What are the responsibilities and job description for the Zoo Curator - Health, Zoo position at City of Alexandria, LA?
The purpose of this classification is to perform responsible work caring for all aspects of the health and overall well being of the animal collection.
Manages and maintains the zoo hospital: ensures the cleanliness of the building; cleans/disinfects cages and habitats in the hospital and quarantine areas by sweeping, mopping, raking, bleaching pools etc.; procures and maintains an inventory of hospital and medical supplies.
Ensures health care for all animals: makes daily rounds to observe entire zoo collection for health problems; runs lab samples on animals to detect parasites or other abnormalities; arranges visits with veterinarian; provides nursing care to sick or injured animals; administers all medications prescribed by veterinarian; assists with surgery, treatments; administers preventative medicine practices ( vaccines, fecal tests, flea and pest control); prepares and provides food and enrichment to animals in hospital area; conducts research and consults with veterinarians and Para professionals on current zoonosis or emerging diseases.
Handles, prepares and/or maintains the appropriate paperwork necessary to the functions of this position: maintains all medical records of zoo animals; prepares records and permits for all acquired and dispositioned animals; prepares and submits all required permits for operations of zoo facilities; keeps all animal husbandry records necessary for AZA accreditation.
Supervises zookeepers in their daily tasks: supplies instructions to zookeepers for proper diets of collection; assists with developing and administering training for personnel involved in animal health care or veterinary practices.
Provides information and assistance to the visiting public: answers questions and presents information; assists in special events; may assist in educational programs or public relations work promoting the zoo.
Participates in the capture and restraint of wild and potentially dangerous animals, which may or may not be sedated.
Captures and transports animals: moves animal between exhibits and the hospital area; assists with the transportation of animals to and from the airport or other zoos.
High School diploma or GED, with vocational/technical training, or college coursework in veterinary sciences; Bachelor’s degree in Zoology or related field is preferred; supplemented by two (2) years of experience in animal health care or related field; or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job. Must possess a valid driver’s license and Veterinary Technician’s license. Will be required to obtain a valid State of Louisiana driver’s license at time of appointment and maintain throughout employment for this classification. Will be required to obtain a valid Louisiana Registered Veterinary Technician certification within six (6) months of appointment.
Salary : $43,520 - $52,215
