Facility
Phoenix Herpetological Society
Closing Date
[jobclosingdate]
Description
Reptile Keeper Position
Purpose: PHS is seeking an experience reptile keeper responsible for all PHS venomous snakes, oversee the non-venomous snake collection, & assist the Executive Curator with other PHS animals. The primary purpose of this position is the overall care, health, & maintenance of PHS snakes (venomous and non-venomous).
Job Description: Full time position in north Scottsdale; with hourly pay (which is negotiable based on qualifications) Work Schedule is Tuesday – Saturday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, with the understanding that some nights, weekends, and holidays are required.
Organization Information
The Phoenix Herpetological Society (PHS) is a nonprofit 501 (c) 3 rescue and conservation facility. It has a strong connection to the community for the relocation of native wildlife and is the largest reptile sanctuary in the U.S. PHS has the second largest collection of crocodilians in the US and largest collection of venomous snakes in the Southwest. In addition, PHS is involved in the breeding of endangered crocodilians and specific venomous snakes. PHS rescues and rehabilitates native and nonnative reptiles from the general public and assists local law enforcement, animal control, and humane society with animal rescues of all kinds. PHS strongly believes that education is the key to conservation and provides educational programs to all levels of schools both private and public as well as providing on site camps, animal handling and specialized training programs and more. PHS has grown exponentially and needs to expand staff to accommodate the growth. PHS is a facility with strict no tobacco policies.
Position Information
Under the supervision and management of the Executive Curator, this position will coordinate and will be responsible for the daily care, exhibit maintenance and dietary care of the 300+ venomous snakes and oversee the health and wellbeing of the nonvenomous venomous snakes that call PHS home. PHS has one of the most impressive collections of venomous snakes and facilities in the U.S. The chosen candidate should understand the PHS mission and be motivated to invest themselves in the long-term growth and future of PHS.
Primary Duties & Responsibilities:
• When handling animals all PHS policies, procedures, and protocols (including proper tools and equipment) are used/followed at all times – NO exceptions
• Ensure all anti-venom records and venomous protocols are current and accurate
• Provide proper training to staff and volunteers regarding animal care and safety protocols, such as PHS policies and procedures, proper use of tools and equipment, and approved animal handling/restraint techniques
• Ensure dietary needs are met and feeding schedules are maintained, records are current
• Timely communicate animal health/husbandry concerns to the Executive Curator
• Assist in education programs when appropriate, provide input regarding animal training programs, assist onsite events, and develop new programs or trainings for interns or other zoological facilities
• Design exhibits that are appropriate for the enclosed species and maintain cleanliness of all enclosures.
• Assist Executive Curator in assessing facility needs, coordinating exhibit maintenance, and assisting in minor improvements
• Provide knowledge in the techniques used in the breeding of exotic venomous animals.
• Ensure positive experience for visitors and offer knowledge and information when applicable or required
• Assist the Executive Curator in care of the other species that call PHS home such as crocodilians, tortoises, lizards etc..
• Prepare an annual summary report about the animals under his/her care, identifying goals, successes, and plans for the next year
Education and Pre-requisites
Qualifications:
Education: Required: Associate’s Degree in a biological sciences, herpetology, or related field
Preferred: Bachelor’s Degree in a biological sciences, herpetology, or related field
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
• Applicants must be in good physical condition, able to lift 50 pounds, and have the physical and emotional stamina to work full days in Arizona’s climate.
• Strong written and oral communication skills – Public speaking is a component of this position
• Proficient in basic word processing, excel, record keeping, and general database management
• Advanced knowledge of reptiles, both native and exotic, and their husbandry requirements
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and non-verbal
• Ability to make decisions thoughtfully, but quickly when necessary
• Professional personal appearance, the ability to work independently and as a team, and pride of one’s work are key qualifications.
Personal Characteristics:
• Ethical and professional behavior and work ethic
• Personable and relatable, to build and maintain positive relationships as well as network
• Creative
• Leadership skills
• Organized
• Problem solver
• Attention to details
• Willingness to cover tattoos (if applicable) for specific events such as presentations or media spots
Experience
• 5+ years experience in a zoo/sanctuary environment
• 8+ years experience with venomous snake handling
• 1 -2 years of supervisory or management experience
Compensation and benefits
Compensation based on experience and education – or a combination of the two. Medical insurance available.
This is a very fulfilling position that provides a much needed service to the community as well as the Phoenix Herpetological Society. This position allows for unique personal & professional growth including experiences and exposure to new & unique animals, such as endangered species, specialized CITES monitor lizards, other zoological facilities and world-renowned herpetologists, and much more.
Transportation costs to events are covered by PHS as well as additional training and learning opportunities.
Application instructions
To apply: Please send resume and cover letter to Debbie Gibson, PHS Vice President at debbie@phoenixherp.com. Emails are preferred, however if you would like to speak with her you can call 480 513 4377 X 4.
If chosen for an interview, PHS will require three references. If a job offer is made, a background check and verifiable work history will also be required.