The Wildcat Sanctuary - Keeper
The Wildcat Sanctuary - Sandstone, MN
Posted: 02/14/2012
Application Deadline: 03/19/2012
Description
The Keepers will observe assigned animals on a daily basis, reporting any abnormalities; perform routine husbandry and environmental maintenance; feed prescribed diets; perform assigned and approved animal enrichment activities and trainings; assist in the restraint and treatment of animals; participate in non-routine animal transports, build habitats, pools and perches, along with being prepared to respond to emergency situations. Keepers will also work collaboratively with volunteers, staff and interns.
This is a full time 5 day a week salaried keeper position. This position also has a minimum of two weekday nights of overnight coverage. The individual of this position will be earning $10 hr/40 hours work week salaried; in addition to on-site housing for all overnight coverage. This position will include weekend overnight coverage (a rotating schedule with other keepers) and holidays.
Please apply by 3/19/12. Two phone interviews will be conducted, as well as a working interview will be scheduled for finalists. This projected start date of this position is May 7, 2012.
Responsibilities
Animal Care
- Observe all assigned animal specimens on a daily basis; report any observed health or behavioral abnormalities daily; report any assigned animals not observed in keeper log and to supervisor.
- Feed prescribed diets; monitor and report diet consumption. Discuss diets and feeding schedules with supervisors.
- Monitor, observe, and record animal data to determine health/illness.
- Observe and report animal behavior; perform approved behavioral enrichment activities.
- Assist in restraint and treatment of animals.
- Participate as assigned in non-routine health and husbandry activities such as animal transports, animal introductions, and the medication of animals.
- Provide preventative care, treatment and medication to animals according to standard protocol and/or as directed by supervisor or veterinarian.
Environment
- Inspect animal areas for security and safety of animals, staff and the public.
- Perform routine inspection and maintenance of buildings, enclosures, grounds, and equipment and report and structural or mechanical problems.
- Perform cleaning, maintenance and repairs to buildings, enclosures, grounds and equipment.
- Construct, modify, and maintain habitats, its contents and animal buildings.
- Participate with maintaining the grounds.
- Secure buildings, grounds and enclosures.
Perform other duties as assigned
- Assist lead keeper in training and managing interns.
- Respond to animal emergency circumstances according to approved protocols. Demonstrate knowledge of emergency procedures and SOP’s.
- Supervise and monitor the public and volunteers ensuring the safety of all individuals on property and animals.
- Assist with inventory control to maintain optimum levels of food, supplies, materials and equipment, and their cost effective procurement.
- Supervise workers and others as assigned.
- Perform record-keeping activities including logbooks, daily reports, animal records, etc.
- Participate in special events, marketing, and other promotional activities as assigned.
- Work collaboratively with other staff to meet the sanctuary’s overall revenue goals and objectives.
Requirements
- Familiarity with key message and communication; demonstrate capacity to engage and communicate with supporters.
- Four-year degree in biology/zoo related field. Exceptions can be made with the approval Executive Director.
- Minimum one (1) year experience in work relevant to related animal husbandry.
- Ability to lift up to 60 pounds.
- Able to bend, stoop, crawl and walk on uneven surfaces.
- Ability to work in extreme weather conditions from 100 degree days to freezing temperatures.
- Possession of a valid driver license.
- Must have pre-exposure rabies and tetanus vaccines.
- Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions
- Ability to work safely, recognize safety hazards, and apply proper safety precautions
- Ability to work varied schedules including weekends and some evenings and holidays
- Ability to operate vehicles such as trucks, vans, and utility vehicles, and motorized vehicles such as snow blowers and lawnmowers
- Ability to utilize hand and power tools
- Allergic conditions which would be aggravated when handling or working with animals may be a disqualification.
Compensation
How to apply
Candidates should submit a copy of driver's
license, contact information for two (2) references, unofficial or official
transcript, and a cover letter and resumé. Consideration will only be given to
those who send the required documents. The chosen individual for this position must have their own health
insurance, pre-exposure rabies vaccine and tetanus. If you wish to apply, please
send the above documents to Trista Campbell, Senior Keeper at tcampbell@wildcatsanctuary.org
or PO Box 314, Sandstone MN 55072.