Browse Technician I

Atlanta-Fulton County Zoo Inc•Atlanta, GA

23h•Onsite

About The Position

The Browse Technician is responsible for supplying “browse” to the Zoo’s animal collection teams on a regular and timely basis. “Browse” is any approved plant species that can be consumed as a supplement to an animal’s diet. This includes all aspects of identification, procurement, handling and delivery. This position reports to the Director of Horticulture.

Requirements

Quality plant ID skills highly important. Must be able to discern approved browse from unapproved species.
Completion of browse species identification training and proficiency in browse field site evaluation and plant identification.
Ability to learn to drive and operate medium/heavy duty vehicles - including 14’ trailer and skid steer. Ability to drive a manual transmission preferred.
Consistently demonstrates strong and positive leadership skills in a team-oriented environment and proven ability to work well with co-workers.
The ability to work independently at times with minimal to no supervision.
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
Zoo Atlanta is open to the public 363 days out of the year, therefore, all positions at Zoo Atlanta may require employees to work some weekends, holidays and evenings.
Must have a valid driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record
Ability to drive manual transmission vehicle preferred and repeatedly lift 50 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Biology or related field preferred.

Responsibilities

Responsible for coordinating with Zoo partner organizations to schedule regular browse pick-ups off-site and harvesting browse on zoo grounds as needed using appropriate Best Management Practices.
Consulting with keeper staff to assess animal area browse requirements.
Harvest browse from locally identified sites in a manner appropriate for animal consumption.
Responsible for daily record keeping of browse species harvesting logs.
Responsible for researching new browse proposals and report findings to Horticulture manager and Veterinary staff.
Cultivation/propagation of sites for the purpose of harvesting for animal consumption.
Assist with continued development of the local harvesting program, including site evaluation and species identification.
Maintenance of all departmental vehicles, tools and equipment. Includes pruning tools, saws, chainsaws, leaf blowers, etc.
Maintenance of browse gardens on zoo grounds.
May at times assist the Horticulture team with Zoo grounds maintenance as needed.
Must be willing to support Zoo Atlanta’s Vision, Mission and Values statement
Any other miscellaneous projects/assignment assigned by Zoo Atlanta’s Horticulture team.