Zoological Aide - Wild Wonders Outdoor Theater

Parks Tacoma is a CAPRA-accredited 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 many different 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:
 •Innovation  •Excellence  •Equity  •Inclusiveness  •Sustainability  •Accountability  •Safety  •Fun
 
POINT DEFIANCE ZOO & AQUARIUM
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.
 
POSITION INFORMATION
Under the direction of the Assistant Curator, this position is responsible for performing specialized work in the care, observation and maintenance of an assigned zoological area at the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium.

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.

Duties include, but are not limited to, daily husbandry of ambassador birds, mammals, reptiles, and invertebrates; maintaining records; wild animal handling; and presenting animals informally to zoo visitors.  Zoological Aides may participate in or assist with multi taxa animal presentations in the Zoo’s Wild Wonders Outdoor Theater, a covered, 350-seat amphitheater that features off-leash and free-flight behaviors. Additionally, Zoological Aides may participate in the presentation of the Bugs Alive! invertebrate program.

• Must be a high school graduate, or equivalent certification
• College degree in biological sciences desirable
• Previous exotic bird or animal husbandry experience preferred
• Must have excellent customer service and observational skills
• Must be able to communicate effectively and follow written & oral instructions
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
A resume and cover letter with dates of availability must be included with the required application form
 
HOURS: This is a Seasonal position, with the ability to work up to 40 hours per week for no more than 6 months. 

ENVIRONMENT:
Indoor and outdoor environment.
Adverse weather conditions.
Cold water while interacting with mammals.
 
PHYSICAL ABILITIES:
Lifting and carrying heavy objects or animals weighing up to 50 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.
Contact with upset or irate 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 : $18 - $21