Animal Nutrition Coordinator

Houston Zoo•Houston, TX

126d

About The Position

The Animal Nutrition Coordinator supports daily operations of the Houston Zoo's Animal Nutrition Center, primarily coordinating the browse program and commissary operations. The position oversees collection, processing, and distribution of fresh browse; maintains records and food-safety compliance; coordinates inventory and ordering; and assists with preparing and delivering diets and supplies. The Coordinator also helps oversee daily workflows, trains and mentors staff and volunteers, supports operational projects and standard operating procedures, and collaborates with animal care teams to promote animal nutrition and welfare. The role includes preparing diets according to written and oral instructions; maintaining inventory and diet-change records; submitting requisitions and ordering from vendors; receiving food shipments; and keeping work areas and equipment clean and sanitary. The Coordinator supports facility inspections, maintenance and safety reporting, departmental projects, and public education activities. The position may serve as a point of contact for other departments in the Animal Nutrition Supervisor's absence and assists with team projects and staff development. Houston Zoo connects communities with animals, inspiring action to save wildlife, and aims to be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife. The Zoo has more than 6,000 permanent animal residents and receives over 2 million guests annually. It focuses on wildlife and habitat preservation through conservation, education, and promotion of sustainable livelihoods in local communities.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree (BA/BS) from a four-year college or university, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
At least six years of food preparation experience at an AZA or equivalent facility, gained through employment or internships.
Must have or be able to obtain a valid Texas driver's license within 60 days of employment.
Ability to work effectively and efficiently under minimal supervision.
Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.

Responsibilities

Coordinate onsite browse processing according to Nutritionist and Supervisor directives, including cleaning, processing, and distribution.
Maintain accurate records of plant species harvested and quantities distributed to animal sections.
Ensure daily commissary protocols, recordkeeping, labeling, and food-safety measures are followed.
Work in accordance with applicable USDA, FDA, and AZA regulations, guidelines, and best practices related to animal nutrition, food safety, and commissary operations.
Prepare daily diets according to written and oral instructions regarding food type, quantity, and preparation format, obtaining ingredients from the ANC barn, coolers, and freezers.
Maintain daily product inventory records and diet-change requests using Microsoft Office applications and database systems.
Submit requisitions to restock food inventory and place vendor orders as needed.
Inspect assigned areas and submit work orders for ANC facility and equipment repairs as needed.
Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of ANC work areas, food surfaces, and equipment.
Pack and deliver diets and supplies throughout the zoo as instructed.
Support receiving operations by unloading food shipments, checking deliveries against packing slips, and operating equipment such as forklifts and pallet jacks.
Assist with departmental research, conservation, AZA, and other industry activities as directed or approved by the AN Supervisor/Nutritionist.
Occasionally interact with and educate the public about animal nutrition and department operations through tours, keeper chats, and special events.
May assist the zoo's pest control officer with pest control using exclusion or traps.
Identify and report potential maintenance or safety issues to the AN Supervisor.
Communicate and work effectively with the home team and other teams or departments.
Safely operate a motor vehicle.
Demonstrate proficiency in all duties and work areas within the ANC.
Assist with training and mentoring, and may oversee and direct activities of teenage Zoo Crew volunteers.
Serve as a point of contact for area staff, veterinarians, Facilities staff, and other departments when the Animal Nutrition Supervisor is absent.
Assist the Animal Nutrition Supervisor with oversight of team projects.
Assist in developing and implementing area standard operating procedures.
Serve as a positive role model for interns, volunteers, keepers, and other staff.
Seek feedback and resources to improve leadership skills and help improve leadership skills in other team members.
Contribute to wildlife conservation through reducing waste, water, and energy use and inspiring guests and staff to take wildlife-protecting actions.
Perform other duties as assigned.