid/CPR certificationLocomotive Engineer Certifications (Steam and Diesel)Shift and schedule - Schedules vary based on operational need, weather and events at the zoo, including school breaks, holidays, summer and the ZooLights season. These positions are considered to be variable hour, with no set schedule. This position is classified as variable hour. Variable hour employees cannot work more than 1,040 hours per year. If this statement is true for you, then you may be ineligible to applyIf you were terminated for cause during any employment with Metro, or resigned in lieu of termination, you may be ineligible for rehire for a minimum of 3 years.SCREENING AND EVALUATIONThe application packet: The application packet consists of the following documents. Please ensure that you upload these documents in your online application. Make sure your application is complete, missing any part of these items could result in an incomplete application and will not be moved forward in the recruitment.A completed online applicationComplete answers to supplemental questionsThe selection process: We expect to evaluate candidates for this recruitment as follows. The selection process is subject to change.Initial review of minimum qualificationsIn-depth evaluation of application materials to identify the most qualified candidatesConsideration of top candidates/interviewsTesting/assessments (if applicable)Reference check Driving records check for finalist candidate REPRESENTATION This variable hour position is eligible for overtime and is represented by Liuna union. It is classified as a Maintenance Worker III. Classification descriptions are typically written broadly and do not include the specific duties and responsibilities of the positions. View the classification description. Questions?Talent Acquisition Specialist: Megan WarnekeEmail: megan.warneke@oregonmetro.gov SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION Equal employment opportunityAll qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, familial status, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability for which a reasonable accommodation can be made, or any other status protected by law. AccommodationMetro will gladly provide a reasonable accommodation to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing this application or participating in this recruitment process. Please contact the recruiter outlined in the job announcement in advance to request assistance. Veterans' preferenceUnder Oregon Law, qualified veterans may be eligible for veterans' preference when applying for Metro positions. If you are a veteran and would like to be considered for a veterans' preference for this job, please provide qualifying documents as instructed during the application process. Pay equity at MetroNo matter who you are or where you work at Metro, you deserve to be paid fairly for the work you do. Every worker must get equal pay for equal work regardless of your gender, race, age, or other protected characteristics. Metro has established processes and conducts routine pay equity reviews as part of the hiring process to ensure compliance with the 2017 Oregon Pay Equity Act. Online applicationsMetro accepts job applications online. If you need assistance or accommodation with your application, or access to a computer, please contact the recruiter outlined in the job announcement in advance to request assistance. How to ApplyFor tips on how to apply and more information on what the application process looks like, visit Metro’s “How to apply” page. 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