Senior Wildlife Care Specialist, Behavior - Full Time - San Diego Zoo Safari Park

The Senior Wildlife Care Specialist, Behavior under general supervision, performs a wide variety of functions in the training, handling and care of exhibited wildlife used for public appearances and contact, such as educational programs. This position reports to a Wildlife Care Supervisor or Manager.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Trains wildlife in new behaviors
• Reinforces trained behaviors
• Transports wildlife to exhibit or performances
• Assists Wildlife Care Specialists at performance
• Sets up props, stages or other performance areas
• Grooms wildlife for public appearance and health maintenance
• Controls wildlife to ensure public safety
• Prepares wildlife feed
• Feeds wildlife
• Administers prescribed medication and nutritional supplements
• Assists medical staff in treatment of assigned wildlife
• Keeps feeding, medication and other records regarding wildlife care
• Conducts special tours
• Makes informational presentations to the public
• Answers questions and provides information to the public regarding assigned wildlife

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR 

JOB EXPERIENCE

• Education, training and experience, which would clearly demonstrate the essential functions, knowledge and skills outlined; Or
• Two or more years’ experience as a Wildlife Care Specialist at San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance or comparable organization. 

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS

• Current valid California Driver’s License in good standing​​​​​​​

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

• Wildlife behavior
• Wildlife behavior modification
• Care, feeding and handling of wildlife
• Safety practices around wildlife
• San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance policies, procedures and regulations regarding the care, handling and training of exhibited wildlife
• Train and control wildlife
• Discriminate differences in wildlife vocalizations
• Monitor wildlife behavior
• Keep simple records
• Communicate and work effectively with others (verbal and written)
• Deal tactfully and courteously with the others in a diverse environment
• Respond to cautions from co-workers
• Monitor wildlife behavior and appearance
• Operate motorized equipment and vehicles
• Competently 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