Temporary Nutritional Services Keeper

Fort Worth Zoo•Fort Worth, TX

About The Position

The Nutritional Services Keeper receives, prepares, and delivers food and supplies to animal buildings and exhibit areas. The role begins under immediate supervision, with supervision expected to become more general as the employee gains knowledge of operating procedures. The position lasts 400 hours. The employee prepares animal diets, maintains sanitation, equipment, and records, and works cooperatively with staff across the zoo. With training, the employee may euthanize feeder animals as part of a diet management program and assist with nutrition laboratory operations and research. The role also involves responding courteously to public inquiries and learning about the Fort Worth Zoo, its mission, policies, collection, and Nutritional Services Department.

Requirements

Be at least 18 years of age.
Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Have one year of food service experience or one year of experience working in a zoo facility.
Hold a valid driver's license and have an acceptable motor vehicle record to maintain zoo standards of insurability.
Demonstrate practical knowledge of food service sanitation and food handling.
Demonstrate knowledge of food service safety.
Demonstrate knowledge of the maintenance and operation of various food service equipment.
Communicate well verbally and in writing.
Work effectively in a team setting.
Show initiative in problem solving, alertness, and good judgment.
Learn quickly and carry out tasks as directed, following detailed directions.
Meet emergencies calmly and effectively.
Prepare and deliver diets accurately and in a timely manner.
Be able to perform the essential duties, including regularly lifting and/or moving up to 50 pounds.

Nice To Haves

College coursework in biology, zoology, wildlife, nutrition, or a related area.

Responsibilities

Accurately prepare and deliver food and supplies to animal areas daily.
Follow protocols and procedures to maintain a high level of sanitation.
Receive items delivered to the Nutritional Services facility.
Prepare various diets.
Develop proficiency in routines and specialized procedures.
Maintain equipment and report problems when needed.
Communicate and work cooperatively with zoo staff, and follow the appropriate chain of command.
Assist with diet, inventory, stocking, and receiving records.
Respond to public inquiries in a courteous and well-informed manner.
Acquire general knowledge of the Fort Worth Zoo, its mission, policies and procedures, collection, and the objectives of the Nutritional Services Department.
With training, euthanize feeder animals as part of a diet management program.
Assist with nutrition laboratory operations and research as needed.