Organization: Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
(AZA Member)
Location: Powell, OH, Country
Job or Internship: Job
Responsible for the daily care of primarily animals within assigned team as well as all other animals within the region; tests water quality and monitors life support systems and all region exhibit and grounds maintenance.Typical Tasks: Performs care of the region’s animals, including food preparation, feeding, monitoring diets, watering, bathing, enrichment, observing medical and behavioral changes, and behavioral stimulation and may assist with medical treatment as prescribed by Zoo Veterinarians. Cleans and maintains animal exhibit areas, performs basic horticulture work (e.g. caring for region’s egress/ingress, general grounds beautification) and disinfects animal enclosures. Performs minor maintenance, water quality testing, water changes, filter maintenance and other work related to aquatic systems. Assures the safety of self, animals, co-workers and visitors by observing safety guidelines when working with animals, equipment and vehicles. Provides educational information about animals by interacting with the public, conducting tours and workshops, attending docent meetings and composing articles for zoo publications. Maintains daily and monthly records on animals. May provide leadership to seasonal employees (e.g. provide daily work direction, inform management of problems). Performs other duties as assigned.Requirements and Desired Abilities: Bachelor’s degree in zoology, animal science, biology or relevant field required. Fours years of relevant zookeeping experience may be substituted for degree. Experience in zoo keeping (6 months to one year) required. Demonstrated ability to perform strenuous physical work without limitations required. Demonstrated ability to communicate well both verbally and in writing required. Ability to efficiently manage time and work without direct supervision. Ability to develop and maintain cooperative working relationships with all Zoo staff. Demonstrated ability to adhere to standard operating procedures including but not limited to safety protocols required. Demonstrated ability to work a flexible schedule required. Possession of a valid Ohio motor vehicle operator’s license and a good driving record, as well as ability to operate standard shift vehicles required. Demonstrated ability to develop and deliver informational presentations to small, medium or large groups required. Minimum six months animal husbandry experience working with primates, swine, hoofstock and birds preferred. Proof of negative TB screening proper to placement into classification and annual thereafter. Demonstrated ability to adhere to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s drug-free workplace policy including but not limited to pre-employment, random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion and follow-up treatment.
apply online at www.columbuszoo.org