Decision-making: Must have independent and critical thinking ability to respond appropriately to expected and unexpected animal care situations. Must be able to problem solve based on experience and observation and must be able to follow proper procedures. Prepares food and water for animals, Loads and unloads food from trucks, Feeds animals
Observes assigned animals
Safety:
- Must be able to safely manage the daily care of non-domesticated wild animals representing multiple dangerous species.
- This requires the knowledge of and ability to follow SOPs in each animal area.
- Maintains appropriate health and behavior records on assigned animals. Provides species-appropriate enrichment to assigned animals.
- Participates in assisting medical staff in treating wildlife and moving animals
- Performs minor or routine maintenance on habitat enclosures. Reports maintenance needs. Operates a variety of light and medium equipment.
Professionalism:
- Employees are expected to abide by the SDZWA Rules of Engagement. Must foster a positive work environment that promotes trust and integrity. Must be able to accept responsibility and be accountable. Must make decisions that support the goals of the organization.
- Cleans habitat areas, pools, animal sleeping areas and service areas
- Reports abnormal conditions
- Cleans and disinfects utensils, work tools and containers
- Participates in and supports animal training programs
- Administers prescribed medication and keeps feeding records
Flexibility/Adaptability:
- Must be able to quickly process and respond to novel situations with professionalism and clear judgment.
- Must be able to accept irregular shift times, last minute schedule changes, variance in workload, and changing of daily tasks.
- Must be able to respond appropriately to the animals’ dynamic social and physical states.
- Must be able to work at variable locations (Zoo, Safari Park, field, CS).
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
- Seeking candidates with a minimum of 1 year experience working at an AZA accredited facility. At least 1 year of experience with both large carnivore and hoof stock is preferred.
JOB EXPERIENCE
- Education, training and/or experience which would clearly demonstrate the essential functions, knowledge and skills outlined.
- Examples would be 12 to 16 college credit hours in zoology, animal biology or animal husbandry; or, work experience in a Zoo or similar environment where appropriate knowledge and skills in animal care could be acquired preferred.
EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS
- High School Diploma Required
- California Driver License within 30 Days required
SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
- Knowledge of:
- Animal behavior
- Animal biology and zoology
- Care, feeding and handling of wild animals
- Safety practices around wild animals
- Techniques for restraining or capturing wild animals
- Public Speaking
Ability to:
- Respond to cautions from co-workers
- Monitor animal behavior and appearance
- Operate motorized equipment and vehicles
- Use computer programs (Word processing, spreadsheets, PowerPoint, and Internet)
- 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
- Adhere to the organization’s policies, procedures and regulations
- Competently perform the essential functions outlined above
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
- Free Parking at the San Diego Zoo & San Diego Zoo Safari Park
- Local and In-House Discounts
- Employee Assistance Program
- Wellness Program
