Senior Wild Animal Keeper, Queens Zoo

About the role

The Provisional Senior Wild Animal Keeper reports to the Supervisor of Animals/Animal Dept. Curator and manages no positions directly.

Principal Responsibility

• Supervise and provide leadership in assigned section of zoo, taking responsibility for daily animal care activities of keepers, trainees or interns as assigned.
• Perform and supervise safe, proper and humane care of assigned animals according to established protocols or under the direction of the supervisory/curatorial staff.
• Prepare and supervise animal diets according to established protocols or under the direction of the supervisory/curatorial staff.
• Perform and supervise safe and proper maintenance of assigned animal exhibits, holding facilities and associated service areas according to established protocols or under the direction of the appropriate senior wild animal keeper and/or the supervisory/curatorial staff.
• Assist curatorial/supervisory staff in developing safe, proper and humane protocols for the management and maintenance of the animal collection, exhibits, holding facilities and associated service areas.
• May provide guidance and on the job training to other employees.
• Aid zoo guests and provide information concerning the Queens Zoo, guest services, exhibits and the animal collection.
• Enforce the Queens Zoo’s visitor rules and regulations.

Qualifications

• Valid current driver’s license (preferred).
• Computer proficiency required.
• Some experience with animal management software such as ZIMS, Trax, MedArks, etc.
• Bachelor’s Degree with major in biology or a related field with three years recent, full time paid experience in the handling, feeding and care of animals in a zoo or on a stock farm with experience supervising animal care staff OR an equivalent combination of education or experience.
• Ability to represent WCS in a professional manner and to establish and maintain positive, effective working relationships with employees, colleagues, City and other government agencies, outside contractors, and the general public.

Physical Requirements & Workplace Conditions

• The position requires outdoor work in all weather conditions.
• Tasks require manual dexterity and ability to safely use tools (e.g. drill, wire cutters, computer keyboard) and operate equipment.
• Some tasks require climbing, kneeling, bending, navigating uneven terrain, and moderate lifting up to 50 pounds.
• Ability and willingness to work weekends, holidays, evenings and special events as the schedule demands.

Benefits

Not specified.

Pay

$54,473.00 per year

Schedule

Not specified.