Description

Position Summary:

The Registrar’s responsibilities include managing the institution’s animal records and related policies, validating the quality of recorded data, and ensuring the legal compliance of all animal transactions. This position also serves as liaison to relevant government agencies, other zoological institutions and conservation organizations, including Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), specific to the role of the Registrar function.

This position reports to the Animal Care Operations Curator. This position supports in the oversight of the development and implementation of the management strategies of the animal collection and staff. The Registrar is expected to support the Zoo in its mission “to support desert conservation through preservation, education and appreciation.” The Registrar will help the Zoo achieve a forward-thinking vision of a modern zoo and inclusive culture.

Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Manages and maintains both active and inactive animal records systems ensuring data quality, appropriate retention, preservation, accessibility and animal census/inventory process
• Manages and monitors animal transaction paperwork and coordinates with animal care management staff to ensure legal compliance with local, state, federal and international laws, government regulations and industry-specific standards
• Performs all duties associated with the acquisition and management of local, Federal and state wildlife permits and licenses
• A liaison between the institution and government agencies, Species360 and AZA conservation programs, providing each with accurate collection information as required
• Recommends and establishes animal records management programs to ensure best practices for records retention, disposition, preservation and related systems management
• Trains team members in animal record keeping, records management and animal data standards
• Participates in Zoological Registrars Association, AZA and other appropriate professional associations in an effort to develop and set standards for animal data management and continually elevate the level of professionalism for the Registrar position
• Coordinates animal shipments while collaborating with Animal Care Curator team, which includes transporting of animals
• Inputs and maintains animal collection data using industry standard software and following professionally recognized practices and institutional policies 
• Prepares documents for pertinent inspections: USDA, California Department of Fish & Wildlife, US Fish & Wildlife
• Assists Animal Care leadership in managing acquisition and disposition of animal collection, prepares and maintains related documents 
• Assists Animal Care leadership in preparing documents related to animal management and departmental operations as needed

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Zoology, Biology, Animal Science, Records Management or other related degree with 1-3 years of related experience is preferred
• Knowledge and experience in record collections management, database management, standards, policies and principles preferred.
• Proven supervisory, interpersonal, communication and leadership skills preferred. Will substitute training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skill, and abilities. (Generally, one year of paid full time exotic animal experience substitutes for one year of college level work.)
• Knowledge and experience with record keeping software such as Species 360, ZIMS, ARKS, TRACKS 
• Knowledge of animal welfare and wildlife laws and regulations specific to exhibition, breeding and domestic and international transport
• Highly professional, motivated, forward thinking individual who will build positive working relationships while demonstrating sensitivity to the “mission” of the Zoo
• Knowledge/familiarity with AZA accreditation standards, code of ethics and representative husbandry standards. Familiar with AZA and other captive population management programs, such as studbooks, SSP’s, TAG’s, etc.
• Ability to effectively communicate written and verbally with all TLD Team levels, Board, senior and middle management, donors, volunteers and guests
• Analytical, interpersonal, public relations, presentation, computer, common software and communication skills both verbal and written
• Valid California driver’s license; must be insurable on The Living Desert’s automobile insurance

Working Conditions:

• Standing, walking, twisting, climbing, crawling, kneeling, reaching motions, lifting (up to 50#)
• Exposure to extreme heat, chemicals and dust/airborne materials.
• Holiday, evening, weekend work may be required. Available on an as needed basis for emergencies and events.
• Travel opportunities for conferences, workshops and/or conservation projects as appropriate. Some or all expenses paid.