Facility

Animal World & Snake Farm Zoo

Closing Date

Description

Animal World & Snake Farm Zoo is a 6-acre facility that is currently expanding onto an additional 30 acres of land. As we continue this process, we are looking for an experienced professional to fill the Senior Zoo Keeper position.

Under the supervision of the Deputy Director, the Senior Zoo Keeper will manage the associated animal care staff as well as oversee the general operations, exhibit maintenance and proper care of over 60 different species.

In accordance with the departmental policies and procedures, the Senior Zoo Keeper is accountable for the management of the associated department— including animals and staff— to ensure the appropriate care, maintenance and improvement of all animals and zoo exhibits. This position will perform professional zoo keeping duties as well as administrative duties associated with the provision of the services, including husbandry and record keeping as well as human resource and administrative duties.

Key accountabilities include (but are not limited to):
-Manage delegated functions and everyday tasks
-Provide direct supervision of animal care staff
-Provide proper staff training on animal care, company policy, use of tools and equipment, standard operating procedures, animal handling and capture and restraint training
-Ensure proper decisions are made on the care, maintenance and improvement of exhibits and animals
-Manage animal collection (including animal care, nutrition and husbandry, record keeping and proper documentation)
-Provide knowledge in a range of animal husbandry and breeding techniques for exotic, domestic, native and non-native animals, legislation, animal training and animal enrichment, conservation studies, exhibit construction, and any other background information regarding to exhibitory needs and the needs of any animal in the zoo’s collection
-Communicate veterinary and animal husbandry concerns and information in a timely manner to team and appropriate management staff
-Ensure compliance to all animal-related and park procedures to maximize safety for both staff and animals, including all established policies and operational procedures
-Assesses facility needs and coordinates exhibit maintenance and minor improvements
-Excel in guest interaction and customer services
-Confirm that exhibits are presented to maximize a positive guest experience and meet zoo goals for cleanliness and maintenance
-Provide a positive experience for guests and offer knowledge and information when applicable
-Acts as Dangerous Animal Recovery Team member

Education and Pre-requisites

-7+ years experience with an animal care and husbandry, preferably in a zoo setting
-3+ years experience with an upper-level supervisory position
-Strong written and oral communication skills
-Keen attention to detail
-Able to work holidays, weekends and irregular hours
-Completed background check and verifiable work history
-In good physical condition (able to life a minimum of 50 pounds)
-Appropriate personal appearance
-Ability to work both individually and as a team
-Willingness to learn and grow with our facility

Compensation and benefits

Salary will be commensurate with experience.

Application instructions

Along with resume and cover letter, please send a comprehensive list of all the species in which you have experience with. All documentation can be sent to Hannah Mulligan, Deputy Director at hannahm@hczoo.com