The Wildlife Care Specialist performs all job assignments with a positive attitude that supports San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's mission and vision of saving species worldwide by uniting our expertise in wildlife care and conservation science with our dedication to inspiring passion for nature and leading the fight against extinction. The Wildlife care specialist, under general supervision, feeds and provides for the general care and welfare of assigned wildlife (mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish, invertebrates or birds). This position reports to a Lead or Supervisor.
- This class is distinguished from the Senior Wildlife care specialist class in that the Wildlife care specialist works under supervision.
- The Wildlife care specialist performs a wide range of semi-routine functions at either the Zoo or San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
- This class also consistently demonstrates the desire and ability to engage in positive relationships with internal and external customers.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
- 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
- Elephant experience 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
- Education, training and/or experience, which would clearly demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities outlined.
- An example of which would be experience demonstrating these skills in a comparable zoological facility preferred.
- 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
- Local and In-House Discounts
- Employee Assistance Program
- Wellness Program
