Animals In Action Wildlife Care Specialist, Behavior - Part Time - San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance•San Diego, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Wildlife Care Specialist Behavior performs all job assignments with a positive attitude that supports San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's mission and vision of saving species worldwide by uniting our expertise in wildlife care and conservation science with our dedication to inspiring passion for nature and leading the fight against extinction. The Wildlife Care Specialist Behavior, under general supervision, performs a wide variety of functions in the training, handling and care of wildlife used for public appearances and contact, such as educational programs. This position reports to the Wildlife Training Supervisor or Manager. The Wildlife Care Specialist Behavior performs a wide variety of moderately difficult tasks involved in preparing wildlife for public contact and presentations.

Requirements

High School Diploma Required
California Driver License within 30 days required
Knowledge of animal behavior
Knowledge of animal behavior modification
Knowledge of care, feeding and handling of wild animals
Knowledge of safety practices around wild animals
Knowledge of SDZWA policies, procedures and regulations regarding the care, handling and training of exhibit animals
Ability to train and modify behavior in a variety of environments
Ability to discriminate differences in animal vocalizations
Ability to monitor animal behavior
Ability to keep simple records
Ability to communicate and work effectively with others (verbal and written)
Ability to deal tactfully and courteously with the others in a diverse environment
Ability to respond to cautions from co-workers
Ability to monitor animal behavior and appearance
Ability to operate motorized equipment and vehicles
Ability to competently perform the essential functions outlined above

Nice To Haves

Two or more years experience as a wildlife handler at San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance or a comparable organization, preferred.

Responsibilities

Trains wildlife in new behaviors and reinforces trained behaviors
Prepares wildlife for a variety of stimuli, location and health maintenance using positive methods and participation from the animal
Prepares and feed wildlife
Conducts special tours
Manages wildlife to ensure public safety
Transports wildlife to habitat or location for sharing conservation/sustainability messaging. Assists handlers, set up props, stages or other areas
Assists medical staff in treatment of assigned wildlife
Makes informational presentations to the public
Cleans and maintains habitats and work areas
Administers prescribed medication and nutritional supplements
Keeps feeding, medication and other records regarding wildlife care
Answers questions and provides information to the public regarding assigned wildlife