Job DescriptionMetro Parks Tacoma (MPT) is a CAPRA-accredited and AZA-accredited, independent park district that leads efforts to build a healthy, sustainable community.  Metro Parks Tacoma is located in Tacoma, Washington. The system is comprised of many different park facilities that offer residents a variety of recreational opportunities. From waterfront access to local neighborhood parks to large regional facilities and attractions, the MPT system is both a local community asset and regional destination.

OUR CORE VALUES
These eight core values will guide future decisions, business and operations, and the manner in which MPT treats staff, customers and the community:
•Innovation    •Excellence     •Equity    •Inclusiveness    •Sustainability   •Accountability •Safety  •FunNORTHWEST

NORTHWEST TREK WILDLIFE PARK
Northwest Trek Wildlife Park is a facility of Metro Parks Tacoma, an independent government agency creating healthy opportunities to play, learn and grow since 1907. A five-member Board of Park Commissioners governs Metro Parks Tacoma and is the policy determining body for the park district.

Northwest Trek Wildlife Park is dedicated to conservation, education and recreation by displaying, interpreting and researching native Northwest wildlife and natural habitats. We are nationally accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), which ensures rigorously high standards of animal welfare, veterinary care, conservation, education and more.

POSITION INFORMATION
Under the direction of the Horticulturist/Arborist, this position is responsible for performing a variety of duties related to the care of native flora at Northwest Trek.  Duties may include planting, weeding, mulching and pruning trees, shrubs and plants around the 725-acre facility.  Duties may also include invasive species removal, assisting with hazard tree removal and assisting in pesticide application as needed.

In the performance of their respective tasks and duties all employees are expected to conform to the following:

• Perform quality work within deadlines with or without direct supervision.

• Interact professionally with other employees, customers and suppliers.

• Work effectively as a team contributor on all assignments.

• Work independently while understanding the necessity for communicating and coordinating work efforts with other employees and organizations.

This position is an at-will position with no written or implied contractual agreement.

Essential Duties• Install, prune, water, and mulch native plants, shrubs, and trees.
• Transplant and pot-up plants in the nursery garden.
• Remove invasive species.
• Assist in the application of pesticides as needed.
• Assist in hazard tree removal as needed.
• Other related duties as assigned.
• Operate a Park District vehicle.
 

Minimum Qualifications
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Good oral communication skills.
• Positive, courteous and responsible.
• Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record.
 

Additional InformationHOURS:  Typically three days per week.  Hours and days may vary.

ENVIRONMENT:
Indoor and outdoor work environment.
Fumes, dust, pollen, and noise from equipment operation.

PHYSICAL ABILITIES:
Heavy lifting objects weighing up to 60 pounds.
Bending at the waist.
Stooping.
Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a variety of specialized equipment and hand and power tools.
Standing and walking for extended periods of time.
Walking over rough or uneven surfaces.

HAZARDS:
Working with machinery having sharp moving parts.
Working with potentially hazardous substances.

METRO PARKS TACOMA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.
All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, political affiliation, disability or any other merit factor. Members of ethnic minorities, women, special disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam-era, recently separated veterans, and other protected veterans, persons of disability and/or persons age 40 and over are encouraged to apply.

MPT employs only U.S. citizens and lawfully authorized non-U.S. citizens. All new employees must show employment eligibility verification as required by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

MPT is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact Human Resource (253) 305-1089 or angelas@tacomaparks.com.

Employment is subject to a national background check.

This position is an at-will position with no written or implied contractual agreement.