Animal Nutrition Technician - PT

City of Abilene•Abilene, TX

3d•$17 - $20•Onsite

About The Position

Under the supervision of the Supervisor - Animal Care Programs and mentorship of the Animal Nutrition Specialist, this position supports the daily operations of the Animal Nutrition Department. The role is responsible for assisting with diet preparation, food inventory management, and maintaining cleanliness and organization in the commissary. The Animal Nutrition Technician – Part Time plays an integral role in ensuring the dietary needs of the Zoo’s animal collection are met while adhering to high standards of food safety and animal welfare. Employees may have access to controlled substances in the performance of their job duties. Therefore, employees are required to not have any felony convictions related to a controlled substance.

Requirements

A High school diploma or GED is required.
A valid Texas drivers' license, the ability to obtain one within ninety (90) days employment, or a military waiver is required.
Possession of or the ability to obtain a food handlers certificate within ninety (90) days of employment is required.
Bloodborne Pathogens and HazCom training are required within sixty (60) days of employment.
Employees are required to not have any previous felony convictions related to a controlled substance.
Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays, as needed.
Willingness to handle raw meat, produce, and other food items.
Ability to work in a commercial kitchen environment with exposure to sharp tools and potentially slippery conditions.
Ability to work alone.
Willing to be TB tested negative before starting and tested yearly thereafter.
Attend safety training as required.
Basic principles of food preparation and handling.
Proper sanitation and safety practices in a food preparation environment.
Basic animal nutrition concepts and dietary requirements for various species.
Food related record-keeping, labeling and documentation practices.
Maintain cleanliness and organization in a food preparation setting.
Accurately measure, prepare, and portion animal diets.
Perform basic math and functional computer competencies.
Exercise time management and efficiency practices
Operate kitchen equipment, vehicles, and inventory management systems.
Mentor and train team members in diet preparation and food safety.
Plan and prioritize tasks to ensure timely delivery of diets.
Safely operate a motor vehicle.
Follow written and verbal instructions with precision and attention to detail to understand instructions and information of a technical nature.
Work collaboratively with the Nutrition team and other Zoo staff.
Maintain a high level of attention to detail and accuracy in diet preparation.
Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Adapt to changing priorities and tasks in a fast-paced environment.
Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work, both internally and externally.
Follow and embrace the City of Abilene Core Values – Respect, Integrity, Service Above Self, and Excellence in All We Do.
Perform as a team member in a manner that accomplishes the Division’s mission and treats team members with dignity, courtesy, and respect.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in food preparation, animal care, or a related field is preferred.
Encouraged to attend professional development programs when offered.

Responsibilities

Assist in the preparation and portioning of animal diets according to established guidelines and protocols.
Deliver prepared diets to designated animal care areas in a timely and efficient manner.
Clean and sanitize food preparation areas, tools, and equipment to maintain compliance with health and safety standards.
Monitor inventory levels of food supplies and report shortages or excess to the Supervisor or Animal Nutrition Specialist.
Rotate perishable and non-perishable food items to ensure freshness and minimize waste.
Assist with unpacking and storing food deliveries, checking for quality and accuracy.
Maintain detailed records of diet preparation and food usage as directed.
Follow established protocols for food safety, including proper handling, storage, and disposal of food items.
Communicate effectively with the Animal Nutrition Specialist and Supervisor to address any issues or special dietary needs for the animal collection.
Operate City vehicles, Zoo rides, attractions, and other motorized equipment.
Support special projects or events requiring commissary assistance.
Perform other related duties and responsibilities as assigned.