Urban Jungle Wildlife Care Specialist - Full Time - San Diego Zoo

Aza•San Diego, CA

47d•$31•Onsite

About The Position

The Wildlife Care Specialist 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, under general supervision, feeds and provides for the general care and welfare of assigned wildlife (mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish, invertebrates or birds). This position reports to a Lead or Supervisor. This class is distinguished from the Senior Wildlife care specialist class in that the Wildlife care specialist works under supervision. The Wildlife care specialist performs a wide range of semi-routine functions at either the Zoo or San Diego Zoo Safari Park. This class also consistently demonstrates the desire and ability to engage in positive relationships with internal and external customers.

Requirements

A minimum of one year working with exotic wildlife in an accredited zoo or equivalent sanctuary-like organization that manages exotic wildlife.
Experience with a variety of mammal taxa.
Husbandry and behavioral knowledge, a basic understanding of operant conditioning and the care and feeding of exotic wildlife.
Safety practices around exotic wildlife is required.
Guest interactions/ public presentations are required.
The qualified candidate is expected to be a team player and have good communication skills.
Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekdays, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
This position requires successful completion of a Physical Ability Test.
Education, training and/or experience which would clearly demonstrate the essential functions, knowledge and skills outlined. Examples would be 12 to 16 college credit hours in zoology, animal biology or animal husbandry; or, work experience in a Zoo or similar environment where appropriate knowledge and skills in animal care could be acquired preferred.
High School Diploma Required
California Driver License within 30 Days required
Knowledge of: Animal behavior, Animal biology and zoology, Care, feeding and handling of wild animals, Safety practices around wild animals, Techniques for restraining or capturing wild animals, Public Speaking
Ability to: Respond to cautions from co-workers, Monitor animal behavior and appearance, Operate motorized equipment and vehicles, Use computer programs (Word processing, spreadsheets, PowerPoint, and Internet), Communicate and work effectively with others, Work in a diverse team environment and motivate others, Multi-task and prioritize, Understand and follow directions effectively, Deal tactfully and courteously with others, Adhere to the organization's policies, procedures and regulations, Competently perform the essential functions outlined above

Nice To Haves

Experience with ungulates and marsupials helpful.

Responsibilities

Prepares food and water for animals, Loads and unloads food from trucks, Feeds animals
Observes assigned animals
Maintains appropriate health and behavior records on assigned animals. Provides species-appropriate enrichment to assigned animals.
Participates in assisting medical staff in treating wildlife and moving animals
Performs minor or routine maintenance on habitat enclosures. Reports maintenance needs. Operates a variety of light and medium equipment.
Cleans habitat areas, pools, animal sleeping areas and service areas
Reports abnormal conditions
Cleans and disinfects utensils, work tools and containers
Participates in and supports animal training programs
Administers prescribed medication and keeps feeding records