Fossil Rim goes all-in on conservation. We produce over 150 Attwater’s Prairie Chicken chicks annually for US Fish & Wildlife Service release a program we’ve been involved in since 1990 to prevent their extinction, making April through July intense but incredibly rewarding. You’ll also support our growing involvement in Texas Parks and Wildlife’s Texas Horned Lizard project.

Summary/Purpose of Position: This position assists with the care and maintenance of the majority of the avian collection, which consists of two species of cranes and our Attwater Prairie Chicken flock. A major focus each year is the Attwater’s breeding season when chicks are raised and prepared for the release program. This position will also assist with the USFWS APC Recovery Program and SSP/SAFE recommendations. Additional responsibilities include the care and maintenance within the Texas Horned Lizard project as needed.  Maintain and expand Fossil Rim Wildlife Center’s image and awareness through public speaking and publication.

Specific/Mandatory Duties The essential responsibilities of the Animal Care Specialist: Avian include but are not limited to the following:

• Provide daily care and maintenance of the Avian collection
• Relief coverage for the Texas horned lizard collection
• Provide daily care of facilities, including cleaning and light maintenance
• Assist the Animal Care Department. with procedures as needed, consistent with the existing “Team” concept
• Attend Attwater’s Recovery Team, and all related meetings, when possible, with supervisor approval
• Assist the Avian Curator by producing needed reports and records
• Assist the Animal Health Department with daily treatment(s) when needed
• Assist and provide guidance to Support Services staff when work needs to be done at the facilities
• Regular and dependable attendance is required
• Be available for after-hours and weekend call out in emergencies
• Able to lift and carry 50 pounds
• Be able to bend over
• Ability to spend up to 2/3 of the work day standing/walking
• Ability to work outside all day in weather ranging from extreme heat, 100+ degrees to extreme cold, below freezing and in wet conditions
• Ability to drive and/or operate small maintenance equipment e.g., weed trimmer, mower, hand tools and truck
• Computer skills in PowerPoint, Word, Excel, and the use of the APC Database that Fossil Rim designed and uses to document the APC program
• Ensure compliance with Employee Handbook, Risk Management Plan, all other safety rules & procedures, the company vision, mission and goals

The secondary responsibilities of the A/C Specialist: Avian include but are not limited to the following:

• Enhancement of visitor experience and learning opportunities
• Interface with both the Environmental Engagement and the Marketing/Public Relations Departments as needed
• Assist the Animal Care Department with public monitoring and management when needed

Desired Qualities, Experience and Educational Skills:

• University Degree in Biology, Zoology, or related field, or 2 years’ experience in a professional avian collection preferred. Experience with galliformes desirable
• Interest in captive breeding/release programs
• Understanding of the biology of galliformes and other birds
• Experience in hand raising birds
• Public speaking experience
• Familiarity with PC’s and competent with Excel and Microsoft Word, and will also be trained on the Fossil Rim APC Database for all APC specific entries
• Work conduct will be of a mature, responsible, and professional manner
• Work as a team member
• Accept responsibility for the care of collection, beyond the daily care and husbandry

Work Requirements: This position is Essential to Fossil Rim throughout the year and during times when Fossil Rim is closed due to unexpected events, any Essential employee that is scheduled to work must work as scheduled. Usually a 5-day work week, often requiring flexibility and ability to work weekends and holidays. Irregular scheduling in which days may exceed 8hours, and weeks may exceed five days

Please submit your resume today!  We are a Non-Profit organization and an equal employment opportunity employer and will consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other protected classification under federal and state law.

Fossil Rim is an “at will” and equal opportunity employer. It should be noted that it is company policy to conduct background checks on potential new employees, inclusive of testing for drugs and controlled substance use.

Application Process

• Applicants must submit a resume.
• Candidates not meeting minimum requirements may not receive a response.
• Applicants selected for candidacy are required to attend an on-site working interview.

Payrate: To maintain internal equity, we have identified the pay range for this position at the Oakland Zoo to be between $27.81 to $28.45 per hour. An offer within this range will be determined by the experience and qualifications of a candidate and will be our best and final compensation offer, in alignment with Oakland Zoo\’s compensation philosophy.

Position Summary
Animal Keepers play a vital role on the ACCR team, taking care of the physical health and psychological well-being of the animals directly under their care. The Float Animal Keeper works across several different animal strings and has the opportunity to care for a variety of species, including lemurs, bats, otters, goats, sheep, cats, pigs, rabbits, alligators, tortoises, invertebrates, reptiles, amphibians, and ambassador animals. Work ranges from the physical tasks associated with feeding and maintenance of living areas to more analytical tasks of planning, record keeping, and communication.

The section also includes two support strings: commissary and night keeper. Commissary Keepers are responsible for prepping the majority of the zoo’s animal diets, maintaining diet records, ordering, and supply management. The Night Keeper duties include some commissary support, some diet prep, observation, feeding, and shifting animals throughout the zoo after the day shift leaves. The Night Keeper typically works alone in their duties.

This position is trained to cover the animal areas and support roles (commissary and night keeper) in the section. This position may require some night keeper shifts. Night Keeper shifts are typically 12:30pm – 9pm but will change over the course of the year to as late as 2:30pm – 11pm. This role will cover strings in the absence of the primary Animal Keeper(s) and will assist the primary keeper with duties and special projects as needed.

Essential Job Duties

• Use the tools of animal observation, enrichment, training and other management methods to ensure the best possible psychological well-being of the animals in their care
• Conduct ongoing assessment of their physical and psycho-social needs
• Design and implement steps to address these needs
• Implement Department/Zoo priorities as well as demonstrate the initiative and expertise to regularly find ways to make improvements
• Guide and support junior staff and volunteers as appropriate
• Represent the Zoo in a variety of public settings including press interviews, instructional classes and casual communication with Zoo guests
• Perform other related duties as required and assigned

Who You Are

• Minimum of 1 year full time or 2080 hours experience in the care of captive wildlife in the zoo field (preferably at an AZA or GFAS facility). This can include unpaid experience.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
• Willingness to work outside normal business hours including weekends, evenings, and holidays
• Knowledge of the habits and hazards of working with wild, dangerous animals; willingness to work with some physical risk while observing proper safety precautions
• Medical requirements: negative TB test within the last year, tetanus vaccine within the last 10 years, measles vaccine

Bonus if you have…

• Knowledge and experience in behavioral training theory and practical application
• Ability to inspire guests in casual (e.g., one on one) and formal (i.e., programs) venues to take action for conservation
• Bachelor’s degree in zoology, biology or a related field or a specialized Associate\’s degree (ex: Moorpark)

Work Environment – Environmental or atmospheric conditions commonly associated with the performance of the functions of this job.

• Work in indoor and outdoor environments in various weather conditions, sometimes in or around significant dirt and dust

Physical Considerations– The physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs. (i.e., feed sack) and move a minimum of 120 lbs. (i.e., hay bale)
• Able to walk long distances on uneven terrain in variable environmental conditions (e.g., steep, muddy, etc.)

Knowledge, Skills, and Qualities– May be representative, but not all-inclusive, of those knowledge, skills and abilities commonly associated with this position.

• Collaboration – builds trusting relationships with both internal and external stakeholders across our organization and community-wide and approaches differences of opinion with curiosity and humility.
• Communication – communicates respectfully and effectively with stakeholders across identities, both verbally and in writing
• Inclusive Culture – fosters a culture of mutual respect, transparency, collaboration and belonging which allows all employees to feel appreciated, included, and valued.
• Organization – strong attention to details and able to build and/or maintain efficient systems
• Time management – strong capabilities with a demonstrated ability to effectively prioritize multiple commitments
• Sustainability – oriented toward the mission and values of the Oakland Zoo and able to put those into practice by finding creative and resourceful ways to develop sustainable practices within your role and department
• Passion – wholeheartedly believes in, represents, and models Oakland Zoo’s mission and PRIDE values at all times
• Wildlife Aware – understands mission to support the conservation and welfare of animals at The Zoo, locally and globally. This is demonstrated by a willingness/passion to reflect this mission in all actions and to continue to learn how to take action for wildlife

Benefits

Oakland Zoo offers a comprehensive benefits package, including Health insurance, Dental insurance, Vision insurance, Flexible spending account, Retirement plan, Paid time off, Employee Assistance Program, and Zoo Membership options.

Application Process

• Applicants must submit a cover letter and resume. The cover letter should be one page and include a general overview of animal experience and why they are interested in this role.
• Candidates not meeting minimum requirements may not receive a response.
• Applicants selected for candidacy are required to attend an on-site working interview.

Payrate: To maintain internal equity, we have identified the pay range for this position at the Oakland Zoo to be between $29.08 to $31.92 per hour. An offer within this range will be determined by the experience and qualifications of a candidate and will be our best and final compensation offer, in alignment with Oakland Zoo’s compensation philosophy.

Position Summary
Animal Keepers play a vital role on the ACCR team, taking care of the physical health and psychological well-being of the animals directly under their care. This position is responsible for the daily management of giraffes and warthogs. They work with the same group of animals 5 days a week.

They work closely with the string’s Supervising Primary Keeper and support them as needed in the daily operation and needs of the string’s animals and facilities. They are expected to provide clean and safe conditions for the animal’s living spaces as well as implement enrichment and training to meet the holistic welfare needs of the animals. Additionally, they assist the Supervising Primary Keeper in mentoring interns, and volunteers.

Essential Job Duties

• Use the tools of animal observation, enrichment, training and other management methods to ensure the best possible psychological well-being of the animals in their care
• Conduct ongoing assessment of their physical and psycho-social needs
• Design and implement steps to address these needs
• Implement Department/Zoo priorities as well as demonstrate the initiative and expertise to regularly find ways to make improvements
• Guide and support junior staff and volunteers as appropriate
• Represent the Zoo in a variety of public settings including press interviews, instructional classes and casual communication with Zoo guests
• Perform other related duties as required and assigned by managers

Who You Are

• Minimum of 5 years full time experience in the care of captive wildlife in the zoo field (preferably at an AZA or GFAS facility).
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record and ability to meet insurance carrier requirements.
• Willingness to work outside normal business hours including weekends, evenings, and holidays
• Knowledge of the habits and hazards of working with wild, dangerous animals; willingness to work with some physical risk while observing proper safety precautions
• Medical requirements: negative TB test within the last year, tetanus vaccine within the last 10 years, measles vaccine

Bonus if you have…

• Experience with giraffe, warthog, or other exotic ungulate husbandry, including protected-contact management, animal shifting, introductions, and social management.
• Experience with positive reinforcement training and cooperative care, particularly with ungulates or other large mammals.
• Knowledge of behavioral husbandry and enrichment, including assessing outcomes and modifying programs based on individual animal behavior and welfare.
• Experience working collaboratively with colleagues, mangers, veterinary, nutrition, behavioral husbandry, and facilities teams to solve complex animal-care and welfare challenges.
• Knowledge and experience in behavioral training theory and practical application
• Ability to inspire guests in casual (e.g., one on one) and formal (i.e., programs) venues to take action for conservation
• Bachelor’s degree in zoology, biology or a related field or a specialized Associate’s degree (ex: Moorpark), or other specialized certification

Work Environment – Environmental or atmospheric conditions commonly associated with the performance of the functions of this job.

• Work in indoor and outdoor environments in various weather conditions, sometimes in or around significant dirt and dust

Physical Considerations– The physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs. (i.e., feed sack) and move a minimum of 120 lbs. (i.e., hay bale)
• Able to walk long distances on uneven terrain in variable environmental conditions (e.g., steep, muddy, etc.)

Knowledge, Skills, and Qualities– May be representative, but not all-inclusive, of those knowledge, skills and abilities commonly associated with this position.

• Collaboration – builds trusting relationships with both internal and external stakeholders across our organization and community-wide and approaches differences of opinion with curiosity and humility.
• Communication – communicates respectfully and effectively with stakeholders across identities, both verbally and in writing
• Inclusive Culture – fosters a culture of mutual respect, transparency, collaboration and belonging which allows all employees to feel appreciated, included, and valued.
• Organization – strong attention to details and able to build and/or maintain efficient systems
• Time management – strong capabilities with a demonstrated ability to effectively prioritize multiple commitments
• Sustainability – oriented toward the mission and values of the Oakland Zoo and able to put those into practice by finding creative and resourceful ways to develop sustainable practices within your role and department
• Passion – wholeheartedly believes in, represents, and models Oakland Zoo’s mission and PRIDE values at all times
• Wildlife Aware – understands mission to support the conservation and welfare of animals at The Zoo, locally and globally. This is demonstrated by a willingness/passion to reflect this mission in all actions and to continue to learn how to take action for wildlife

Benefits

Oakland Zoo offers a comprehensive benefits package, including Health insurance, Dental insurance, Vision insurance, Flexible spending account, Retirement plan, Paid time off, Employee Assistance Program, and Zoo Membership options.

Application Process

• Applicants must submit a resume.
• Candidates not meeting minimum requirements may not receive a response.
• Applicants selected for candidacy are required to attend an on-site working interview.

Payrate: To maintain internal equity, we have identified the pay range for this position at the Oakland Zoo as $31.92 to  $35.35 per hour. An offer within this range will be determined by the experience and qualifications of a candidate and will be our best and final compensation offer, in alignment with Oakland Zoo\\\’s compensation philosophy.

Note: We are hiring a Supervising Primary Keeper for the Children’s Zoo at either the Senior Keeper Level B, Senior Keeper Level C, or Lead Keeper Level A, depending upon experience.

Position Summary

A Supervising Primary Keeper position is responsible for the daily care and management of a variety of species: Crowned Lemurs, Ring-Tailed Lemurs, River Otters, Fruit Bats, Rabbits, Domestic Pigs, Goats, and Sheep. They work with the same group of animals 5 days a week. They focus on developing and mentoring all keepers and volunteers working on the string. This position also is responsible for the care and guest interactions with the goats and sheep in the Petting Yard.

They are focusing on their leadership skills, demonstrating proficiency in String management skills in their role as Supervising Primary, and applying ACCR Leadership Program skills to coach and support the team with a positive impact on overall team culture. They are developing skills in effectively navigating daily challenges, while demonstrating expertise with select species or taxa and managing String projects, administrative responsibilities, and research.

Essential Job Duties

• Support oversight of String development, including scheduling, protocols, and behavioral management, and mentoring all keepers and volunteers on the string and manage String projects and administrative responsibilities
• Model ACCR Leadership Program practices, fostering a positive team culture at the String and Section level
• Use the tools of animal observation, enrichment, training and other management methods to ensure the best possible psychological well-being of the animals in their care
• Conduct ongoing assessment of their physical and psycho-social needs
• Design and implement steps to address these needs
• Implement Department/Zoo priorities as well as demonstrate the initiative and expertise to regularly find ways to make improvements
• Guide and support junior staff and volunteers as appropriate
• Represent the Zoo in a variety of public settings including press interviews, instructional classes and casual communication with Zoo guests
• Apply leadership skills to coach, lead, and build a positive team culture within their String
• Demonstrate expertise with select species or taxa
• Can be expected to cover department functions and emergency response coordination in the absence of Zoological Manager or Department Vice President
• Perform other related duties as required and assigned

Supervisory Responsibility

• None

Who You Are

• Minimum of 6 years full time paid experience in the care of captive wildlife in the zoo field (preferably at an AZA or GFAS facility), including a minimum of 1 year of experience serving in a Senior Keeper or equivalent capacity. For Senior C or Lead A, a minimum of 8 years full time paid experience.  Additionally for Lead A, a minimum of 2 years of experience serving in a Supervising Primary Keeper or equivalent capacity.
• Strong experience in the areas of animal care/management
• Experience leading paid staff and unpaid volunteers/interns, including leadership training/conflict management
• Demonstrate proficiency in leadership and communications skills, both in self-management and team coaching and support
• Significant knowledge of the natural history and captive wildlife management for the animals under their care to ensure their best possible physical and psychological well-being
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record and ability to meet insurance carrier requirements.
• Willingness to work outside normal business hours including weekends, evenings, and holidays
• Knowledge of the habits and hazards of working with wild, dangerous animals; willingness to work with some physical risk while observing proper safety precautions
• Medical requirements: negative TB test within the last year, tetanus vaccine within the last 10 years, measles vaccine

Bonus if you have…

• Experience working in a petting yard or with other outreach/ambassador animals
• Significant knowledge and experience in behavioral training theory and practical application
• Experience mentoring and teaching novice staff, interns, or volunteers
• Ability to inspire guests in casual (e.g., one on one) and formal (i.e., programs) venues to take action for conservation
• Bachelor’s degree in zoology, biology or a related field or a specialized Associate\\\’s degree (ex: Moorpark)

Work Environment – Environmental or atmospheric conditions commonly associated with the performance of the functions of this job.

• Work in indoor and outdoor environments in various weather conditions, sometimes in or around significant dirt and dust

Physical Considerations– The physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs. (i.e., feed sack) and move a minimum of 120 lbs. (i.e., hay bale)
• Able to walk long distances on uneven terrain in variable environmental conditions (e.g., steep, muddy, etc.)

Knowledge, Skills, and Qualities– May be representative, but not all-inclusive, of those knowledge, skills and abilities commonly associated with this position.

• Collaboration – builds trusting relationships with both internal and external stakeholders across our organization and community-wide and approaches differences of opinion with curiosity and humility.
• Communication – communicates respectfully and effectively with stakeholders across identities, both verbally and in writing
• Dependability – demonstrates trustworthiness and reliability, including while working with little or no direct supervision
• Flexibility – nimbly adapts to evolving priorities and urgent needs; handles intervals of high pressure while maintaining perspective and humor
• Inclusive Culture – fosters a culture of mutual respect, transparency, collaboration and belonging which allows all employees to feel appreciated, included, and valued.
• Organization – strong attention to details and able to build and/or maintain efficient systems
• Project management – effectively prioritizes commitments, driving forward multiple high-profile and complex projects simultaneously with flexibility, resourcefulness, and agility to adapt to shifting organizational needs
• Self-motivated– effectively navigates multiple, simultaneous tasks with excellent attention to detail and deadlines. Enthusiastically identifies and approaches opportunities without regular supervision
• Solution-oriented – utilizes an open-minded and strengths-based approach to finding solutions for complex challenges.
• Time management – strong capabilities with a demonstrated ability to effectively prioritize multiple commitments
• Sustainability – oriented toward the mission and values of the Oakland Zoo and able to put those into practice by finding creative and resourceful ways to develop sustainable practices within your role and department
• Passion – wholeheartedly believes in, represents, and models Oakland Zoo’s mission and PRIDE values at all times
• Wildlife Aware – understands mission to support the conservation and welfare of animals at The Zoo, locally and globally. This is demonstrated by a willingness/passion to reflect this mission in all actions and to continue to learn how to take action for wildlife

Benefits

Oakland Zoo offers a comprehensive benefits package, including Health insurance, Dental insurance, Vision insurance, Flexible spending account, Retirement plan, Paid time off, Employee Assistance Program, and Zoo Membership options.

Work includes:

Employee Management, Policy Development, Animal Care and Welfare, Safety and Security, Marketing, and Promotion of Zoological missions.

This person assumes responsibility for all aspects of the operation.  (Full description available).  Works with a Board of Directors- Chahinkapa Zoo Association.

Qualifications include:

Graduation form a college or university with major courses in zoology, biology, or zoo management/related field.

Ability to evaluate zoo facilities and programs and recommend the appropriate plans.

Considerable knowledge of zoo policies, procedures, and practices.

Ability to communicate and establish effective working relationships with fellow employees, other agencies, and the public.

Ability to understand and follow instructions regarding job assignments.

The salary is listed below.  Benefits including housing to be negotiated.

Collaborate with a passionate Zoo Crew in San Antonio
Choosing where to grow your career has a major impact on your professional and personal life, so it’s equally important you know that the place you choose to work at will support and guide you. With a diversity of passionate people, San Antonio Zoo is a place where you can collaborate with others securing a future for wildlife.

The Impact You’ll Make in this Role
As an Animal Care Specialist in the Aviculture Department, you will be responsible for all aspects of daily animal care, maintenance of exhibits and plants, data collection, and documents. Knowledge and/or experience with husbandry for a diverse group of bird species is required. Your work involves an amount of independent action with less immediate leadership given after expertise is acquired.

As an Animal Care Specialist, you will have the opportunity to tap into your curiosity and collaborate with some of the most innovative and diverse people in San Antonio. Here, you will make an impact by:

Daily Care

Behavioral Observations

Safety

Animal Enrichment

Collaboration

Creating Community

Staff Management and Development

Other Responsibilities

Your Skills and Expertise 
To set you up for success in this role from day one, the San Antonio Zoo recommends the following skills/qualifications:

The San Antonio Zoo is an equal opportunity employer. San Antonio Zoo will not discriminate against any applicant for employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.

At Tanganyika Wildlife Park, we go beyond caring for animals. We create once-in-a-lifetime experiences that make you say \”WOW\”. Inspiring generations to become conservation champions.

If you\’re passionate about animals, driven by purpose, and believe that one moment can change a life then this is where you belong.

Why Tanganyika?

A Front Row Seat to Conservation in Action

We’re not a zoo. We’re an experience. At Tanganyika, you’ll be part of a team pioneering interactive conservation experiences that educate, engage, and empower. We do conservation a bit different our focus is conservation one person at a time. Making people aware of the species, getting them interested, and then calling them to action.

Work That Gives You Goosebumps

From helping a toddler feed a giraffe for the first time to guiding a training session with a curious lemur, your job here is anything but ordinary. This is the kind of place where work and wonder collide.

Real Growth. Real Mentorship. Real Impact.

Whether you\’re starting your career or seeking your next challenge, Tanganyika invests in you. We care about you beyond the workplace with initiatives to help our team reduce their consumer debt to an employee assistance program to our Dream Manager program, we want you to become the best YOU.

A Culture That Cares—For Animals and Humans

We lead with love, and it shows. Our team is fiercely supportive, deeply passionate, and united by a shared purpose. And yes, your “co-workers” might include sloths, rhinos, and porcupines.

Purpose That Reaches Beyond the Park

Every moment you create here fuels a global mission. Whether it’s supporting field conservation projects or inspiring a child to become a future biologist, your work leaves a legacy.

Tanganyika Wildlife Park offers a Veterinary Assistant Externship for individuals interested in gaining short-term experience in zoological and exotic animal medicine. This opportunity provides exposure to veterinary care in a zoological setting and allows participants to learn about the collaborative roles of veterinarians, veterinary assistants, animal care staff, and other members of the animal care team.

What You’ll Experience

Depending on the needs of the veterinary team and the animals in our care, externs may have the opportunity to:

• Shadow veterinary staff during medical procedures, examinations, and routine veterinary care
• Observe clinical diagnostics, surgical preparation, and treatment protocols
• Assist with data collection related to animal behavior, health parameters, and medical records
• Support enrichment, feeding, and husbandry routines under supervision
• Gain exposure to species-specific care techniques and zoological veterinary protocols
• Learn about the day-to-day responsibilities of a veterinary team working with exotic and zoological species

This externship offers limited hands-on experience, including opportunities to assist with husbandry and medical behaviors under the direction of Tanganyika\’s veterinary and animal care teams.

Commitment

• Minimum commitment: 16 hours
• Scheduling: Full-day and half-day opportunities are available
• Duration: Externship length can vary based on the participant\’s goals and availability
• Compensation: This is an unpaid educational externship opportunity.

Who Should Apply?

This opportunity is ideal for individuals interested in:

• Zoological or exotic animal medicine
• Veterinary assisting
• Zoo animal care
• Veterinary medicine
• Animal behavior and husbandry

Apply at https://tanganyikawildlifeparkllc.easyapply.co/

If you have any issues applying please email creese@twpark.com for assistance.

Animal Care Specialist – Mammals West

Collaborate with a passionate Zoo Crew in San Antonio
Choosing where to grow your career has a major impact on your professional and personal life, so it’s equally important you know that the place you choose to work at will support and guide you. With a diversity of passionate people, San Antonio Zoo is a place where you can collaborate with others securing a future for wildlife.

The Impact You’ll Make in this Role
As an Animal Care Specialist with our Mammals West department, you will perform a wide variety of tasks related to providing proper husbandry and ensuring the wellbeing of the animals here.  You will be responsible for ensuring suitable medical treatments of zoo animals following instructions of Zoo Veterinarians, daily cleaning and maintenance of animal enclosures and service areas.

 As an Animal Care Specialist, you will have the opportunity to tap into your curiosity and collaborate with some of the most innovative and diverse people in San Antonio. Here, you will make an impact by:

Daily Care

• General husbandry and daily care of assigned animals, including preparing and distributing approved animal diets.
• Inspect, clean, and maintain both on-exhibit and off-exhibit areas.
• Demonstrate critical thinking skills with the ability to maintain, train, and troubleshoot complex animal behavior daily.
• Maintain detailed daily records on assigned animals.
• Knowledge of safety SOPs, safety concerns, and reporting protocols.
• Demonstrate the ability to assist other team members with their animal-related goals and challenges.
• All work must adhere to the industry best practices, safety protocols, standards, and guidelines established by San Antonio Zoo, governing agencies, and regulatory/accrediting bodies.
• Uphold all company policies as outlined in the Standard Operating Procedures, Team Member Handbook, and Code of Business Conduct.
• Consistently exhibit an attitude of service inside and outside of the zoo, showing hospitality to all.
• Be fully committed to the mission of San Antonio Zoo to create awareness that inspires action to care for the wild world we steward and animals we protect.

Animal Wellbeing

• Utilize daily behavioral observations, animal training, and operant conditioning techniques to maintain current behaviors and build new repertoire in experienced and naïve animals.
• Continually observe and evaluate animal behavior and conditions for animals in the department and report any issues to your manager.
• Perform regular animal wellbeing assessments.
• Maintain detailed daily records on assigned animals.
• Propose and perform species specific enrichment.

Safety 

• Exercise sound judgment in analyzing animal concerns or emergencies and respond with the appropriate action
• Work safely around delicate, wild, unpredictable, and potentially dangerous animals.
• Delicately handle, examine, and move without harming sick, injured, or small animals.
• Have sufficient strength, agility, and coordination to net, capture, and/or restrain animals of various sizes.
• Secure animals, their enclosures, and other associated structures for the safety of our internal and external guests.

Collaboration

• Assist veterinary staff in the treatment of zoo animals.
• Assist in animal procedures including, but not limited to, translocations, veterinary practices, and crating.
• Effectively document and communicate issues or concerns to team members and management.
• Participate in or assist with the capture and restraint of a variety of taxa, including dangerous species.

Creating Community

• Engage with the Zoo guests as well as staff and volunteers at habitats to include VIP programs and training demonstrations, and/or shows.
• Promote active guest engagement through interactions during both formal and informal discussions and events.

Staff Management and Development

• Study-specific reference materials pertinent to animal care, behavior, and natural history as assigned.
• Establish and maintain effective working relations with fellow employees.

Other Responsibilities

• Perform other work-related duties as required and assigned.

Your Skills and Expertise  
To set you up for success in this role from day one, the San Antonio Zoo recommends the following skills/qualifications:

• Associate degree in wildlife management, zoology, biology, or related field preferred.
• Minimum one-year zoo keeping experience is preferred.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills are preferred.
• You must be 18 years of age or older with a clean driving record for vehicle operation.
• This position requires a valid Class ‘C’ Texas Driver’s License or a valid driver’s license from another state with the ability to obtain a Class “C” Texas Driver’s License within 45 days of becoming employed.
• Successful candidates must complete a pre-employment drug screening, background check, and TB test.
• Must be able to work in varying climate and weather conditions (rain, snow, hot, or cold).
• We enjoy year-round operation for all staff- must be available days, nights, weekends, and occasional after-hour assignments.

The San Antonio Zoo is an equal opportunity employer.  San Antonio Zoo will not discriminate against any applicant for employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
• Feed and water animals in and around existing quarters; clean, sanitize, maintain and repair animal quarters as required; shovel, rake, hose, sweep, dust and mop floors
• Prepare diets for animals; clean and maintain work area and food storage containers
• Maintain adequate records on daily activities; observe animal behavior for signs of illness, weight loss/gain or injury; report any signs of illness or injury
• Assist veterinarians in minor operations or related activity, administer prescribed medications, submit fecal samples and other duties as needed
• Assist in the training of assigned animals; guide animals through daily routines according to established training schedules and guidelines
• Carry out animal diet directives from Nutritional Services Dept; clean and maintain food storage containers
• Participate in the zoo-wide behavioral management program by implementing approved animal training and enrichment projects
• Participate in and implement approved research projects
• Respond to public inquiries in a courteous manner; resolve complaints in an efficient and timely manner; Present keeper talks to park visitors and media as required
• Assist in directing the proper restraint, crating, moving and uncrating of animals
• Properly maintain exhibits, animal facilities, equipment and life support systems (as apply) as trained for specific positions
• Understand and implement operant conditioning as it relates to the daily management of species under his/her care

Qualifications:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Must have one year of zoo keeping experience, elephant zoo keeping experience preferred
• Valid driver license with acceptable motor vehicle record to maintain zoo standards of insurability
• Proof of negative tuberculosis (TB) screening within previous six months prior to placement and annually thereafter
Must possess ability to:
• Work independently in the absence of immediate supervision
• Understand and follow oral and written instructions
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships
• Maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities

Education and/or Experience:
• High School diploma or equivalent
• Bachelor’s degree in wildlife management, zoology, animal behavior, biology, ecology, psychology or related field preferred
• Specialized training in zoology or a related field desirable but not required

Physical Demands: 
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 75 pounds.

Work Environment:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
• Team oriented environment
• Ability to work irregular hours (holidays and weekends)
• Exposure to a variety of domestic and wild or potentially dangerous animals; animal odors and animal body fluids
• Exposure to all types of inclement weather conditions
• Exposure to chemicals (cleaning, water chemicals, additives, etc.)
• Ability to work special events and functions as required
• This position may be safety sensitive
• This position may work around animals susceptible to specific diseases, thus may be subject to regular tuberculosis and rabies titer testing, and the routine use of personal protective equipment such as gloves, face masks

Disclaimer
The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as a complete inventory of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor.

Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities. To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Continued employment remains on an at-will basis.

Benefits 
This is a full-time position and offers the following benefits:
• Medical and Prescription Drug (Employee Coverage 90% Employer Paid, Dependent Coverage 55% Employer Paid)
• Vision
• Dental
• Basic Life AD&D (100% Employer Paid)
• Short Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
• Long Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
• Supplemental Life
• Flexible Spending Account
• 401k
• Paid Time Off (Accrual Equivalent to 5 Weeks Per Year)
• PTO Rollover
• PTO Sell Back
• Free Zoo Membership
• Free Guest Passes
• Discounts on Food, Merchandise, Attractions, Admission and Programs