Facility

Loveland Living Planet Aquarium

Closing Date

Description

This position requires a dedicated individual who will take direction from the Lead Keeper/Trainer, Area Supervisor/Curator and/or Director of Husbandry in carrying out the operations of the mammal, reptile and avian exhibits of the aquarium. This includes all aspects of animal husbandry, exhibit maintenance and holding area management. The position will participate in and assist with the development of the mammal, reptile and bird training program, which will consist of behavioral demonstrations presented to the public on a scheduled basis by the keeper/trainers. The position will also be responsible for maintaining organized written records pertaining to health, feeding, water quality and behavioral observations. As an apprentice you will be expected to learn and improve your knowledge and skills on a daily basis.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

-As a member of the Husbandry team, you will lead by example by being patient, kind, humble, respectful, selfless, forgiving, honest and committed when interacting with one another and guests.
-Provides for the needs of all animals related to the bird, mammal and reptile collection-Journey South America, Penguin Research Station, Discover Utah, Bird Holding/TQ and our new Expedition Asia exhibit by doing exhibit cleaning and holding system maintenance, diet preparation and feeding, and enrichment.
-Presents daily shows and presentations for the public.
-Maintains records pertaining to feeding, water quality analysis, behavioral observations, training activities and medical procedures.
-Maintains exhibit quality standards through regular maintenance and cleaning activities.
-Cooperates with Animal Health Services staff for animal health issues, treatments, and veterinary procedures, transfers and crating.
-Keeps work area clean and organized and reports mechanical failures to supervisors in a timely way.
-Assists in collecting and other Husbandry department activities when needed.
-Participate in Aquarium related education, public relations and membership programs including facility tours and lectures.
-Comply with safety and security directives, policies and procedures.
-At the direction of supervisors, interact with and respond to public/media requests for information.
-Adherence to area specific standard operating procedures (SOP’s)
-Must be able to maintain discretion with confidential information.
-Prepares and continually enhances animal areas for aesthetic, reproductive, behavior, and animal safety (i.e. perching material, nest boxes, “furniture”, live or artificial plants, etc…).
-Attends departmental meetings and participates in developmental seminars and workshops as required.
-Performs other related duties as assigned.

Education and Pre-requisites

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

-Bachelor’s Degree in biology or a related field is required (3-4 years of full time mammal or avian training experience at a zoo or aquarium may be considered in lieu of a degree) with specific knowledge of animal husbandry and behavioral conditioning.
-1 years’ paid experience minimum working with animals in a zoo or aquarium setting is required. Emphasis should be on animal care and exhibit and holding area maintenance. (Domestic pets do not count)
-Must have demonstrated discipline and have a history of a consistently high degree of work quality.
-A valid driver’s license with a good driving record.
-Ability to work a flexible schedule which will include weekends and/or evenings and holidays.
-Ability to travel when necessary, usually not to exceed four weeks at one time.
-Ability to respond to emergencies on an on call basis.
-Knowledge of Word Processing and Spreadsheet software.
-Must have good written and oral communication skills.
-C.P.R./First Aid certification (preferred).
-Experience in the maintenance of aquariums, aquatic life support systems, and use of water quality testing equipment preferred.
-Ability to successfully complete a criminal history background check annually required.

PHYSICAL AND MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS:

-In good health and capable of performing strenuous and/or heavy physical labor.
-No history of allergy related to animals or plants, which might interfere with ability to work.
-Ability to remain on feet for long periods of time, climb stairs, bend and stoop.
-Ability to work in all weather conditions.
-No impairment of sight, smell, hearing, touch, balance and agility of movement which might interfere with ability to work.
-Physical strength, including the ability to lift up to 50 pounds and be able to move up to 100lbs.
-Up to date on immunizations as you may be exposed to zoonotic infections/disease.
-Proof of negative TB screening prior to placement and annually thereafter required.

Compensation and benefits

Not specified.

Application instructions

Please submit an online application at: https://thelivingplanet.com/jobs/