Seasonal Animal Care Assistant - Great Apes

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium • Omaha, NE

10d • $15 • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking an enthusiastic and self-motivated individual to support the Great Ape Department in providing care to a variety of primates, great apes, hoofstock, and bird species. This position will work directly with current animal care staff and will be primarily responsible for several duties to help manage the daily departmental tasks, including area upkeep and cleaning, animal diet preparation, and assisting animal care staff as needed. This seasonal position will assist in maintaining the Great Ape buildings, prep areas, animal enclosures, and public spaces. This role requires cooperation with animal care staff and willingness to complete assigned tasks by area management in order to facilitate quality care and operational standards. This seasonal position will help aspiring animal care professionals acquire hands-on experience with a wide variety of species to fulfill a pre-requisite to gaining employment in the zoological field.

Requirements

• Ability to communicate effectively with animal care staff and record information in daily records.
• Demonstrates knowledge of basic biology, behaviors, and the husbandry needs of area animals.
• Possesses an enthusiasm for completion of tasks, team cooperation, and handling multiple tasks.
• Maintains current knowledge of Zoo, departmental, and area policies and procedures relevant to daily activities and emergencies.
• Adheres to all safety protocols and area SOPs.
• Candidates might be required to pass a pre-employment background check, drug test, negative TB test, and possess a valid driver’s license with a good history.

Responsibilities

• Cleaning: Public and non-public areas associated with the department.
• Animal Care and Husbandry: Assist in all aspects of animal care and husbandry for the animals associated with the department.
• Animal Enrichment: Assist in the daily enrichment of animals in the collection using the life strategies approach developed for the zoo. Assist with the development of new enrichment projects for the department.
• Horticultural: Assist with the maintenance (planting, trimming, watering, mowing, etc.) of all plant-life associated with the department and the exhibits.
• Building Maintenance: Assist in the monitoring, repair, and modifications of any system which supports the operation of any building associated with the department.
• Safety: Continually perform within a manner which supports a safe working environment.
• Communication: Willingness to provide and be open with information to co-workers, other departments, and staff to ensure everyone is continually informed.
• Record Systems: Assist with animal training records, enrichment documents, department report sheets, and daily operational check-lists.
• General Zoo Operation: Assist with activities in other zoo departments, as requested.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees