Facility and Grounds Coordinator

Do you enjoy working outdoors and using your hands to solve problems? Are you looking for a role that combines maintenance skills with mission-driven work? Would you like to be part of a team that supports conservation and education in one of Nebraska’s most beautiful natural areas? Apply to join the Fontenelle Forest team as our full-time Facilities and Grounds Coordinator!

To Apply: Send a cover letter, resume or description of work history and related experience, and three professional references to [email protected]. Please reference “Facilities and Grounds Coordinator” in the subject line.

JOB SUMMARY                                                              

The Facilities and Grounds Coordinator plays a critical role in ensuring the safety, cleanliness, and functionality of Fontenelle Forest’s buildings, grounds, and equipment. This hands-on role supports our mission by maintaining public spaces and infrastructure used by thousands of visitors annually. This full-time position works a Tuesday–Saturday schedule with occasional evening, weekend, and urgent-response availability. This position reports to the Director of Operations or designee.

ORGANIZATION

Founded in 1913, Fontenelle Forest is one of Nebraska’s oldest conservation organizations and one of the largest private nature centers in the nation. Fontenelle Forest owns and manages Fontenelle Forest in Bellevue and Neale Woods in Omaha. The properties encompass over 2,100 acres of forest, prairie, and wetlands along the Missouri River in the geographically significant Loess Hills. Fontenelle Forest aspires to be a national leader in environmental stewardship and education and the region’s premier nature center. Fontenelle Forest embraces the values of Integrity, Stewardship, Excellence, Engagement, and Sustainability.

Fontenelle Forest values its employees and is committed to maintaining a positive working environment; a culture and a value proposition that attracts and retains top, diverse talent. Beyond a personal commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, we are looking for candidates with a strong commitment to integrating equity and inclusion best practices into programs and services. People who have lived experience in historically marginalized and excluded communities are especially encouraged to apply.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform and document general maintenance and repairs for buildings, fixtures, appliances, and outdoor infrastructure
• Train and supervise facilities and grounds volunteers; maintain related documentation
• Coordinate and monitor vendors for repairs and routine services
• Maintain public building grounds, including vegetation management and snow/ice removal
• Support land stewardship activities such as trail maintenance and emergency response
• Provide logistical support for programs, events, and space rentals
• Maintain building safety and security (keys, alarms, emergency response, etc.)
• Perform other duties as assigned

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or GED required; associate’s degree and/or certifications preferred
• Minimum 4 years of building maintenance experience
• Minimum 2 years of outdoor maintenance experience
• At least 1 year of contractor/vendor management
• Familiarity with safe use of power and hand tools

• Valid driver's license and ability to pass background check
• Willingness to work flexible schedule, including some evenings/weekends
• Adult/Pediatric First Aid/CPR certification (or willingness to obtain within 6 months)
• Willingness to complete Wildland Firefighter and Chainsaw trainings (within 9 months)

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

·        Regularly lift 50 pounds, occasionally up to 70 pounds

·        Hike varied terrain carrying equipment up to 25 pounds

·        Climb ladders, kneel, bend, stoop, and stand for extended periods

·        Operate trucks with trailers, UTVs, power tools, and groundskeeping equipment

·        Work in all weather conditions and rugged outdoor environments

Fontenelle Forest is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, political ideology or status as a Vietnam-era or special disabled veteran in the administration of any of its employment related policies and practices.