Facility

Birmingham Zoo, Inc.

Closing Date

Description

JOB SUMMARY

Animal Care Professional Level II (ACP-II) is a full time position responsible for the primary daily husbandry activities of 1.1 California sea lions through a basic working knowledge of animal care and welfare. In addition to animal care and training, this position will also include daily maintenance of the sea lion life support system, behind the scenes tour and interactions, and public sea lion shows. Collectively with other zoo employees these activities will assist in presenting to the public an environment that is educational, entertaining, and serves to further the mission of the Birmingham Zoo. As part of the predator department, this position may include cross training on other routines, as needed.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Displays and demonstrates knowledge of the basic biology, behaviors, and husbandry of animals in the area.
Cleans and maintains animal holdings, including the use of chemical agents and special tools to assure the health and safety of the animals.
Uses proper techniques in shifting animals.
Maintains highest level of safety in the area.
Actively supports area policies and procedures, mission, vision, and strategic plan of Birmingham Zoo.
Identifies, recognizes, and reports any abnormal behavior of all the animals in their department.
Monitors weather related needs for the animals in their department and shelters animals appropriately.
Identifies, documents, and properly communicates any animal medical problems to the Zoological Manager and Veterinary staff in a timely and appropriate manner.
Develops a good line of communication with the Zoological Manager to ensure that all facilities and animals are in good order, and that all problems are reported.
Uses classical and operant conditioning with the animals in their department.
Utilizes and documents on the Training Log daily.
Utilizes the Environmental Enrichment Program and the enrichment requirements of the animals within their department. Properly records the results of enrichment by using the Enrichment Approval and Evaluation forms.
Creates new enrichment ideas and items to be added to their department repertoire.
Properly utilizes the animal record keeping systems within the department.
Documents animal behaviors or issues on the Daily Report.
Maintains and updates the departments’ animal files.
Responsible for capturing, crating, and transferring animals using appropriate restraint and handling techniques designed to put the least amount of stress on the animal.
Prepares and presents keeper chats to Zoo visitors and guests.
Other duties as assigned.

Education and Pre-requisites

QUALIFICATIONS

High School degree, or some college; Bachelor’s Degree in an animal related field preferred.
At least 3 years’ experience on staff in a zoological institution (AZA accredited zoo or aquarium preferred).
Experience with operant conditioning and enrichment programs.
Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills; have high energy and enthusiasm for completion of tasks; possess team building skills; and has the ability to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
Must have ability to foster teamwork within and across teams.
Competency in computer skills.
Must be dependable and demonstrate flexibility in regards to work schedules, including hours, weekends, and holidays.
Must have a current valid driver’s license with no prior traffic violations (within the last five years).
Must be First aid/CPR certified, or be willing to be certified.
Must have current negative TB test and provide documentation, or be willing to have a TB test.
Must have basic swim abilities necessary to pass a swim test.

Compensation and benefits

Competitive pay and excellent benefits package, including eligibility for PiCA program (Passion into Conservation Action).

Application instructions

Please apply on our website: www.birminghamzoo.com, About Us, Employment.