Keeper 1/Veterinary Assistant

Utica Zoological Society•City of Utica, NY

9h•Onsite

About The Position

The Keeper/Veterinary Assistant 1 works with the zoo’s Attending Veterinarian and the Veterinary Program and Records Manager to provide general animal care to a wide variety of collection animals including, sick and convalescing animals, and those in quarantine. Some keeper duties will be included as needed for scheduling purposes and assisting with animal areas. The position will also have scheduled time each week in one or more of the keeper areas. This position will not have any supervisory role.

Requirements

Must have strong written and oral communication skills.
Demonstrate computer proficiency to complete the functions of this position.
Demonstrate the ability to use light power tools after suitable training.
Must obtain and maintain a valid New York driver’s license within six months of employment.
Must be dependable and willing to work flexible hours, weekends, and holidays.
Four-year degree in biology, psychology, or related field is preferred; sufficient relevant experience will be considered.
Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
Must have the physical ability to perform strenuous work.
Must be capable of lifting 50 lbs. or more.

Nice To Haves

Participate in ongoing education programs as requested.

Responsibilities

Assist the Veterinary Program and Records Manager with Veterinary/Quarantine tasks.
Assist the Veterinary and Animal Care staff with the physical, manual and/or chemical restraint of animals as required.
Enter data into ZIMS for each animal and help the Veterinary Program and Records Manager maintain up to date medical records.
Assist the Veterinary Program and Records Manager stay up to date on diet formulation, husbandry techniques and area protocols.
Assist the Veterinary Program and Records Manager with inventory of medical supplies and equipment.
Effectively monitor health and behavior of the animal collection and communicate changes to supervisor and veterinary staff.
Oversee administration of medications as applicable.
Complete daily records in Zoological Information Management Systems (ZIMS), in-house Quality of Life (QOLs) records and participate in completion of Animal Welfare forms.
Participate in and support collaborative efforts pertaining to the care of the collection including training, enrichment, research, and education.
Complete behavioral management training and utilize operant conditioning and enrichment techniques.
Maintain a high-performance level of general keeper duties including excellent animal care and guest interactions.
Actively support and implement area policies, procedures, and protocols to ensure the highest standards of care for the collection and the safety of staff and guests.
An enthusiasm for interacting with the public and a willingness to give regular talks to guests, special groups, etc.
Represent the zoo to guests, donors, zoo community associates and the public; answer questions, give formal and informal talks and attend functions as requested.
Adhere to and support all zoo policies and procedures of the zoo, including the Utica Zoo’s conservation and research initiatives.