Animal Care Specialist - Wildlife Response

Summary:

This position is responsible for the routine handling and care of animals being housed in the rehabilitation and quarantine areas under the supervision of the Wildlife Response Curator at the Alaska Sealife Center. The primary focus of this position is marine mammals, though there are occasional responses to birds and other wildlife in the Seward area.

Education/Training Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in biology, animal science, zoology, veterinary science, or related profession preferred. 


• Computer skills including Google mail, spreadsheets, word processing, and database programs. 


• Must possess a valid driver’s license and be comfortable driving in rain and snow conditions.


• SCUBA certification preferred.

Specialist 1 

In addition to the above,

• Experience in animal husbandry and wildlife rehabilitation is required; experience with marine mammals is preferred.

For Specialist 2

In addition to the above,

• Experience in animal husbandry and wildlife rehabilitation is required with at least two years of experience in marine mammal rehabilitation preferred. 


• Experience with operant conditioning is also preferred.

Essential Duties:

Specialist 1

Specialist 2

In addition to the above duties,

1. Under the supervision of a veterinarian or a veterinary technician, assist with medical procedures such as blood collection, anesthesia preparation and monitoring, and animal restraint for advanced physical exams and radiographs. 

2. Under supervision of senior staff, assist in developing animal care and treatment plans. 

3. Develop supervisory skills by mentoring interns and supporting their progression through the program.

4. Leads animal pickups and releases in the field.

5. Assist with the preparation and transport of non-releasable animals to permanent placement in zoos and aquariums. 

6. Use principles of operant conditioning to shape and maintain husbandry behaviors of non-releasable animals.

Other Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to remain organized, self-motivated, independent, and attentive to cleanliness and wildlife safety awareness. 


• Willingness to work holidays, weekends, and overnights as needed to accommodate animal requirements. 


• Comfortable with social media and with potentially being filmed and interviewed while working.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities.

This role includes a range of physical activities, such as standing or moving for extended periods, bending, kneeling, crouching, and occasional climbing, as well as handling tools, equipment, and materials. The ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds may be needed depending on the assignment.

Salary Range: $20.35-$25.03(1), $23.65-$29.15(2)

Full Time with Benefits

Please submit a resume, cover letter and letter of recommendation with your application.

Must be able to pass a background check.