Animal Nutrition Technician

Position: NUTRITION TECHNICIAN

Status: Part Time, Hourly, Non-Exempt

Department: Veterinary Programs

Reports to: Veterinary Resource Manager

POSITION OVERVIEW

Located along the Space Coast in Melbourne, Florida, the Brevard Zoo is an AZA-accredited facility with a diverse collection of over 900 animals representing nearly 200 species. It is also home to the Sea Turtle Healing Center for rehabilitation of wild marine turtles. Brevard Zoo is well-known for its strong conservation ethic and unique attractions, such as kayaking through the Africa area, giraffe feeding, and rhinoceros and lemur encounters.

The Zoo’s growing Department of Veterinary Programs is seeking a dynamic individual to join our team of dedicated animal health professionals as a Veterinary Technician. We are searching for a team-oriented candidate that is positive, motivated, and engaging, and will enthusiastically represent Brevard Zoo in all aspects of the job. The Veterinary Programs team consists of its Director, Staff Veterinarian, Veterinary Intern, Veterinary Technician, Veterinary Resource Manager, Animal Nutrition Technicians, Sea Turtle Program Manager, and Sea Turtle Program Coordinator.

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION AND RELEVANT EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

REQUIRED:

· Ability to lift 50 pounds.

· Ability to work holidays and weekends, and to perform tasks in weather typical of Florida.

· Knowledge of mathematics sufficient for common kitchen calculations. Proficiency in written and oral communication skills.

· Ability to work independently.

PREFERRED/DESIRED:

· Experience with commercial food preparation or completion of a food service training program preferred.

· Commissary/kitchen experience at an AZA-accredited facility is desirable.

CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSURE:

· First Aid/CPR certification required. Training provided by Brevard Zoo.

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

· Prepares diets according to dietary instructions for consumption by zoo animals

orders produce and confirms accuracy of deliveries.

· Loads and unloads food and supplies, rotates stock, and maintains inventory control records

responsible for maintaining animal care center including such duties as sweeping, mopping, dusting, vacuuming, disinfecting equipment and preparation areas, emptying garbage, exterminating insects, etc.

· Maintains invertebrate cultures (e.g., mealworms, super worms, crickets, etc.).

· Operates and utilizes various types of equipment and tools such as computer/copier/printer/scanner, various kitchen appliances, carts, vehicles (e.g., truck or van), manual pallet jack, fork truck, etc.

· Helps with various projects (e.g., maintaining compost, preparing animal enrichment items, etc.)

supervises volunteers assisting in commissary.

· Communicates with security as needed.

· Under special circumstances, may be asked to help with animal procedures or care

responsible for ensuring compliance with USDA, OSHA, Florida Department Of Health, and Brevard Zoo policies.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

· Must always maintain a professional and respectful demeanor.

· Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing.

· Ability to take initiative and work independently in the absence of immediate supervision.

· Ability to react calmly and objectively in emergency situations and under adverse conditions.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

(H) Heavy Work

Exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS/HAZARDS:

Indoor office environment most often with frequent movement outdoors. Exposure to extreme heat and weather conditions. Requires sitting, standing, walking, bending, stooping, kneeling, finger dexterity, talking, hearing, and visual acuity frequently.

WORK SCHEDULE:

May be required to work weekends and nights as necessary.

TRAVEL:

None

VETERINARY NUTRITION TECHNICIAN

FOR HUMAN RESOURCES USE ONLY

Department: Veterinary

Schedule: 29 hours or less. – 12 months

Content By: Manager - Veterinary Resources

Compensation: Human Resources

Revision:

Date:

Revision Control:

Initiated By:

1.0

July 09, 2024

Developed

Matt Quavillon – Resource Manager

The above information in this job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with the Zoo’s policies on evaluation of personnel.

Brevard Zoo is committed to an inclusive environment where employees are encouraged to be their authentic selves. We value the diverse qualities, perspectives, and experiences of all individuals. Join us in sharing the joy of nature to help people and wildlife thrive.

Job Type: Part-time

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Day shift

Application Question(s):

• Are you willing to undergo a pre-employment drug screening?
• Are you willing to undergo a background check in accordance with local laws and regulations?

Experience:

• culinary food preparation: 1 year (Preferred)

Ability to Relocate:

• Melbourne, FL 32940: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person