Overview

Entry level Zookeeper position at Audubon Zoo, this position encompasses semi-skilled professional work in the routine daily care of assigned animals and exhibits. Reporting directly to the Assistant Curator of an assigned area, and under the general supervision of the Curator, Zookeeper II’s: work under the close direction of higher level Zookeepers in performing the daily routine care of assigned animals, exhibits & surrounding areas. Zookeeper II’s participate in the training and supervision of interns and volunteer staff, and develops on the job knowledge of assigned animals.

To deliver on the Audubon mission, the Zookeeper II will:

Provide a guest experience of outstanding quality.

•    Identifies and corrects minor or routine maintenance problems and reports other maintenance needs directly to supervisor.
•    Assists in developing new facilities and improving existing ones as assigned.
•    Under direction, the ability to exercise sound judgment to evaluate any emergency situations that arise.
•    Ability to work as a team with volunteers and other staff
•    Interacts positively with the public and co-workers.

Enhance the care and survival of wildlife through research and conservation.

•    Under direction, observes general animal health and behavior on a daily basis and reports any abnormal situations to a supervisor.
•    Maintains records of health and behavior status of animals in designated area as directed.
•    Prepares and follows prescribed diets and feeding procedures.
•    Participates in behavior modification and enrichment programs as assigned.
•    Assists in training, supervision, evaluation and assignment of volunteers as needed.
•    Participates in capturing, restraining, and moving animals as trained and directed.
•    Performs other duties assigned by supervisor.
•    See ADDENDUM for “section specific” duties, certifications, etc.
The above listed duties are general statements of required major duties and responsibilities performed on a regular and continuous basis. They do not exclude other duties as assigned.

To deliver on the Audubon service promise, the Zookeeper II will:

Welcome

•    Make eye contact with every customer encounter, smile at every person, offer friendly phrases and greetings.
•    Wear identification badge.
•    Walk individual to destination instead of pointing; offer assistance to people who look confused.
•    Assume ownership of potential safety hazards (wipe-up spill, pick up trash). Always have the camera-ready look.

Share

•    Maintain positive attitude, pleasant tone of voice (remember it is not what you say, but how you say it).
•    Co workers are to be coached on service expectations.
•    Utilize the power of teamwork to give excellent service.
•    Know when to involve management.

Inspire

•    Know the answers to questions or seek out the answers.
•    Utilize proper phone etiquette (answer phone within three rings, smile before answering call, ask for permission and wait for response before placing caller on hold).
•    Ensure work area is free of food, drink, socialization, and personal business.
•    Follow Dress Code Policy on clothing and grooming.
•    Keep unpleasant concerns behind closed doors (vent backstage).

Supervision: N/A
Experience:

•    High School diploma and 2 years of animal experience at an AZA institution or an Associate’s degree and 18 months animal experience at an AZA institution or a Bachelor’s degree in Biology (or related field).
•    A general knowledge of zoonotic diseases and their prevention

Education:

•    High School degree or equivalent
•    College credits in Biology or related field
•    Bachelor’s degree in related field preferred
•    Accurate oral and written communication skills
•    General knowledge of animal behavior and biology

Licensure/Certification:

•    Current TB test
•    Current rabies vaccinations as required by department
•    Must maintain a valid La. Driver’s License
•    Current Tetanus shot

Software Requirements:

•    Proficiency in basic computer processing
Machinery/Tools/Equipment Requirements:
•    Operates medium and heavy equipment as needed.
•    Ability and willingness to operate power tools, lawn equipment, etc.
•    Must have the ability to use mobile devices, computer, fax, scanner, phone, and copy machine.

Physical Requirements:

•    Willingness to work outdoors.
•    Sitting or standing, bending, stooping, and per OSHA regulations: Heavy work involving lifting no more than 100 pounds at a time with frequent lifting or carrying objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
•    Risk periodic exposure to fairly predictable and controllable hazards associated with wild animal and zoonotic diseases.
•    Assists veterinary and curatorial staff in treating animals as assigned and prescribed.
•    Willingness to learn.
•    Regular hearing and the ability to perceive the nature of sounds.

Environmental/Working Conditions:

•    Willingness to work overtime including weekends and holidays, and be available based on special needs/circumstances on a 24 hour basis.
•    Willingness to serve on the zoo’s Hurricane Team if necessary.
•    Cleans animal areas and grounds.
•    Maintains off-exhibit areas in a clean, organized and safe fashion.
•    Willing to perform pest control duties as necessary.