What are the responsibilities and job description for the Apprentice (Weekend) position at Columbus Zoo Family of Parks?
**Job Summary:**
The Animal Management apprenticeship will focus on assisting the Wilds animal management program with regular animal care and various research projects. This position is ideal for students interested in a career in conservation, natural resource management, animal management, or ecological studies.
Typical Tasks:
- Daily care and management of wild animals including cleaning and feeding
- Animal observations and record keeping
- Facilities maintenance
Skills Training:
- Techniques and guidelines for working safely around wild animals
- Cleaning and disinfection of animal enclosures
- Recognizing significant changes in animal behavior or condition
- Moving animals including shifting, crating, or other transport
- Animal identification methods including ear tagging or transponder placement
- Assisting with veterinary medical procedures
- Implementation of conservation breeding programs
Responsibilities:
- Work five days per week (weekends and holidays included)
- Ability to work independently as well as in a team
- Adhere to the Wilds drug-free workplace policy
Requirements:
- Second Year College Student or recent graduate (2 years or less preferred) in Zoology, Biology, Wildlife Management, Animal Science, Veterinary Medicine, or related field
- Knowledge of exotic animals and their medicine strongly encouraged
- Ability to communicate well both verbally and in writing
- Responsibility, flexibility, self-motivation, and ability to work with proper protective equipment
Application Instructions:
To apply, send your resume with references and a cover letter outlining your interest in the position, what you would hope to gain from it, and how your past experience makes you an ideal candidate. All apprenticeships at the Wilds are competitive and we value placing individuals in programs that suit their career goals.
