What are the responsibilities and job description for the Primates Wildlife Care Specialist - Full Time - San Diego Zoo position at San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance?
HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION
The Wildlife Care Specialist will support San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s mission of saving species worldwide by overseeing all aspects of the safe care and handling of an assigned wildlife collection. This position reports to the Lead or Supervisor.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
Prepares food and water for habitat wildlife
Loads and unloads food from trucks
Feeds habitat wildlife
Administers prescribed medication and keeps feeding records
Observes assigned wildlife
Reports abnormal conditions to superiors
Cleans habitat areas, pools, wildlife sleeping areas and service areas
Cleans and disinfects utensils, work tools and containers
Provides species-appropriate enrichment to assigned wildlife
Maintains appropriate health and behavior records on assigned wildlife
Responds to questions from the public concerning habitats
Provides habitat security
Participates in capturing, incapacitating and moving wildlife
Participates in and supports wildlife training programs
Assists medical staff in treating wildlife
Performs minor or routine maintenance on habitat enclosures
Reports maintenance needs
Operates a variety of light and medium equipment
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
A minimum of two years working with primates in a Zoological setting. Qualifications include primate husbandry and behavioral knowledge, a basic understanding of operant conditioning, and the care and feeding of wildlife. Safety practices around wildlife required. Guest interactions/public presentations are required. The qualified candidate is expected to be a team player and have good communication skills. This position involves work with susceptible species; you will be required to show proof of TB and Measles vaccine as a condition of employment. Position also requires successful completion of a physical ability test.
JOB EXPERIENCE
One to two years of work experience in a Zoo or similar environment where appropriate knowledge and skills in wildlife care could be acquired.
EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s Degree in Zoology, Life Science, or other related field preferred.
Current valid California Driver's License in good standing.
SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
Wildlife behavior
Wildlife biology and zoology
Care, feeding and handling of wild wildlife
Safety practices around wild wildlife
Public Speaking
Deal tactfully and courteously with others
Adhere to the organization’s policies, procedures and regulations
Competently perform the essential functions outlined above