Wonder Gardens, Facilities Technician, I

I. Job Summary

Joining the Wonder Gardens team offers the opportunity to work at one of Southwest Florida’s most beloved attractions. The Facilities Technician I is responsible for maintaining the gardens and facilities to the highest standards, ensuring a safe, clean, and welcoming environment that enhances the guest experience. This role requires integrity, accountability, attention to detail, and commitment to ongoing professional development.

II. Key Responsibilities
General Maintenance & Operations

Contribute to a positive and collaborative work environment.

Perform minor building, plumbing, electrical, painting, and general repair tasks as needed.

Maintain inventory of maintenance tools, equipment, and supplies.

Assist the Operations Coordinator with larger projects, including construction or improvement of enclosures, exhibits, fencing, and other property features.

Maintain cleanliness and organization of work areas, including trash and recycling duties.

Ensure cleanliness of the property, including restrooms, public walkways, and parking areas.


Guest Experience & Public Interaction

Provide accurate wildlife information and conservation messaging through daily guest interactions.

Maintain a friendly, courteous, and helpful attitude toward all visitors.

Always remain attentive to the needs of guests and the overall visitor experience.


Safety & Emergency Preparedness

Ensure a safe environment for guests, employees, volunteers, and animals.

Understand and follow all safety and emergency procedures.

Properly use personal protective equipment and safety tools.Prepare the gardens and wildlife for inclement weather and assist with post-event cleanup and repairs, including hurricane preparedness and recovery.


Regulatory Compliance

Direct local, state, and federal inspection agencies to appropriate operational areas upon arrival.

Ensure compliance with all applicable permitting, regulatory, and accreditation requirements.


Volunteers & Interns

Treat volunteers and student interns with respect and professionalism.

Support a positive and educational experience for volunteers and interns.


Scheduling & Events

Attend on-site special events, including those held outside of regular business hours.

Work weekends and occasional evenings as required.


III. Qualifications – Facilities Technician I
Education & Experience

High school diploma or GED required; technical or trade school education preferred.

Minimum of one year of experience in a maintenance-related field.


Skills & Abilities

Knowledge of and ability to perform basic maintenance and repair tasks.

Ability to safely operate hand and power tools.

Experience with plumbing, irrigation, and general maintenance preferred.

Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects, adjust priorities, and maintain attention to detail.

Excellent customer service and verbal communication skills.

Self-motivated with strong time-management skills.

Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and as part of a team.

Creative problem-solving abilities.


Additional Requirements

Commitment to the mission, vision, and values of the Wonder Gardens.

Ability to handle confidential information professionally and discreetly.

Reliable transportation to and from work.

Authorization to work in the United States.

Availability to work days, weekends, with occasional evenings.

Minimum three references of previous employment history and experience.


IV. Physical Requirements

Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, crouch, climb, and reach for extended periods of time.

Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds on a regular basis.

Ability to safely climb ladders and work at heights.

Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, humidity, rain, and direct sunlight.

Ability to use hand tools, power tools, and maintenance equipment safely and effectively.

Ability to perform repetitive tasks and manual labor.

Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations.

Ability to work around animals, landscaping equipment, and uneven terrain.