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HVAC - Head Keeper

Cincinnati Zoo
life insurance, paid time off, 401(k)
United States, Ohio, Cincinnati
3400 Vine Street (Show on map)
Sep 11, 2025
The Maintenance Department of the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is looking for a dynamic individual to join their team as a HVAC Head Keeper.
Position Summary: The HVAC Head Keeper is responsible for leading and supporting the daily operations of the HVAC team, ensuring the installation, servicing, repair, and preventative maintenance of all HVAC systems across the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden's properties. This leadership role also includes hands-on responsibilities, stepping in to perform technical work as needed to support the team and maintain essential operations.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:


  • Key responsibilities include managing and assigning daily work orders, overseeing the quality and timeliness of HVAC-related tasks, and consulting with the Team Leader when appropriate.
  • The candidate will perform work on HVAC equipment in a variety of animal areas as well as some non-animal HVAC features.
  • The HVAC Head Keeper will also assist with securing quotes and coordinating contractors for projects that exceed the capacity of in-house staff.
  • Typical HVAC systems and equipment include boilers, chillers, refrigerant systems, rooftop units, motors, pumps, and other mechanical systems throughout Zoo facilities.
  • As with all members of the maintenance team, the HVAC Head Keeper may occasionally be asked to assist with general facilities work, which can range from seasonal projects like hanging holiday lights to urgent needs such as unclogging drains or maintaining train tracks.
  • This position requires staying current with industry standards and developments while building and maintaining a strong, dependable team that reflects the mission and core values of the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden.


Qualifications & Skills:
The candidate should have a history of running a crew of HVAC technicians, along with formal training specializing in HVAC systems. Five years' experience in the industry is preferred; or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job. Must have a valid driver's license and be insurable to drive a zoo vehicle. Must be organized and able to work independently without close supervision and be able to work a flexible schedule, to meet emergency needs. The successful candidate is required to work closely with animal department personnel, maintenance personnel and to interact cooperatively with other employees, Zoo visitors, guests and volunteers.
Working Conditions/Other Requirements: Employment is contingent upon successfully passing a pre-employment drug & nicotine screen & background check. While performing the duties of this job the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; climb or balance; grasp; and negotiate stairs and ladders. In addition, the employee is regularly exposed to hazardous conditions, equipment, and situations & outside weather conditions. Employee will be required to successfully complete all related trainings for the role, including but not limited to: Arc Flash, Fork Lift, Aerial Lift, etc. This position will involve the use of forklifts and aerial lifts. Must be able to lift and move 50 pounds without mechanical assistance. Must have a valid driver's license and must be insurable through the Zoo's carrier.
Position Details & Benefits:


  • This is a full-time (40 hours per week with benefits), union position, which is subject to the successful completion of a probationary (or trial period) and the deduction of union dues.
  • Starting pay rate, per the collective bargaining agreement is $32.75/hour.
  • We offer a highly competitive benefits package supporting our employees' Total Well-Being, including comprehensive & affordable medical, dental & vision coverage (starting the first day of the month following date of hire); free mental health counseling, Employee Assistance Programs, 401(k) plan with company match; flexible spending accounts; generous paid time off (200 PTO hours accrued throughout the first year of service, 80 of which is loaded into the PTO bank upon hire); company-paid disability & life insurance; park discounts and free passes.

To Apply: Please include a work history/resume and letter of interest with your online application
This is an immediate need, so please apply soon!
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