Seasonal Animal Care Assistant - WNC Nature Center

Summary

This position will NOT be eligible for benefits, paid leave time (vacation, sick, holiday) nor participation in the retirement system.
This position will remain open until filled or until May 22, 2015.

About our opportunity:
The City of Asheville is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Animal Care Assistant - Temp/Seasonal in the Community and Regional Entertainment Facilities department. The WNC Nature Center is a wildlife park that connects people with the animals and plants of the Southern Appalachian Mountain region. This temporary, seasonal role supports the Center’s mission through hands-on animal care and habitat maintenance.

What you’ll be doing:

• Assist Animal Care Naturalists with daily husbandry for non-dangerous animals, including cleaning, feeding, and enrichment.
• Clean enclosures using rakes, shovels, and chemicals; handle and prepare raw meats and rodents.
• Observe animal behaviors and assist with documentation or basic behavioral interventions.
• Support enrichment programs to encourage natural behaviors and prevent stereotypic behaviors.
• Assist with basic veterinary care such as preparing medications, administering fluids, and monitoring animals during procedures.
• Aid in the transportation, capture, or restraint of animals as directed.
• Conduct routine habitat maintenance, including mowing, trimming, and upkeep of fencing and aquatic systems.
• Operate tools and equipment safely, including power tools and lawn care machinery.
• Follow safety and emergency protocols related to animals, weather, hazardous materials, and injuries.
• Participate in safety drills, team meetings, and weekend communication through written logs or debriefs.

Benefits:

• Salary: $20.37/hour

About you:
We know your time is valuable. Applicants who meet the following minimum requirements or have comparable experience and/or education will be considered:

• Six months of experience in animal husbandry, wildlife rehabilitation, veterinary care, or zoo/aquarium settings plus a High School Diploma/GED.

Performance Aptitudes:

• Ability to work independently and follow written protocols with strong attention to detail.
• Comfortable handling animals, raw meat, and performing tasks involving harsh chemicals.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills with both staff and guests.
• Willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and physically demanding environments.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks such as raking, shoveling, scrubbing, bending, and lifting.
• Able to stand and walk for long periods and operate heavy equipment safely.

Persons of all genders and races are encouraged to apply.

Work Schedule: This is a temporary, seasonal position with flexible hours including weekends and holidays, as needed by the facility.

About us:
The City of Asheville is dedicated to providing quality service for the residents and visitors of our beautiful city, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina. Asheville, NC is a thriving mountain city that has a culture enriched in diversity.
The City of Asheville values and respects a diverse community, workforce and ideas, and is committed to promoting an equitable, fair, and just employment environment. Our organization seeks to create and provide access and opportunities to employees, residents and visitors to fulfill their potential through inclusive engagement practices, relationship building and an authentic sense of belonging. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information or veteran status. The City of Asheville is proud to be a second chance employer.
The City of Asheville is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.