Animal Care Assistant-Reptiles

Job Title: Seasonal Animal Care Assistant - Dome Reptiles

FLSA Status: Non-exempt

Hours: Part-time

About the role:

The Animal Care Assistant for the Desert Dome and Kingdoms of the Night will provide day-to-day husbandry for the animals in the Desert Dome Reptile/Amphibian Collection and will also be expected to help care for animals in the Zoos Reptile/Amphibian Collection that are maintained in other departments. This position reports directly to the Supervisor of Dome-Reptiles & Amphibian Conservation.

The Desert Dome-Reptile/Amphibian Collection is comprised of almost 1000 individual reptile and amphibian specimens. These specimens represent nearly 150 different species and include 20 venomous reptile species and 6 crocodilian species. The collection is featured in the Desert Dome, the worlds largest glazed geodesic dome and in the Kingdoms of the Night which features the worlds largest indoor swamp. Covering ¼ acre and at 160,000 gallons, The Swamp features over 65 individual turtles, a leucitic American Alligator, a small group of adult American Alligators that are involved in an intense training program and includes 5 species of freshwater fishes. The Desert Dome stands at 13 stories, covers one full acre, and features 3 major deserts: Namib of southern Africa, the Red Center of Australia and Sonora of the southwestern United States into Mexico. It is the only exhibit at Henry Doorly to feature venomous reptiles including the Black Mamba, Inland Taipan, Puff Adder and 5 species of Rattlesnakes, some of which are showcased in the worlds largest indoor rattlesnake exhibit. Reptile Keepers are also responsible for several satellite exhibits which include Grays Monitors, White-throated Monitors, and African Spurred Tortoises.

Duties and Responsibilities (include but not limited to):

• Attends to all aspects of daily animal husbandry, exhibit maintenance, and visitor service for a large and diverse collection of reptiles and amphibians in a major AZA accredited institution.
• Writes clear, concise reports and maintains accurate records on animals and aquatic systems. Practices good communications skills and has the capacity to work well with others while maintaining the ability to work effectively as an individual.
• Reports potential issues or concerns promptly to the supervisor or curator including, but not limited to, animal health concerns, exhibit failings, safety issues, facility and maintenance problems, and guest questions, complaints, or concerns. Keepers are expected to assist veterinarians and technicians during medical procedures and with administering medical treatments. Keepers may also be expected to assist other zoo personnel in making minor system/building repairs.
• Participates in and helps to develop educational presentations.
• Participates in and supports collaborative efforts pertaining to the Reptile/Amphibian Collection, such as reproduction of selected species, research, enrichment, training, and conservation programs.
• Must be team-oriented and willing to work with other staff members to further not only the goals of the Reptile/Amphibian Department but also of the Zoos Mission Statement.
• At times, this position requires intense public contact requiring considerable interpersonal ability, extensive interaction with the public and with donors, members and the press requiring a high degree of appreciation for the Public.
• Will also be required to create and deliver Power Point (or similar) presentations in professional settings.
• May be afforded the opportunity to participate in In-situ Conservation Projects.

Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• College diplomas in a related field are highly favored but not required.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Previous experience with reptiles and amphibians in an AZA institution is preferred.
• Experience with venomous reptiles is preferred. Experience with crocodilians is preferred.
• General knowledge of aquatic life support systems is preferred.
• Consideration will be given to an individuals past direct experience with exotic animals in other zoological, aqua cultural, ecological, and biological areas such as in schools, aquariums, nature centers, agricultural operations, animal merchandizing and conservation centers.
• Must have a working knowledge of Natural History, Biology, Captive Husbandry and Conservation Issues as they apply to reptiles and amphibians.
• Applicants must be individually and independently motivated to continue expanding their knowledge base as it applies to reptiles and amphibians.
• Must be willing to travel and able to work in strenuous field conditions.

Candidates might be (depending on position) required to pass a pre-employment background check, drug test, negative skin tuberculosis test, and possess a valid drivers license with a good history.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort:

• Will sometimes work extended/odd hours including weekends, holidays and some night programs.
• Must be able to walk long distances across the zoo.
• Must be able to stand, sit, kneel, bend, twist, reach above head and climb.
• Will lift, push, pull, and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally up to 50 pounds using safe and proper lifting methods.
• Must be willing to work in extreme weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, etc.) and with potentially dangerous animal species (venomous reptiles, large boas and pythons, crocodilians, etc.). Reptile keepers are expected to learn basic first aid skills and be capable in applying these skills to a potential Venomous Bite Emergency.
• The position may involve exposure to chemical substances and physical trauma of a minor nature such as cuts, bruises and minor burns.

DISCLAIMER

The information presented indicates the general nature and level of work expected of employees in this classification. It is not designed to contain, nor is it to be interpreted as, a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and objectives required of employees assigned to this job.

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer as defined by the EEOC.

Qualifications