Overview

The technician is responsible for all aspects of the daily care of the Plains gartersnake and Eastern hellbender collection, under the supervision of head zookeepers.

The position is temporary through June 30, 2025

Responsibilities

• Prepares and offers diets, performs water changes, cleans enclosures, and maintains equipment.
• Adheres to biosecurity protocols.
• Maintains the cleanliness and organization of work areas.
• Maintains accurate records on animals and equipment, makes animal observations, and collects & records biological data.
• May participate in field activities.
• Reports potential issues or concerns promptly to supervisors including, but not limited to, animal health concerns, safety issues, and facility/maintenance problems.
• The ability to follow written and verbal instructions and pay attention to fine details is essential.
• Practices good communications skills and has the capacity to work well with others while maintaining the ability to work effectively as an individual.
• Implements sustainable practices in daily tasks whenever possible.
• Ability to plan and organize work in an efficient and cost‐effective manner and without direct supervision required.
• Constantly strives to further the mission of the organization and avidly supports the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Zoombezi Bay, Safari Golf Club and The Wilds.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Experience

• Experience in the handling and care of snakes required.
• Experience in the care of aquatic animals required.
• Experience in maintaining aquariums and aquatic life support equipment required.
• Experience using analytical software and programs such as Excel, ImageJ, and ZIMS preferred.

Education

• B.S. degree in biological sciences, natural resources, animal science, or related field preferred.
• Applicants must have a working knowledge of natural history, biology, animal husbandry, and conservation issues as they apply to reptiles & amphibians specifically and Ohio wildlife in general.

Physical Demands

• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs and work in inclement weather

Schedule

• Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends and holidays. Approximately 40 hours per week.