Aquatic Invertebrate Conservation Specialist

About the role

The Aquatic Invertebrate Conservation Specialist serves as the primary conservation specialist for a given taxon in the Ectotherm department. This position involves managing conservation populations, participating in the general care of assigned collection animals, maintaining exhibits, performing light exhibit construction, operating zoo vehicles, and maintaining integrity of existing graphics and exhibits.

Responsibilities

• Prepare food and water for research and conservation populations destined for release or for grant-funded research
• Participate in field collection and conservation work with species
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance
• Maintain professional conduct at all times and consistently model the organization's values in all interactions with colleagues, guests, and stakeholders
• Document and collect data
• Collaborate with Curator and Assistant Curator on all aspects for conservation for individual conservation projects
• Clean animal exhibits, and service areas
• Participate in capturing, incapacitating, and moving animals
• Afford as primary keeper for some collection animals and conservation populations of amphibians
• Assist Veterinarian staff in the treatment of collection animals
• Provide coaching and guidance to keeper staff

Requirements

• Thorough knowledge of: Aquatic animal behavior, life support systems, water quality, care, feeding, and handling invertebrates
• Ability to self-direct work tasks while ensuring safety and productivity
• Safety practices around exotic animals
• Techniques for restraining and capturing exotic and domestic animals
• Zoo policies and procedures
• Data management

Qualifications

• A BS in zoology, animal biology, animal husbandry or related field and/or at least 7 years of work experience with amphibians
• Alternatively, a master’s degree in an appropriate field and 2 years of paid experience with the taxa

Skills

• Thorough knowledge of: Aquatic animal behavior, Life support systems, water quality.
• Care, feeding, and handling invertebrates.
• Ability to self-direct work tasks while ensuring safety and productivity.
• Safety practices around exotic animals.
• Techniques for restraining and capturing exotic and domestic animals.
• Zoo policies and procedures.
• Data management.

Benefits

Nashville Zoo offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and future, including:

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage – including medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you and your family healthy.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – confidential support services for mental, emotional, and financial well-being.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching – helping you build a secure future while you make a meaningful impact today.
• Generous paid time off and sick leave – because rest and recovery are vital.
• Exclusive zoo perks – enjoy discounts on park experiences, retail, and food services, plus complimentary membership benefits.
• A collaborative and inclusive culture – be part of a diverse team where your voice matters, your growth is nurtured, and collaboration thrives across all departments.
• AZA-accredited facility – Nashville Zoo is committed to top-tier animal care, ethics and global conservation efforts.

Pay

$22.29 USD - $24.96 USD

Schedule

Must be willing and able to work any combination of five days in the seven-day workweek including weekends and holidays.

Pre-employment requirements

All candidates are required to successfully complete a criminal background check and drug screening prior to hire. Pre-employment and annual tuberculosis (TB) screenings are a condition of continued employment.