Overview
Do you enjoy fixing things, being outdoors, and making spaces clean, safe, and functional? We’re looking for a Facilities Operation Technician to support the day-to-day upkeep of our campuses—primarily at the ENC Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary in Modjeska Canyon, with additional work at our Newport Beach location. From maintaining trails and public areas to assisting with irrigation, minor repairs, and special events, this role is perfect for someone who’s hands-on, detail-oriented, and comfortable working in all weather conditions.
If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and help keep our spaces beautiful and visitor-ready, we’d love to hear from you!
The Facilities Operation Technician is responsible for facility maintenance and operational support at the Environmental Nature Center (ENC), ENC Nature Preschool, and ENC Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary. This role includes facility upkeep, assistance with habitat management, and event/program support across all ENC facilities. The position requires outdoor work in varying weather conditions, performing physical tasks, and maintaining the grounds and facilities to high standards.
Facility Maintenance:
1. Responsible for maintaining all ENC buildings. Perform routine maintenance and repairs, ensuring facilities are safe, clean, and operational.
2. Maintain the cleanliness and safety of ENC grounds by regularly inspecting trails, public spaces, restrooms, and parking areas.
3. Empty trash/recycling receptacles as necessary and keep the facility free of litter.
4. Provide input on facility design and improvements, contributing to future enhancement projects.
5. Address facility-related issues promptly, working closely with the Facility Manager.
6. Oversee outside contractors working on facility-related projects.
7. Perform basic carpentry tasks such as repairing fencing, signage, decking, or furniture.
8. Conduct basic plumbing repairs, including unclogging drains, fixing leaks, and replacing fixtures.
9. Perform basic electrical maintenance, such as replacing light fixtures, outlets, switches, and checking outdoor lighting systems.
10. Conduct regular safety inspections of facilities and infrastructure (e.g., play areas, railings, walkways), reporting hazards or addressing them as needed.
11. Assist with maintaining accessibility features such as ramps, paths, and railings in compliance with ADA standards.
Daily Operations:
1. Open and close the grounds, ensuring safety and readiness for visitors by completing opening and closing checklists.
2. Maintain the cleanliness and safety of trails, streams, pond systems, and facilities, ensuring proper pump and irrigation functionality.
3. Perform daily litter removal at all campuses.
4. Assist with facility upkeep, including restocking supplies and maintaining clean restrooms, particularly at Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary.
5. Support special event setup and staffing, including occasional weekend or evening duties.
6. Perform general custodial tasks…
Qualifications:
1. Commitment to the mission, vision, and core values of the Environmental Nature Center.
2. Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and demonstrate flexibility in handling various tasks.
3. Knowledge of California native plants, plant pests, pathogens, and horticultural techniques preferred.
4. Proficiency in operating power tools and gardening equipment; capable of engaging in physical tasks, including lifting
up to 50 pounds and traversing uneven terrain.
Required Skills:
5. Ability to work in various weather conditions and maintain punctual attendance.
6. Successful interaction with diverse audiences, including volunteers, students, and the general public.
7. Fingerprinting for a background check and a valid driver’s license with reliable transportation are required.
8. Familiarity with hand and power tools for maintenance and repair work.
9. Basic understanding of electrical and plumbing systems relevant to facility upkeep.
10. Ability to read and interpret basic building
Preferred Skills:
1. Effective communication skills, both oral and written, with the ability to follow instructions and policies
independently.
2. Strong organizational skills.
3. Ability to engage positively with a diverse range of individuals, including volunteers, students, and the general public.
4. Ability to “figure it out”. Troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities related to facility systems.
5. Ability to prioritize tasks and respond promptly to urgent maintenance needs.
About Environmental Nature Center
Founded in 1972, the Environmental Nature Center (ENC) is a world class facility that provides transformative experiences resulting in a deeper connection to nature. The ENC’s mission is to provide quality education through hands-on experience with nature. Our vision is to provide equitable access and inspire all to protect the natural world by serving as our community’s leader in ecological responsibility, sustainable practices and environmental education. The ENC connects over 50,000 community members to nature annually through school field trips, Traveling Naturalist programs, community programs, nature camps, service learning programs, and professional development programs.
The ENC’s 5-acre Newport Beach campus features 15 California native plant communities, wildlife habitat, walking trails, and sustainably designed construction. The ENC’s LEED Platinum certified facilities are nationally recognized and provide an essential connection between nature and the built environment.
