Job Description

Construction And Maintenance Worker HVAC / Refrigeration

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is an international, nonprofit conservation organization with two front doors: the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. We integrate wildlife health and care, science, and education to develop sustainable conservation solutions.

How You Will Impact Our Mission The Construction and Maintenance Worker supports San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's mission and vision of saving species worldwide, by combining their trade technical expertise with high internal customer service, to take the best possible care of assigned facilities. The Construction and Maintenance Worker HVAC / Refrigeration maintains, repairs and optimizes heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems across facilities, to ensure reliability and availability of temperature-sensitive environments for wildlife and guests. This position reports to C&M Lead, Supervisor or Manager.

What You Will Do

• Maintains and repairs HVAC and refrigeration systems, including air handlers, chillers, split systems, and refrigerators. Uses CMMS or equivalent system and monitors radio throughout the shift to respond to, record, and complete preventative and reactive maintenance work orders.
• Performs inspections, diagnostics, and system testing. Follows SOPs and partners with leadership on updates to improve safety, consistency, and efficiency.
• Collaborates with other trades and oversees external vendors to complete shared projects and urgent work, ensuring quality and site alignment.
• Coordinates with internal teams to minimize disruption and provide five-star internal customer service.
• Mentors and supports team members by sharing HVAC expertise and helping others navigate internal systems, culture, and professional approach.
• Provides occasional after-hours support for urgent needs.

What We Are Looking For

Job Experience

• Minimum of four (4) years of journey-level HVAC/Refrigeration experience required.
• Completion of a certified apprenticeship program required.

Education And Certifications

• High School Diploma Required.
• Valid California Drivers License Upon Hire Required.
• EPA 608 Universal Certification within 60 Days Required.

Skills And Knowledge

• Journey-level knowledge of HVAC controls, refrigerant handling, and energy-efficient practices.
• Safely and properly handle tools in adherence with California OSHA regulations and workplace health & safety requirements.
• Commitment to coaching others and ability to thrive in a diverse environment.
• Understanding of building codes and quality standards related to HVAC and Refrigeration.
• Understand, interpret and work from blueprints and drawings.

Some Of The Rewards You Will Enjoy As A Team Member

• Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• Family Passes
• Complimentary Tickets
• Free Parking at the San Diego Zoo & San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• Local and In-House Discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellness Program

Important Details

• Location: San Diego, CA
• Position Type: Hourly Full-Time Non-Exempt Union Position - If selected, there will be fees and dues to be paid to the union
• Hourly Rate: $42.55

About The Salary Ranges

The posted salary range represents the full compensation potential for this role over time. Initial hiring offers are typically made within the lower to mid portion of the range and are based on a combination of relevant experience, skills, qualifications, internal equity, and organizational considerations. Placement near the top of the range is generally reserved for individuals who demonstrate sustained performance, growth, and expanded responsibilities in the role over time.

At San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, we celebrate our differences and foster a culture of belonging. Diversity strengthens our employees, enriches our guests' experiences, deepens our connection to our community, and supports the wildlife we serve.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.

If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete an application, please email your request to sdzwacareers@sdzwa.org and provide the job title and location to which you are applying.

As a Federal Contractor, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is required to participate in the E-Verify Program to confirm eligibility to work in the United States. We are not offering sponsorship for this position at this time.

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a drug free workplace.

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