Facility
Fresno Chaffee Zoo
Closing Date
[jobclosingdate]
Description
Under the general direction of the Curator, this position oversees the daily operation of assigned areas. Responsibilities include meeting all husbandry standards ensuring that policies and protocols for FCZ, AZA, USDA and other federal agencies are consistently followed. Manages all staff’s daily activities in the care, display and propagation of assigned area. This position will regularly interact with Zoo guests to answer questions, provide animal information, and ensure an excellent guest experience.
This position will primarily be assigned to a specific area, but may be reassigned or requested to work in other sections as needed at the discretion of the Animal Management team.
Essential Functions:
-Performs all zookeeper essential functions as needed.
-Establishes thorough written routines for assigned section.
-Communication liaison for staff animal needs to all other departments, i.e. veterinarian, horticulture and maintenance.
-Emergency Response team member, fulfilling Recapture Coordinator role.
-Works with curator to develop animal collection plans for area assigned.
-Participates in the selection and training of new zookeeper staff.
-Assists in planning and implementing marketing activities.
-Oversees Zookeeper staff performance, providing performance evaluations, informal feedback and formal disciplinary action when appropriate, and informing -Curator of serious or ongoing issues.
-Responsible for payroll and scheduling of direct reports.
-Oversees any volunteer activities in assigned areas.
-Responds to specific inquiries from the public concerning the zoological collection, when requested
-Performs other duties, assignments, projects as requested and assists with other shifts as needed.
Management Responsibilities:
-Customarily and regularly exercises discretion and independent judgement during the course of the work day. Actively demonstrates leadership through actions, reactions, decisions, and professional demeanor. Practices solution based problem solving and learns from mistakes. Works with the team to find solutions and asks for help when you need it.
-Reports to meetings/activities fully present, prepared and punctual. Thoughtfully prioritizes needs in order to be respectful of each others time. Respond to emails and other communications in a timely manner. All written communication contains professional and proper language. Demonstrates follow through and is accountable for the management of the team.
-Willingly engages the team/ Zoo staff and proves to be an inspirational leader. -Actively create connections that encourage open and honest communication with all.
-Remains accessible to the Zoo staff by cell phone. Uses professional courtesy and only call/texts on day off in the event of an emergency.
-Provides regular performance feedback to reporting staff. Completes timely and appropriate written evaluations that highlight strengths and areas for improvement.
Leadership Responsibilities:
-Develops behavior enrichment and training programs for selected animals.
-Facilitates effective communication between the Curator and Zookeeper staff on a daily basis, ensuring that Zoo news, department updates, and other information is provided in a timely manner to the appropriate parties.
-Addresses animal issues as they arise, and provides a status/progress report to the Curator(s) on a daily basis. Requests guidance from Curator or other member of management as warranted by the situation.
-Ensures efficient and effective workflow, making appropriate logistical decisions and planning for current and future department needs, including assisting with intradepartmental scheduling.
-Provides training, mentoring and coaching to Zookeeper, Zookeeper Assistant, Intern staff, ensuring the training is consistent with current position needs and cross-functional opportunities.
-Monitors safe work practices for all section staff.
-Manages payroll for direct reports and oversees the implementation of wage and hour regulations.
-Manages the schedules for all direct reports and oversees the implementation of appropriate regulations.
-Assists Curator in developing and updating area protocols and represents the Curator in his/her absence.
Education and Pre-requisites
Qualifications/Basic Job Requirements:
-Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Animal Science, Zoology or other applicable field preferred.
-Minimum (5) years’ experience working with Ungulates and Carnivores in an AZA accredited facility preferred.
-Twelve units of accredited college or university level course work in animal science, zoology, or related field may be substituted for six (6) months experience.
-Strong verbal and written English skills and the ability to communicate effectively with the public. Bilingual skills a plus.
-Valid California driver’s license and good driving record.
-Ability to work evenings, weekdays, weekends, and holidays.
Compensation and benefits
Full time- Benefits
Application instructions
Interested Applicants should apply through our website: www.fresnochaffeezoo.org/careers