What are the responsibilities and job description for the Animal Care Technician (PT) position at Woodcock Nature Center?
Animal Care Technician
Job Overview:
The Animal Care Technician will play a crucial role in the care and well-being of our diverse collection of reptiles, amphibians, and birds of prey, which contribute to Woodcock’s goals of environmental education and wildlife conservation. This position is part-time and approximately 20 hours per week. Ideal candidates should live in close proximity to the organization.
Responsibilities:
- Provide daily care, feeding, and enrichment activities for a variety of animals.
- Maintain clean and safe habitats, ensuring that all enclosures meet or exceed industry standards.
- Monitor and assess the health and behavior of animals, promptly reporting any concerns.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of animal feeding, weights, activities, health observations, and behavioral notes.
- Work closely with other staff members to ensure the seamless operation of the animal care program.
- Assist with visitors and education programs as needed.
- Ensure that all animal care areas and public spaces are organized, well-maintained, and create a positive and welcoming environment for visitors.
- Perform and assist with all other duties as needed by the Animal Curator.
Required Qualifications:
- Must live within 45 minutes of the organization.
- Must have reliable transportation.
- High school diploma or equivalent; additional education or relevant experience
- Previous experience in animal care- ideally in a zoo, nature center, veterinary, or similar setting. Experience in live exhibit and facility maintenance.
- Strong knowledge and passion for nature conservation, environmental education, and animal husbandry.
- Ability to work independently and to carry out assignments to completion.
- Strong organizational and multitasking skills with meticulous attention to detail.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, both verbal and written and ability to work in a small team-oriented environment.
- Flexibility to work weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed.
- Proficiency in spreadsheets i.e Excel and Google sheets. Database management experience a plus.
- Position contingent upon a satisfactory completion of a background check.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to stand/walk for extended periods of time.
- Able to lift 40 lbs.
- Flexibility to work in indoor and outdoor work environments including exposure to outdoor elements.
- Must be willing to work with/handle birds of prey, snakes, insects, and spiders.
Reports to: Animal Curator
Schedule: Monday-Friday 9-1pm; some weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed as well as occasional work with the public at special events.
Compensation: $18-$20 per hour, based on experience.
Benefits: Because this is part-time, this position will not be eligible for Woodcock’s benefits or paid vacation but is eligible for program discounts.
To apply: Send a cover letter, resume and two professional references to Jennifer Bradshaw at jbradshaw@woodcocknaturecenter.org **Applications without all documents will not be considered.**
Woodcock Nature Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $18.00 - $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Application Question(s):
- Applicants must leave in a 45 minute radius of this position. Do you live within the radius?
Experience:
- Animal Care or Animal Husbandry: 1 year (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Wilton, CT 06897 (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $18 - $20