ANIMAL CARE (SEASONAL) - WATER'S EDGE TEAM
DEPARTMENT
Animal Care
CLASSIFICATION
Non-Exempt
REPORTS TO
Animal Care Manager
DIRECT REPORTS
N/A
STARTING PAY
$15.00/hour
POSITION DESCRIPTION:
The Animal Care Seasonal employee performs routine work assignments involving the care of Zoo & Aquarium animals, as well as maintenance of habitats, enclosures, service areas, and animal holding areas. This position performs related work, as required.
This position will work with the Water's Edge Team, which is responsible for the daily husbandry of polar bears, California sea lions, southern sea otters, North American river otters, five species of penguins (King, Gentoo, Chinstrap, Macaroni, Humboldt), and trumpeter swans.
This is a seasonal position, working 40 hours per week, typically running November - February. Seasonal start and end dates can vary based upon individual availability and team needs.
POSITION DUTIES & ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Duties:
Percentage
Assists with the daily care of assigned team’s animals, including:
Observing, logging, and reporting issues concerning animal behavior, health, and welfare.
Assisting with training animals for basic husbandry behaviors.
Aiding with animal health procedures, under supervision.
Assisting with the creation of various enrichment items/strategies.
40%
Assists with daily maintenance of exhibits and holding areas, including:
Cleaning habitats, holding stalls and animal areas.
Performing minor repairs and improvements of habitats, under supervision.
Reporting maintenance issues and potential safety hazards to appropriate manager.
Performing lawn and other horticultural maintenance.
45%
Interacts with Zoo & Aquarium guests and staff, including:
Performing or assisting with various animal chats and animal shows.
Engaging with visitors to answer questions about the Zoo & Aquarium and animals.
Learning to work professionally as part of a team.
15%
*This position may at times be requested to perform other duties or special projects as assigned, which are in the best interest of the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. Additionally, specific duties and percentages may vary slightly between each Animal Care Team.
*All employees must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily and, upon request, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION & FORMAL TRAINING:
High school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) certificate required.
Completing coursework for a degree in biology, animal science, zoology, or related field desired.
EXPERIENCE:
Previous exposure to Zoo and Aquarium animals through internships, seasonal work, or other similar experiences in the care of animals is desired.
Knowledge of animal behavior and procedures used for the proper care of handling exotic and domestic animals.
Strong observational skills to recognize and evaluate conditions of animal health, diets, and behavior.
Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions, including procedures for care and maintenance of animals, habitats, service areas, and holding areas.
Strong verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills.
OTHER MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: Must have valid driver’s license.
Must have or be able to obtain negative TB test.
Must be able to lift 50 pounds and have sufficient mobility to ensure a safe work environment.
Must be able to stand for extended periods of time.
Must be able to manage stress and make immediate decisions concerning the safety of animals, staff, or the public.
Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and evening hours, in all weather extremes.
Must pass a background and drug screening.
