Facility
Reptile & Amphibian Discovery Zoo (RAD Zoo) in Owatonna, Minnesota
Closing Date
[jobclosingdate]
Description
Lead Keeper will be responsible for accomplishing animal care and exhibit maintenance for a diverse collection of nearly 200 species of reptiles and amphibians as well as a few species of birds, invertebrates, and fish. The candidate will supervise a small staff, as well as participate themselves in animal care. A variety of guest interactions will be required including individual guest interactions at the zoo, presentations to school groups or families in our amphitheatre, and also conducting traveling presentations at schools, daycares, birthdays and more. The position entails approximately 60% animal husbandry and 40% guest interaction/presentations. This position requires an individual with a high degree of professionalism who takes pride in work well done. This individual must be a leader and a team player. The priorities for this position include attention to animal care and health, fostering a positive team environment, and accomplishing an excellent guest experience.
Essential Job Functions
•Help to manage a small team of employees, as well as interns and volunteers, to include training them in husbandry standards and protocols, participating in evaluations, and scheduling, as well as other administrative duties.
• Assist in the care of a diverse animal collection including feeding, cleaning, exhibit design, enrichment, training, and the administration of medications when necessary.
• Keep all exhibit areas and off exhibit areas clean, neat and well organized.
• Independently conduct traveling animal outreach presentations for a variety of audiences.
• Assist in marketing the zoo.
Education and Pre-requisites
• Minimum of 2 years paid experience in a zoological facility.
• After a period of training, must be willing to work with potentially dangerous animals in the collection, including crocodilians, large pythons, and venomous snakes.
• All team members must understand the significance of their role and how they can positively impact visitors. Pro-active, friendly communication will be expected at all times, as well as anticipating visitors’ needs.
• Ability to lead, and work as a part of a team in a constantly changing environment as well as individually, with a minimum of supervision
• Needs to be an independent, problem solver
• A valid driver’s License with a good driving record
• Ability to drive a medium size SUV is required to do traveling programs. Must also be able to do simple vehicle maintenance like check and fill oil and fluids if needed.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule which may include evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Maintain a non-smoking work environment
• Adherence to zoo personal appearance standards
Guest/Customer Service Skills— must have knowledge of principles for providing quality customer service to provide great guest interaction. Also need to be able to or willing to learn how to run a cash register to check guests in and out of the zoo.
Physical Demands- Need to be able to lift 50 pounds. Able to move quickly if needed. Must be able to do some repetitive physical work such as shoveling, scrubbing, or using a shop-vac. Must be able to navigate ladders to service some exhibits.
Work Environment- Indoors when working at the zoo, must be able to work in a non-air conditioned building during the summer, with temperatures occasionally reaching into the 90’s, traveling presentations may be outdoors in nicer weather.
May be exposed to allergens such as dust and cut grass.
Pre-Employment Testing- Successful candidates must pass a background check.
Compensation and benefits
Compensation: $12 – $13.50 per hour dependent on experience
Benefits- 1 day of paid flex time accumulated once per month for full time employees. Potential for tips, commissions, and profit share. No medical benefits but health care tax credits may be available through the state.
Application instructions
Email resume and cover letter to melissa@theradzoo.com or
Mail to: 3297 N County Road 45; Owatonna, MN 55060
We will begin Skype interviews on March 14th and will accept applications until the position is filled.