Facility
Wonder Gardens
Closing Date
[jobclosingdate]
Description
Joining the Wonder Gardens team provides the opportunity to work with one of Southwest Florida’s favorite attractions. Performing daily husbandry, diet preparation, and training, the Mammal Specialist is responsible for ensuring the highest standards of animal care and must demonstrate integrity, self-accountability, and self-development. A list of essential responsibilities includes:
Implement and manage species-specific enrichment schedule
Contribute to a positive work environment and team dynamic
Supervise and train animal care interns and volunteers
Performs the daily husbandry and assists in the management, health, diets, enrichment, and behavioral conditioning of all animals
General knowledge of husbandry requirements and the prevention of zoonotic diseases
Assists in the overseeing and the evaluation of new wildlife, quarantine, preparedness of new housing and introduction to new habitat
Assists in the maintaining of records of collections and veterinary history
Engage with guests through scheduled encounters, educational programming, and media events
Close observation of animal behaviors with a particular focus on appropriate appetite, mobility, and waste production to monitor health of animals, notification of appropriate animal care staff with any concerns
Provides necessary veterinarian treatment of wildlife when needed
Must be prepared to assist with emergencies to ensure animal well-being.
Helps in improving current exhibits as directed by the Curator of Collections & Exhibits
Available to attend special events as needed including and not limited to evenings and weekends
Provide information in a timely and accurate manner, including prompt follow-up communications
Assist with plans, concepts, blueprints, signs, and illustrations for new exhibit spaces
Develop special projects, as directed by manager or supervisor
Able to be on call in the event of emergency weather situations (i.e., hurricanes, tropical storms, severe thunderstorms, etc.)
Implement and manage species-specific enrichment schedule in assigned areas
Maintains records of collections and veterinary history
Education and Pre-requisites
Associates or bachelor’s degree zoology, biology, or equivalent
Minimum 1 year experience as an otter keeper in a zoo, museum, or environmental organization
Knowledge regarding all types of reptiles, birds, and mammals
General knowledge of accreditation standards for animal care
Able to manage multiple projects, handle interruptions and shifting priorities, maintain focus on tasks, and pay meticulous attention to detail
Self-motivated with excellent time management skills and accuracy
Strong written and verbal communication and the ability to communicate effectively with colleagues and the public
Able to work independently and as a team member, and assume new responsibilities as determined
Commitment to the mission, vision, and values of the Wonder Gardens
Must be able to demonstrate proficiency in public speaking and guest interaction
Ability to handle confidential information in a professional and discrete manner
Have consistent and reliable transportation to and from work
Must be authorized to work in the U.S. for any company
Must be available days, evenings, and weekends
Must be able to think creatively and demonstrate excellent oral and written communication skills free from errors
Ability to work independently at times with minimal supervision, as well as on a team, as necessary
Knowledge of contemporary animal training techniques
Strong organizational and leadership abilities
SCUBA certification highly desired
Compensation and benefits
This is a full time non-exempt position. Salary and benefits will be discussed during the interview process.
Application instructions
Please submit a cover letter and resume to kaitlyn@wondergardens.org if interested.