Seasonal Zoo Ready Labourer

Take the next step in your career at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo and help create a welcoming and memorable experience on the grounds  The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is seeking a seasonal Zoo Ready Labourer to help ensure that the zoo is ready to welcome thousands of visitors of every age each day This role plays an integral part in ensuring that Zoo grounds and facilities have been tidied as well as that pathways are safe and ready to go. Beyond daily upkeep, this role also sets up, supports, and tears down equipment and supplied special events at the zoo, including Zoo Lights. 

Our Purpose | We act for wildlife; saving species and inspiring people to join us. 

Our Core Values | Drive impact, nurture connection, cultivate hope, and be bold. 

Contract:

• Start Date: November 2025
• End Date: May 2026

What you will do:  

• Perform daily 'Zoo Ready' tasks including power washing all public pathways, garbage receptacles, picnic tables, benches, patios, playgrounds (bi-weekly or as needed), and building exteriors.
• Maintain cleanliness of the North and West parking lots, including power washing pathways and waste bins.
• Assist in the setup and dismantling of event equipment, including stages, tents, tables, and chairs, ensuring alignment with event contracts and guest expectations.
• Clean and prepare furniture and equipment for events and special experiences such as weddings.
• Operate various small and large equipment as required to effectively carry out duties.
• Participate in the setup and takedown of the annual Zoo Lights event.
• Support horticulture teams in winter tasks including snow removal, ice checks and chipping, sanding, and application of de-icing materials.
• Perform additional tasks assigned by the Supervisor to support overall zoo operations.

What you will bring:   

• At least 1 year of experience in related roles
• A high school diploma is preferred
• Must have good communication skills
• Excellent organization skills to stay on track with Zoo Ready tasks
• Knowledge of color and symmetry is an asset
• A solid work ethic
• A understanding of basic electrical systems is an asset

Working Conditions:   

• All weather conditions including, rain, snow and extreme cold
• Operation of small and large equipment such as gators and man lifts
• Physical demands (heavy lifting, walking, etc.), tight spaces and pungent odors working near animals

The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is an outdoor facility and all staff working at the zoo must be comfortable working in a large variety of outdoor conditions. The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo follows the advice of Environment Canada when responding to temperature and air quality issues.

What the Zoo Offers:   

• Discounts on food, beverage, and merchandise
• Participation in the Staff Pass Benefit plan 
• A fun, rewarding work environment and the opportunity to work in a park full of wild animals 

Are you ready to join one of Canada's leaders in wildlife conservation? If this position suits your skills, experience and personal attributes, we want to talk to you.   

Apply by doing the following:

1. Watch this video about the conservation work being done at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo. )  
2. Submit your resume with an optional cover letter via our online application system. 
3. Fill in the Application questions:
   • If hired, when are you available to start?
   • What are your hourly wage expectations?
   • Please describe any experience you have had with event set-up or teardowns.
   • Please describe your availability

Applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada.   

If this position is a fit for you, we encourage you to apply with a resume and cover letter online by November 10, 2025 at 4pm MST.   

The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo strives to cultivate a workplace in which everyone feels welcome and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. As a conservation organization, we respect and value the diversity of all life and come together as individuals and teammates to achieve the organization's mission and vision. We recognize the value of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and work to advance our culture to ensure diverse viewpoints are heard and everyone has an equitable chance to succeed and thrive.    

All candidates are thanked for their applications and advised that only those selected for interviews will be contacted.