Seasonal Animal Keeper - Small Mammals

The Small Mammal Seasonal Keeper is responsible for caring for a diverse group of animals including Nigerian Dwarf Goats, Llamas, Meishan Pig, Miniature Donkey, Indian Peafowl, Trumpeter Swan, Koi, King’s Island Wallaby, Red Panda,  Egyptian Fruit Bats, Cotton Top Tamarins, and Japanese Macaques. Seasonal Keepers will not work directly with Japanese Macaque troop due to potential Herpes B exposure. Opportunity to work with Egyptian Fruit Bats is dependent on previous rabies vaccination status. Additionally, the Seasonal Animal Keeper supports our Zoo Mission which is to inspire an appreciation of the natural world through conservation, education, research, and recreation.

Essential Functions

• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.
• Provides for husbandry needs of all animals in care by participating in daily cleaning, diet preparation, feeding, enrichment, and daily observations.
• Responsible for daily observation of animal health and welfare. Reports abnormal behavior and problems to area supervisor. Maintains accurate records of animal collection daily.
• Cooperate and assist with veterinary treatments and instructions, which may include safely working free-contact situations.
• 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.
• Performs minor repairs and improvements of exhibits under supervision
• Identifies and communicates with maintenance repairs needed for the safety of animals, visitors, and staff as well as overall upkeep of the facilities.
• 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.

Competencies

• Resourceful – Understanding of or can 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 maintain composure in an environment that can be stressful.
• Independent – Must be able to operate independently, exercise initiative and demonstrate capacity for detail and follow-up.
• Positive – Must be a positive, effective team member and be able to establish professional working relationships.
• Communicator – Communicates clearly, both verbal and written. Effective listening skills.
• Critical Thinker – Ability to make decisions while under pressure or solve complex problems that arise daily.
• Innovative – Ability to propose solutions to areas of concern as related to animal care.
• Efficient – Ability to complete task in a thorough but quick manner.
• Customer-oriented – Always exercises professional customer service skills. Interacts with m many different types of people and situations.
• Team Player – Collaborates with area supervisor and team to achieve common husbandry goals.

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 regularly exposed to all types
• of weather conditions including extreme heat and cold, snow, hail, wind, and rain. Most of the job tasks are completed outside. Some work is required in small and/or confined spaces. Incumbents are exposed to noisy environments such
• as mowers and motors.

Experience Required

• Four-year college degree, or currently pursuing a degree in Biology, Zoology, or other science related major.
• Previous experience in a zoo setting is preferred.
• Intermediate word processing skills.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office required. 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 to operate various equipment, including carts and large vehicles.
• 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
• First Aid/CPR Training

Further Comments

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.

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

• $11/hour