This job is no longer available.
This position is under the direct supervision of the Large Mammal Supervisor and is responsible for performing a variety of tasks related to animal care of reticulated giraffe, okapi, yellow-backed duiker, black rhino, addax, Hartmann’s Mountain zebra, Bactrian camel, and red river hog, many of which are part of active breeding programs.
- The following duties are essential to this position.
- To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.
- These are not to be construed as exclusive or all inclusive.
- Other duties may be required and assigned.
- Provides for husbandry needs of all animals in care by participating in daily cleaning, diet preparation, feeding, training, enrichment, and daily observations.
- Responsible for daily observation of animal health and welfare.
- Reports abnormal behavior and problems to area supervisor.
- Maintains accurate daily records of animal collection.
- Cooperates and assists with veterinary treatments and instructions, which may include safely working free- contact situations.
- Participates in public outreach such as membership programs and keeper chats.
- Adheres to established animal handling, neonate, and related safety protocols.
- Participates in established animal escape drills and procedures.
- Under supervision, captures, restrains and transports animals.
- Participates in protected contact animal training for husbandry and medical needs using operant conditioning.
- Identifies and communicates with maintenance repairs needed for the safety of animals, visitors and staff as well as overall upkeep of the facilities.
- Performs minor repairs and improvements of exhibits under supervision.
- Functions effectively in both team and individual settings, and works toward adopting and creating best animal welfare practices.
- Collaborates with area supervisor and team to achieve common husbandry goals.
- Actively supports area policies and procedures, mission, vision, values, and strategic plan of the Blank Park Zoo.
- Other duties as assigned.
Competencies
- Resourceful - Understanding of, or has the ability to, research all applicable topics as they relate to modern zoological management, operations of an attraction and customer service.
- Flexible - Ability to handle a flexible workload with a variety of assignments while also maintaining composure in an environment that can be stressful.
- Independent - Must be able to operate independently, exercise initiative, and demonstrate a capacity for detail and follow-up.
- Positive - Must be a positive, effective team member and be able to establish professional working relationships.
- Clear communication skills, both verbal and written
- Critical thinking- Ability to make decisions while under pressure or solve complex problems that arise on a daily basis
- Innovative - Ability to propose solutions to areas of concern related to animal care.
- Efficient- Ability to complete tasks in a thorough but quick manner.
- Customer–oriented – Must be able to exercise professional customer service skills at all times, with many different types of people and in all situations
Work Environment
- While performing the duties of the job, the incumbent is regularly required to stand, walk on even terrain, climb, and utilize manual dexterity to use various tools, machines, and equipment.
- The incumbent is occasionally exposed to all types of weather conditions including extreme heat and cold, snow, hail, wind, and rain. Some work is required in small and/or confined spaces.
- Incumbents are exposed to noisy environments such as mowers and motors.
Physical Requirements
- The physical requirements described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.
- Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to successfully perform the essential functions.
Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles and the like.
- Never
- Occasionally
- Constantly
Moving self in different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments including tight and confined spaces.
- Never
- Occasionally
- Constantly
Remaining in a stationary position, often standing or sitting for prolonged periods.
- Never
- Occasionally
- Constantly
Moving about to accomplish tasks or moving from one worksite to another.
- Never
- Occasionally
- Constantly
Adjusting or moving objects up to 50 pounds in all directions.
- Never
- Occasionally
- Constantly
Communicating with others to exchange information.
- Never
- Occasionally
- Constantly
Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers.
- Never
- Occasionally
- Constantly
Operating machinery and/or power tools.
- Never
- Occasionally
- Constantly
Operating motor vehicles or heavy equipment.
- Never
- Occasionally
- Constantly
Assessing the accuracy, neatness and thoroughness of the work assigned.
- Never
- Occasionally
- Constantly
Driving.
- Never
- Occasionally
- Constantly
Stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling –
- Never
- Occasionally
- Constantly
Reaching with hands and arms.
- Never
- Occasionally
- Constantly
Tasting or smelling.
- Never
- Occasionally
- Constantly
Vision
- Close vision;
- Distant vision;
- Color vision;
- Peripheral vision;
- Depth perception;
- Ability to adjust focus
Lifting Requirement.
- > than 50 pounds
- Up to 50 pounds
- Up to 40 pounds
- Up to 25 pounds
- Up to 10 pounds
- Additional eligibility requirements
- Must be insurable to drive a zoo vehicle.
- Must be able to maintain work hours that will serve the needs of the Blank Park Zoo.
- Must be able or willing to learn how to operate various equipment, including UTVs, trailers, large vehicles, and a skid loader.
- Must be able to maintain calm and act professionally in all situations such as emergencies and guest interactions.
- Licenses/Certifications
- Valid Iowa motor vehicle license
- Willing to obtain First Aid/CPR Training
- Other Duties
- Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job.
- Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Experience Required
- 4 year college degree and paid experience in the zoo field.
- Experience along with a college degree can be interchangeable at a rate of 1 year of college to 1 year of experience.
- Experience with Microsoft office, Excel spreadsheets, and Google drive are preferred or ability to obtain.
Further Comments
- Blank Park Zoo is an equal opportunity employer and give employment and promotional consideration without regard to race, color, sex, religion, age, disability, disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam era, and any other protected class as required by local, state, or federal law.
Perks
We seek applicants for employment who are dedicated, hardworking and seek fulfilling employment. In return Blank Park Zoo offers competitive income, benefits, and an excellent working environment.
Salary
- From $17/hour
