Animal Keeper

Animal Keeper – County of Bergen – Department of Parks & Recreation

Under direction, feeds and cares for mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians in accordance with established programs; carries out regular maintenance program of cages, pens, paddocks, and other areas; provides daily enrichment to animal collection in accordance with AZA and USDA guidelines. Does related work as required:

Knowledge and Job Responsibilities: (may include but not limited to)

· Carries out a regular scheduled program designed to ensure prompt feeding, cleaning and care to the animal collection assigned.

· Effectively monitors health and behavior of the animal collection and communicate changes to supervisor and veterinary staff.

· Carries out regular daily maintenance program involved in keeping cages, pens, paddocks, and animal areas in good repair and in a manner that insures maximum cleanliness and neatness.

· Performs minor repairs to animal displays and exhibits.

· Carefully enforces established zoo regulations relating to protection of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians in a manner that protects them and the safety of the public.

· Maintain positive relationships within the work environment. Positively promotes and fosters work that improves department function and productivity.

· Works to meet and exceed the AZA guidelines for animal welfare. Supports the Bergen County’s Zoo vision and mission statement.

· Actively participate to improve job knowledge and professional development through conferences, seminars, and workshops.

· Dependable and willing to work flexible hours, weekends, and holidays.

Schedule:

· 40hrs/wk. – Overtime maybe required on occasion.

Education & Experience:

· A.S or B.S. degree in biology, life sciences or related field.

· Sufficient relevant experience will be considered.

· Ability to keep necessary records and reports and to learn quickly from oral and written instructions.

· Computer skills and ability to work with specific animalsites.

· Ability to use various electronic software used by facility.

· Ability to interact or communicate in English sufficiently the duties of this position.

Skills and SpecialRequirements:

· Valid Driver’s License in NJ

· Must be able to work outdoors in all weather and have physical ability to perform strenuous work.

The County of Bergen is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer.

It has been and will continue to be a fundamental policy of The County of Bergen not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, gender, gender identity, pregnancy, marital status, partnership status, domestic violence victim status, sexual orientation, age, national origin, alienage or citizenship status, veteran or military status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, caregiver status, unemployment status or any other characteristic prohibited by federal, state and/or local laws.

This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including hiring, promotion, demotion, compensation, training, working conditions, transfer, job assignments, benefits, layoff, and termination.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Do you have an A.S or B.S. degree in biology, life sciences or related field?

Education:

• Associate (Required)

License/Certification:

• NJ Drivers License (Required)

Work Location: In person