Facilities Carpenter

Position Type:
Operations

Date Posted:
4/28/2026

Location:
Zoo Knoxville
Job Title: Facilities Carpenter

Department: Facilities Date Written / Updated: 12/11/25

Reports To: Facilities Manager Status: Full Time

Supervises: N/A Pay Rate; $17.00-$19.50 Hourly

SUMMARY OF POSITION:

The Facilities Carpenter is a skilled craftsman responsible for the construction, repair, maintenance, and rehabilitation of Zoo Knoxville's buildings, exhibits, animal enclosures, utility systems, grounds, and support structures. This position performs advanced carpentry rough, finish, fabrication, and structural and supports a wide variety of maintenance and construction-related tasks, including troubleshooting, diagnostics, and collaboration with multiple trades.

Under limited supervision, the Facilities Carpenter interprets construction documents, conducts material takeoffs, maintains records, leads or assists with special projects, and ensures work quality meets Zoo Knoxville's high standards. This position supports Zoo events, guest operations, sustainability efforts, and compliance with all regulatory agencies governing zoological facilities.

As essential personnel, the Facilities Carpenter must respond to emergencies, weather events, and operational needs.

DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES

Carpentry, Construction & Fabrication

• Construct, install, modify, and repair interior and exterior structures, fixtures, and components using wood, plywood, laminated materials, wallboard, and related building materials.
• Perform general, rough, and fine carpentry, demonstrating proficiency with industry-standard tools and equipment.
• Diagnose and repair damaged or deteriorated structural components.
• Fabricate and maintain animal holding structures, shipping crates, squeeze cages, and exhibit-related hardware.
• Perform roofing, siding, framing, decking, fencing, doors, hardware installation, and other carpentry-related tasks.
• Read, understand, and explain construction blueprints, drawings, technical manuals, and specifications to others.

Maintenance, Troubleshooting & Repairs

• Troubleshoot issues related to structures, utilities, equipment, and building systems; propose logical solutions and corrective actions.
• Conduct preventive maintenance to ensure operational safety, compliance, and equipment longevity.
• Maintain storm drains, sewers, gutters, gates, fencing, and related infrastructure.
• Assist with minor plumbing, electrical, welding, HVAC, and mechanical repairs.
• Ensure all work adheres to local, state, and federal codes, including ADA, AZA, USDA, TWRA, OSHA, MOSH, EPA, DOT, and building codes.

Facility Operations & Grounds Maintenance

• Maintain the quality, cleanliness, functionality, safety, and usability of Zoo Knoxville grounds, buildings, utilities, public areas, animal habitats, support spaces, and undeveloped properties.
• Ensure daily appearance and operational integrity of all Zoo facilities.
• Perform heavy manual labor in outdoor conditions, including extreme weather.
• Participate snow and ice removal according to Zoo policies.

Project Planning, Documentation & Tasks

• Conduct detailed material takeoffs, compile materials lists, and coordinate procurement.
• Request needed tools, equipment, materials, and supplies with appropriate authorization.
• Maintain required documentation, including daily logs, reports, schedules, records, and compliance documentation.
• Participate in departmental and Zoo-wide meetings.

Event Support & Exhibits

• Manage and assist with installation, setup, operation, and removal of temporary and special exhibits and event structures, including working during events as needed.
• Provide professional quality customer service to staff, guests, vendors, and contractors.

Safety, Training & Compliance

• Follow and enforce all safety policies, procedures, and risk-management practices.
• Ensure safe operation of hand tools, power tools, vehicles, and light-to-heavy equipment.
• Provide guidance and training on safe equipment use and work practices.
• Maintain awareness of potential hazards working around tools, machinery, chemicals, heavy lifting, and in proximity to dangerous animals.
• Support Zoo Knoxville's commitment to sustainability and core values.
• Follow the chain of command at all times.

Interpersonal Skills & Teamwork

• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with Zoo staff and outside partners.
• Demonstrate tact, courtesy, professionalism, and Zoo Knoxville's core values in all communications.

Other

• Adhere to Zoo Knoxville's uniform policy with a visible nametag at all times.
• Other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
• The omission of specific duties does not exclude them if they are logical assignments to this role.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Highly organized, efficient, accurate, and self-motivated.
• Strong analytical, logical, and problem-solving abilities.
• Creative, imaginative, and able to think laterally to develop solutions.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and workflow efficiently.
• Strong initiative with a commitment to excellence and high standards.
• Keen attention to detail and quality of work.
• Ability to make timely, sound decisions and strategically weigh risks and benefits.
• Ability to work quickly and effectively in high-stress or emergency situations.
• Flexible and adaptable in a dynamic, changing environment.
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team.
• Proficient computer skills, including various software programs.
• Ability to safely operate hand tools, power tools, and light to heavy equipment.

EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE

• High school diploma required.
• Technical or trade school degree in construction management, facility maintenance, carpentry, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.
• Experience in an AZA-accredited zoo or similar facility preferred.
• OSHA 10 certification for General Industry preferred.
• Must possess or qualify for a valid Tennessee driver's license.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Work takes place outdoors and indoors in varying weather conditions.
• Frequent lifting up to 50 lbs; occasional lifting up to and above 100 lbs.
• Work may require bending, kneeling, climbing, crawling, standing for extended periods, and use of ladders or lifts.
• Work occurs near exotic and domestic animals; must understand inherent risks.
• Must be able to communicate effectively in English via radio, email, phone, and in person.
• Must be available for weekends, holidays, emergencies, early mornings, and after-hours events.

As an employee of Zoo Knoxville, you must possess English communication skills as well as the ability to communicate using a 2-way radio, email and telephone. The position hours vary depending on business needs and will require weekend and some holiday shifts. Depending on the specific tasks, this position will be required to work within close proximity of exotic and domestic animals and must be aware that there are dangers inherent in working under those conditions. Zoo Knoxville is committed to maintaining a drug free workplace and as such each employee must pass a pre-employment drug screen.