Head of Facilities (Full-Time)

Facilities Date Written / Updated: Reports To: Director of Facilities Status: Full-Time Exempt

Facilities Staff Pay Range: $50,000-$55,000 Annually

The Facilities Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily functions and long‑term maintenance of Zoo Knoxville's physical infrastructure. This role leads the Facilities team in ensuring the zoo's grounds, buildings, utilities, and equipment are safe, clean, operational, and aligned with the zoo's mission and core values. The position requires strategic planning, hands‑on involvement, effective coordination with contractors and internal departments, and a strong emphasis on safety, compliance, and sustainability. The Facilities Manager plays a key role in supporting zoo events, capital projects, emergency preparedness, and cross‑departmental collaboration while fostering a high‑performance, customer‑focused team environment. Oversee daily operations of the Facilities department, including planning, organizing, scheduling, and directing staff activities to ensure timely and efficient task completion.

Serve as the primary contact for ensuring that work schedules and projects are properly staffed and executed to meet Zoo Knoxville's operational needs.

Provide leadership, guidance, and support to facilities staff, foster collaboration across departments.

Report directly to the Assistant Director of Facilities, Director of Facilities, and COO, depending on project scope.

Facility Maintenance & Oversight:

Maintain the safety, cleanliness, appearance, and functionality of all zoo grounds, buildings, utilities, and facilities, including public, animal, and support areas.

Coordinate and manage external contractors for maintenance, repair, and construction projects in collaboration with internal teams.

Project & Event Support:

Manage and assist with installation, setup, and teardown of temporary exhibits and special events; support event execution as needed.

Training, Compliance & Safety:

Promote a culture of safety by enforcing policies and procedures and providing appropriate training in tool and equipment use.

Ensure all staff meet required training standards and understand zoo safety protocols.

Monitor and improve individual and team performance through coaching and corrective actions as necessary.

Administrative Duties:

Manage administrative functions such as scheduling, documentation, budgeting, and procurement of tools, materials, and supplies.

Assist in strategic planning and prepare budget recommendations for facility maintenance and upgrades.

Maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with all internal policies and procedures, including adherence to the employee handbook.

Provide high-quality customer service to internal and external stakeholders.

Support Zoo Knoxville's commitment to sustainability and core values in all aspects of the role.

Perform hands‑on manual labor, often outdoors and in varying weather conditions.

Must be available to work weekends, holidays, irregular hours, and respond to after‑hours emergencies.

wear a Zoo‑issued uniform or business casual attire with a name tag.

Perform administrative and operational duties related to the role as required.

Additional duties as assigned by the Director of Facilities, COO, or CEO.

Strong understanding of facility systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and utility infrastructure.

Familiarity with groundskeeping, landscaping, and building maintenance practices.

Knowledge of construction methods, materials, and vendor coordination.

Proficiency in using maintenance and work order software systems.

Leadership and Management Skills:

Proven ability to lead, motivate, and manage staff with professionalism and accountability.

Strong organizational and planning skills; capable of coordinating multiple projects simultaneously.

Experience with staff scheduling, performance evaluation, and corrective action planning.

Thorough knowledge of OSHA, ADA, EPA, USDA, AZA, TWRA, and other relevant regulatory standards.

Ability to train staff in equipment use, safety procedures, and compliance requirements.

Ability to work collaboratively with cross‑functional teams and external contractors.

Administrative and Budgetary Competence:

Experience developing and managing departmental budgets, procurement processes, and cost control measures.

Ability to track and maintain accurate records for inspections, permits, work orders, and safety documentation.

Ability to perform manual labor and work outdoors in all weather conditions.

Comfortable working in proximity to animals and navigating zoo environments safely.

The individual in this position should have a minimum of five years of experience in the construction industry/ facility maintenance position (two of which should be in a supervisory position) and have a technical and/or trade school degree in construction management/ facility maintenance or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience. OSHA 10 certification for General Industry, AALSO Level 1 and AFO certification are preferable but not required.

High school diploma

Technical and/or trade school degree in construction management/facility maintenance or a related field or equivalent combination of education and experience

Competent computer skills and familiarity with Microsoft Office, Word, Excel and PowerPoint.

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 weekends 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. Need Help?

We're here to help! For questions regarding position qualifications or application procedures, please contact Knoxville Zoo directly.

For technical questions regarding the Applicant Tracking system, please contact the Applicant Tracking help desk using the Request Technical Help link below.

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