Lead Wildlife Care Specialist Herpetology and Ichthyology - San Diego Zoo

The Lead Wildlife Care Specialist under general direction, supervises and participates in the feeding and general care and welfare of assigned habitat wildlife (mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish, invertebrates or birds). This position reports to the Wildlife Care Supervisor or Wildlife Care Manager.

WHAT YOU WILL DO 

• Assigns and supervises the work of Wildlife Care Specialist personnel 
• Responsible for the feeding and general care and welfare of assigned habitat wildlife 
• Administers prescribed medication and nutritional supplements 
• Keeps feeding records 
• Observes assigned wildlife 
• Reports abnormal conditions to superiors 
• Cleans habitat areas, pools, wildlife sleeping areas and service areas 
• Cleans and disinfects utensils, work tools and containers 
• Maintains health and behavior records on assigned wildlife 
• Answers questions from the public concerning habitat wildlife 
• Provides habitat security 
• Participates in capturing, incapacitating and moving habitat wildlife 
• Assists medical staff in treating wildlife 
• Performs minor or routine maintenance on habitat enclosures 
• Reports the need for major maintenance and repairs 
• Operates a variety of light and medium equipment 
• Performs minor or routine maintenance on habitat enclosures 
• Reports maintenance needs 
• Operates a variety of light and medium equipment 

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR 

Ability to assist in safely managing the daily care of non-domesticated wild animals representing multiple dangerous species. Experience with freshwater fish, reptiles, amphibians and aquatic LSS is preferred. 3 years of experience working with venomous animals and 1 year in Lead Animal Care or a Supervisor capacity is preferred. 

JOB EXPERIENCE 

• Education, training, and/or experience which would clearly demonstrate the essential functions, knowledge and skills outlined. And 
• Five years of experience as a Wildlife Care Specialist in a comparable zoological garden.

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS 

• Current valid California Driver’s License in good standing 

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE 

• Wildlife behavior 
• Animal biology; zoology 
• Care, feeding and handling of wildlife 
• Safety practices around wildlife 
• Techniques for restraining or capturing wildlife 
• San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's policies, procedures, and regulations 
• Effective leadership practices 
• Operate a motor vehicle, when required 
• Communicate and work effectively with others 
• Work in a diverse team environment and motivate others 
• Multi-task and prioritize 
• Understand and follow directions effectively 
• Deal tactfully and courteously with others 
• Competently perform the representative duties outlined above 
• Perform each essential job function at a high level 

SOME OF THE PERKS YOU WILL ENJOY AS A TEAM MEMBER

• Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• Family Passes
• Complimentary Tickets
• Local and In-House Discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellness Program

IMPORTANT DETAILS

• Location: San Diego, CA
• Position Type: Hourly Full-Time Non-Exempt Union Position - If selected, there will be fees and dues to be paid to the union
• Hourly Rate: $31.46