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SUMMARY
Keepers are primarily responsible for providing exceptional husbandry to terrestrial animals (primarily herpetofauna and arthropods). Responsibilities include daily dietary and behavioral observations, cleaning and maintaining exhibit and holding areas, performing regular training, welfare assessments, and keeping accurate and timely records. Keepers use independent judgment and critical thinking to problem solve, when necessary, while understanding that an individual animal’s ability to exert meaningful choice and control is central to excellent welfare. Keepers practice good communication skills and model positive, encouraging behaviors to nurture a team oriented environment. Keepers also demonstrate a commitment to reaching the goals and objectives of the department and mission of the California Science Center Foundation.
QUALIFICATIONS
Good Candidate
Must possess strong observational skills to ensure animal health and safety.
Has knowledge of safe animal handling practices and maintaining a safe working environment.
Possesses the ability to work safely in wet conditions and outdoors in inclement weather.
Has the ability to lift and carry 50 pounds, kneel, bend, crouch, squat, and stand for extended periods of time and operate power tools safely.
Must possess sound judgement and ability to use common sense for effective decision-making. Ability to adapt to changes and react appropriately in emergency situations.
Has strong written and verbal communication skills.
Has well rounded computer (MS Office programs such as Excel, Work, and Outlook) and organizational skills.
Can work independently as well as within a team environment.
Capable of training and working alongside volunteers while setting a positive example.
Can work a flexible schedule that includes weekends and holidays as required.
Great Candidate
Has a bachelor’s degree in biology, a related field, OR equivalent experience.
Has at least one year of experience providing daily husbandry to terrestrial animals (herpetofauna, small mammals, and arthropods), preferably in an AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums) accredited institution.
Understands modern principles of animal care and welfare, including behavioral enrichment, behavioral observation, medical treatments, exhibit displays, nutrition, disease, transport, and training.
Has acquired exposure or knowledge of herpetological and invertebrate life of the Sonora desert and tropical ecosystems.
Has familiarity with Federal, State, and local laws, regulations, codes, and ordinances applicable to possessing native and exotic animals, as well as AZA standards for animal care and welfare.
Has training utilizing Tracks record-keeping system.
MAJOR JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
Is responsible for daily husbandry of terrestrial animals, which includes herpetofauna, small mammals, and arthropods. May provide care and husbandry to other living collections as needed, including aquatic animals.
Conducts daily observation and timely recording of animal health indicators such as, animal diet intake, body condition, and behavior. Prompt reporting of noted abnormalities or health concerns and treatment of injured/diseased individuals as prescribed by the veterinarian.
Prepares diets and feeds animal collection. Promotes species-appropriate behavioral opportunities through training and enrichment. Keeps exhibits and surrounding spaces clean and well maintained, ensuring equipment and tools are clean, organized, and functioning properly.
Ensure strict cross contamination protocols are followed, and any breaches of those protocols are documented.
Practices good judgement in decision making as related to animal care, emergency situations, and projects.
Communicates effectively and works collaboratively with other keepers, senior keepers and Director of Husbandry to meet the highest standards of animal care.
May assist with acquiring specimens through organization of trades/loans/purchases with other zoological institutions, suppliers, and collection trips when required.
Works independently as well as collaboratively with the Terrestrial team on daily tasks and special projects.
Trains, develops, and oversees the work of Terrestrial volunteers.
Adheres to and abides by Federal, State, and local agency laws, regulations, codes, and ordinances, as well as AZA standards.
Contributes to the strategic goals of the Living Collections department by promoting, supporting, and engaging in a positive, fun, and compassionate working environment.
Represents the California Science Center Foundation in a professional manner.
Performs other duties as required.
COMPENSATION
Salary: $23.54 - $25.50 / Hour
Don't meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. The California Science Center Foundation is dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyways. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.
