Conservationist – Hoofstock
Full time @Wilderness Wildlife Center Shortlist Email JobJob Detail
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Job ID 3037
Job Description
As we expand the Wilderness Wildlife Center is looking for a positive and experienced keeper to join the hoofstock team to care for a diverse collection of hoofstock including elk, bison, bighorn sheep, moose, musk ox, white rhinos with an expansion for other African hoofstock. This position may crosstrain with our carnivore routines.
The Wilderness Wildlife Center is a newer AZA certified related facility located 20 minutes west of Pittsburgh. We have helped rescue many orphaned native wildlife and have been expanding to help with AZA SSP and breeding programs. We are closed to the public but do occasionally give small tours.
Under supervision of the Animal Care Manager and Lead Conservationist, keepers perform a wide range of responsibilities at the Wilderness Wildlife Center.
Responsibilities include:
- Cleaning and maintaining habitats, indoor holdings, yards and service areas assigned.
- Continual monitoring of habitats and service areas with attention to detail.
- Exemplary animal care and providing assistance in veterinary management
- Operant conditioning of collection for husbandry behaviors and providing enrichment
- Animal observation and monitoring for behavioral and medical needs
- Maintaining records, including entering data into ZIMS
- Contributes to open team discussions and sharing ideas in positive and professional manner
- Maintains good work habits and adheres to all policies and procedures
- Assists with projects or daily duties in other animal care areas
- Other duties as assigned
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in biology, zoology, animal science or a related field
- At least 1 year animal care experience with large herds of hoofstock
- Experience with capture and restraint of hoofstock
- Experience with operant conditioning and enrichment techniques preferred
- Must be able to work outside year-round under typical Western Pennsylvania weather conditions and temperatures for extended periods of time.
- Must be able to work in uneven terrain with exposure to varying weather conditions, dust, and allergens
- Must be able to lift and carry materials up to 50 pounds.
- Must have the ability to follow safety protocols, demonstrate focus, follow written and verbal instructions, effectively promote organization, manage stress to perform the job effectively, remember details, manage time effectively, apply critical thinking techniques, analyze and solve problems.
- Demonstrate computer proficiency (experience with ZIMS a plus)
Applicants may be required to work any combination of five days in the seven day workweek including weekends and holidays
Salary is commensurate with experience with a base salary starting at $40,000 annual plus benefits (vision, dental, medical)
All successful candidates for this position will be required to a criminal background check
How to Apply
Please send cover letter, resume and 3 professional references to: info@wildernesswildlifecenter.com
