Zoological Aide - Aquarium

Based on our internal equity review process, the anticipated starting wage for this position is $17.04 hourly.

PARKS TACOMA is a CAPRA and AZA-accredited, independent park district that leads efforts to build a healthy, sustainable community. Located in Tacoma, Washington, the park district is comprised of numerous facilities that offer residents a variety of recreational opportunities. From waterfront access to local neighborhood parks to large regional facilities and attractions, Parks Tacoma is both a local community asset and regional destination.

OUR CORE VALUES:
These eight core values will guide future decisions, business and operations, and the manner in which Parks Tacoma treats staff, customers and the community:
POINT DEFIANCE ZOO & AQUARIUM is the only combined zoo and aquarium in the Pacific Northwest. The 29-acre zoological park was established in 1905, and attracts over 800,000 visitors a year. It is nationally accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), which ensures rigorously high standards of animal welfare, veterinary care, conservation, education and more. The Zoo sits within 700-acre Point Defiance Park, offering spectacular views of Mount Rainier, the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. Point Defiance Zoo is operated by Parks Tacoma. For more info visithttps://www.pdza.org/.

POSITION INFORMATION: 
In the performance of their respective tasks and duties all employees are expected to:

• Perform quality work within deadlines with or without direct supervision.
• Interact professionally with other employees, customers and suppliers.
• Work effectively as a team contributor on all assignments.
• Work independently while understanding the necessity for communicating and coordinating work efforts with other employees and organizations.
• Observe applicable safety requirements, use safety equipment provided, implement appropriate safety practices at all times and report immediately any unsafe working conditions or hazards.

Under the direction of the General Curator, Assistant Curator or area Staff Biologist, perform a variety of semi-skilled duties involved in the care, observation, maintenance, propagation and management of assigned aquarium animal species and exhibits with the presentation of such species to the general public in an educational and attractive manner.

• Clean animal exhibits and holding areas to assure the health of animals and the presentation of the species in an attractive environment
• Remove animal fecal and other material on a regular basis
• Prepare, store and distribute food according to established amounts, types and diets
• Monitor feeding habits and report any changes or abnormalities
• Monitor food levels to assure sufficient quantities
• Other duties as assigned

• High School diploma, GED or equivalent certification
• Experience in the operation and maintenance of aquarium systems
• Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record
• Ability to obtain valid First Aid/CPR certification within 90 days

Desired Qualifications

• Coursework or bachelor's degree in biology, zoology or related field

HOURS

• Part time continual position, maximum of 29 hours per week

•  Hours and days each week may vary

ENVIRONMENT

• Indoor and outdoor environment

• Adverse weather conditions

• Cold water while interacting with Fish & Invertebrates.

PHYSICAL ABILITIES

• Lifting and carrying heavy objects or animals weighing up to 80 pounds

• Pushing.  Climbing.  Walking.

• Kneeling and crouching to work with and feed animals. 

• Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate specialized equipment and tools.

HAZARDS

• Exposure to potentially dangerous and sick animals.

• Exposure to animal fecal.

• Chemicals, fumes, odors, poor ventilation and noise.

• Possible contact with angry or upset visitors.

PARKS TACOMA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, political affiliation, disability or any other merit factor. Members of ethnic minorities, women, special disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam-era, recently separated veterans, and other protected veterans, persons of disability and/or persons age 40 and over are encouraged to apply. Parks Tacoma employs only U.S. citizens and lawfully authorized non-U.S. citizens. All new employees must show employment eligibility verification as required by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
 
Parks Tacoma is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact Human Resource (253) 305-1089 or HR@tacomaparks.com.
 
Employment is subject to a national background check.
 
This position is an at-will position with no written or implied contractual agreement.

Salary : $17 - $21