Animal Caregiver

Primary Function

Provide care for the chimpanzees and their housing areas and improve well-being and prevent disease by close observation of chimpanzee behavior and careful cleaning procedures. Most duties performed under general supervision.

Duties And Responsibilities

• Prepare and provide food to the chimpanzees
• Clean and sanitize chimpanzee housing areas, equipment, and other related areas or materials. May use cleaning equipment.
• Remove and replace bedding.
• Observe chimpanzee behavior and appearance. Report unusual behavior or injuries.
• Transport food, bedding, or supplies from storage areas to animal areas.
• Shift training of chimpanzees
• Perform group moves of chimpanzees.
• Separate chimpanzees for sedations or introductions.
• Positive Reinforcement training with assigned chimpanzees for medical behaviors
• Create and implement feeding and/or shifting plans as needed to maintain health and welfare of chimpanzees
• Maintain Identification book of chimpanzees including photos and physical and behavioral descriptors of each chimpanzee.
• May train veterinary and behavior personnel to assist in shifting, cleaning, and feeding procedures.
• Maintain records of health, behavior, cleaning, etc.
• Provide enrichment and training to chimpanzees as directed.
• May administer medications and treatment under supervision.
• Maintain stock of feed, bedding, and cleaning supplies.
• May assist in planning and implementing special projects, including educational programs.
• May assist behavioral or veterinary staff as directed.
• May train new animal care staff and interns.
• Perform related duties as required.

Supervision and Responsibility

• Works under general supervision of Colony Director, Supervisor, or senior animal care staff.
• Does not normally supervise anyone but may serve as group leader.
• May train new employees, interns, and volunteers.
• Project Leader – oversee and direct others in maintaining specific project area (locks, tools, signs, etc.)
• May be asked to train new animal care staff in organizational procedures, such as safety training and lock-checking.
• Knowledgeable about variety of field's concepts, practices, and procedures.
• Relies on pre-established guidelines and experience to plan and accomplish goals.
• Exercises judgment to make recommendations for improvement.

Working Conditions

• This work will require bending, carrying, kneeling, lifting, listening, pulling, pushing, reading, speaking, squatting, standing, stooping, stretching, walking, watching, and writing.
• Must be steady on feet due to risk of working with unpredictable, dangerous and strong animals.
• Must be able to routinely lift and carry 50lbs for short distances.
• Must be able to assist in lifting chimpanzees (up to 75lbs).
• Duties may require driving Chimp Haven vehicles. Must have a valid driver's license and meet Chimp Haven's motor vehicle operating standards.
• Work may involve considerable outdoor work in various weather conditions.
• Potential exists for animal bites and scratches.
• Potential exposure to unpleasant odors, animal wastes, animal tissues and body fluids, toxic chemicals, zoonotic diseases (tuberculosis, shigella, etc.) infectious agents (Hepatitis B, C, HIV, etc.)
• Participation in a medical monitoring and surveillance program that includes hepatitis B and other inoculations is required.
• Weekend, holiday, and night work may be necessary.
• Safety training, equipment, clothing, and supplies will be provided.

Education And Experience Required

• High School diploma or GED required.
• Must be able to read and follow written and verbal instructions and write legibly and accurately.
• No prior animal experience required, but must have aptitude for the care and well-being of animals.

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Relocation bonus
• Vision insurance
• Wellness resources
• Competitive salary