Reptile Encounter Keeper

SEEKING CANDIDATES WHO CAN START IMMEDIATELY

Animal World & Snake Farm Zoo is looking to for a seasonal candidate to join our dynamic reptile team, working with and around a wide variety of herpetological species, including a large number of snakes and small crocodilians; previous experience with animals is preferred, but not required. Other animals will include non-venomous snakes, lizards, turtles/tortoises, and amphibians. This candidate will start training immediately and may work 40 hours per week during March 8th-23rd. Additional hours available through April. This position is primarily responsible guest interactions, including providing private animal encounters for guests with ambassador reptiles and shows. The chosen candidate will learn to handle and present ambassador animals including large pythons, juvenile crocodilians, small snakes, and tortoises. This individual may also assist with the daily care, maintenance and observation of the assigned animal collection and associated facilities. The ideal candidate will be comfortable speaking with guests, have experience with presentations, be a team player, and a positive coworker . The priorities for this position include attention to animal care and health, fostering a positive team environment, and accomplishing an excellent guest experience through shows, encounters, and informal interactions.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Presenting various species to visitors in shows and private encounters
• Understanding the significance of their role and how they can positively impact visitors; proactive, friendly communication will be expected at all times, as well as anticipating visitors’ needs and desires
• Assist with facility upkeep including glass cleaning and general cleaning
• Providing general husbandry for a wide range of animals through cleaning, diet preparation and distribution, watering, observing, enclosure upkeep, propagation, monitoring health, and medicating under veterinary supervision
• Exceptional use of time management techniques
• Keeping all on- and off- exhibit areas clean, neat, and organized
• Demonstrating a positive attitude and willingness to adopt a general philosophy/outlook in line with the Zoo’s mission
• Take direction from the Reptile Curator and perform daily husbandry duties, tasks, and non-routine assignments within the work day
• Work collaboratively with other zoo staff and departments to accomplish zoo initiatives
• Using email, Google Drive and related programs, and digital task management systems on a daily basis
• Performing other related duties as assigned

EDUCATION AND PRE-REQUISITES

The successful candidate will have excellent public interaction and communication skills and display comfort working with ambassador reptiles. Candidates may have a proven record of animal care. Candidates will need to have good communication skills, be able to follow specific instructions, and communicate activities and observations clearly in writing and verbally. Applicants must be able to present to small and large crowds and work well with large groups of children. Physical requirements include working outdoors in any weather, lifting 50 pounds, and repetitive work such as raking and shoveling.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

This is a part time seasonal position that involves working on weekends and holidays, including spring break.

Job Types: Part-time, Seasonal, Temporary

Pay: $13.50 - $15.00 per hour

Expected hours: 35 – 40 per week

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Holidays

Work Location: In person

Salary : $14 - $15