Purpose of Position

The Blank Park Zoo's Large Mammal Team manages a number of species in the Africa section of the zoo including breeding groups of Reticulated Giraffe, Addax, Red River Hogs and Hartmann's Mountain Zebras.

Essential Duties

The following duties are essential to this position. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

• Provides for husbandry needs of all animals in care by participating in daily cleaning, diet preparation, feeding, training, enrichment, and daily observations.
• Responsible for daily observation of animal health and welfare. Reports abnormal behavior and problems to area supervisor. Maintains accurate daily records of animal collection.
• Cooperates and assists with veterinary treatments and instructions, which may include safely working free- contact situations.
• Participates in public outreach such as membership programs and keeper chats.
• Adheres to established animal handling, neonate, and related safety protocols. Participates in established animal escape drills and procedures. Under supervision, captures, restrains and transports animals.
• Participates in protected contact animal training for husbandry and medical needs using operant conditioning.
• Identifies and communicates with maintenance repairs needed for the safety of animals, visitors and staff as well as overall upkeep of the facilities. Performs minor repairs and improvements of exhibits under supervision.
• Functions effectively in both team and individual settings, and works toward adopting and creating best animal welfare practices.
• Collaborates with area supervisor and team to achieve common husbandry goals.
• Actively supports area policies and procedures, mission, vision, values, and strategic plan of the Blank Park Zoo.
• Other duties as assigned.

Competencies

Work Environment

While performing the duties of the job, the incumbent is regularly required to stand, walk on even terrain, climb, and utilize manual dexterity to use various tools, machines, and equipment. The incumbent is occasionally exposed to all types of weather conditions including extreme heat and cold, snow, hail, wind, and rain. Some work is required in small and/or confined spaces. Incumbents are exposed to noisy environments such as mowers and motors.

Physical Requirements

The physical requirements described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to successfully perform the essential functions.

Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles and the like.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Moving self in different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments including tight and confined spaces.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Remaining in a stationary position, often standing or sitting for prolonged periods.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Moving about to accomplish tasks or moving from one worksite to another.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Adjusting or moving objects up to 50 pounds in all directions.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Communicating with others to exchange information.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Operating machinery and/or power tools.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Operating motor vehicles or heavy equipment.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Assessing the accuracy, neatness and thoroughness of the work assigned.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Driving.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling –
Never Occasionally Constantly

Reaching with hands and arms.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Tasting or smelling.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Vision
Close vision; Distant vision; Color vision; Peripheral vision; Depth perception; Ability to adjust focus

Lifting Requirement.
> than 50 pounds Up to 50 pounds Up to 40 pounds Up to 25 pounds Up to 10 pounds

Required Education and Experience

• 4 year college degree and paid experience in the zoo field. Experience along with a college degree can be interchangeable at a rate of 1 year of college to 1 year of experience.
• Experience with Microsoft office, Excel spreadsheets, and Google drive are preferred or ability to obtain.

Additional Eligibility Requirements

• Must be insurable to drive a zoo vehicle.
• Must be able to maintain work hours that will serve the needs of the Blank Park Zoo.
• Must be able or willing to learn how to operate various equipment, including UTVs, trailers, large vehicles, and a skid loader.
• Must be able to maintain calm and act professionally in all situations such as emergencies and guest interactions.

Licenses/Certifications

• Valid Iowa motor vehicle license
• Willing to obtain First Aid/CPR Training

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

To Apply

Please complete the online application and attach a cover letter and resume.