What are the responsibilities and job description for the Animal Caretaker position at Flamingo Gardens?
Overview
Flamingo Gardens mission is to depict, preserve, and provide education about the natural and cultural heritage of South Florida and the Everglades in our botanical gardens and wildlife sanctuary.
Flamingo Gardens wildlife sanctuary is home to the largest collection of Florida native wildlife including alligators, bobcats, eagles, otters, panthers, and of course, flamingos! Most of these animals are permanently injured or non-releasable. We rehabilitate hundreds of animals every year and release as much of those as we can. Non-releasable animals live under our permanent care or are sent to other, reputable facilities.
The Animal Care Department is looking for a responsible, hard-working individual with a desire to work with native FL wildlife and educate the public about their stories.
The ideal candidate will be expected to:
- Gain knowledge of working around a variety of different animal species
- Complete daily husbandry duties. Including but not limited to enclosure maintenance, diet prep, enrichment, etc.
- Assist with exams, medical procedures, and treatments
- Assist in capture/restraint of animals
- Provide educational presentations with ambassador animals to park guests and visiting school groups
- Receive feedback from supervisors and work on independent projects to enhance their knowledge
- Be an essential member to our team
Requirements:
- 18 years of age
- Must have graduated from college-level zoology, wildlife, environmental science, ecology, biology, or related field. Equivalent hands on experience may be substituted for coursework.
- Must have reliable transportation to and from Flamingo Gardens
- Must be comfortable working outside in all weather conditions and be able to stand/walk for long periods of time.
- Must be able to lift/carry 50lbs
- Must be comfortable with public speaking and presenting in front of large crowds (20 guests)
- Must be able to commit to 32-40 hours a week (INCLUDING but not limited to weekends and holidays)
- Possess a sincere desire to work with any and all animals
- Ability to work independently and with a team
- Must have excellent communication skills
- Must be able to multi-task and work under stressful conditions
Applicants MUST submit a cover letter in addition to their resume.
Qualified applicants will be contacted via email to schedule an interview.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: From $14.00 per hour
Expected hours: 32 – 40 per week
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Day shift
- Holidays
- Weekends as needed
Work Location: In person
Salary : $14