Address
Form of workANIMAL CARE - AMBASSADOR ANIMALS TEAM (SEASONAL)
DEPARTMENT
Animal Care
CLASSIFICATION
Non-Exempt
REPORTS TO
Animal Care Manager
DIRECT REPORTS
N/A
STARTING PAY
$14.25/Hour
POSITION DESCRIPTION:
Under direction, an Animal Care Seasonal performs routine work assignments involving the care of Zoo & Aquarium animals, as well as maintenance of exhibits, enclosures, service and animal holding areas. This position performs related work, as required.
This position will work with the Ambassador Animals Team, which is responsible for the daily husbandry and training of the Zoo’s ambassador animal collection, as well as live performances for audiences of all sizes. The Ambassador Animals Team consists of two ambassador animal buildings and one free-flight bird area, which includes a wide range of animals, including: pigeons, macaws, Harris's hawk, turkey vulture, African crested porcupine, red river hog, African serval, southern ground hornbill, guinea fowl, red-tailed hawk, African grey parrot, Amazon parrots, hedgehog, chinchilla, boa constrictor, rainbow boa, green iguana, dart frogs, and Madagascar hissing cockroaches.
This is an 8-month seasonal position, working 40 hours per week, starting in early 2024. Seasonal start and end dates may vary based upon individual availability and team needs.
POSITION DUTIES & ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Duties
Percentage
Assists with the daily care of assigned team’s animal collection, including:
- Preparing diets.
- Observing, logging, and reporting issues concerning animal behavior, health, and welfare.
- Assisting in training animals for basic husbandry and enrichment behaviors.
- Aiding with animal health procedures, under supervision.
- Assisting with the creation of various enrichment items/strategies.
45%
Assists with daily maintenance of exhibits and holding areas, including:
- Cleaning exhibits, holding stalls and Animal Care areas.
- Performing minor repairs and improvements of exhibits, under supervision.
- Reporting maintenance issues and potential safety hazards to appropriate manager.
45%
Interacts with Zoo & Aquarium guests and the public, including:
- Performing or assisting with various animal chats and animal shows.
- Engaging with daily visitors to answer questions about the Zoo & Aquarium and animals.
10%
*This position may at times be requested to perform other duties or special projects as assigned, which are in the best interest of the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. Additionally, specific duties and percentages may vary slightly between each Animal Care Team.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- EDUCATION & FORMAL TRAINING:
- Associate’s degree or Bachelor’s Degree, or working towards degree in biology, animal science, zoology or related field preferred.
- High school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) certificate accepted with prior experience in a similar position.
- EXPERIENCE:
- Knowledge of animal behavior and procedures used for the proper care of handling exotic and domestic animals.
- Strong observation skills, in order to recognize and evaluate conditions of animal health, diets and behavior.
- Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions, including procedures for care and maintenance of animals, exhibit, service and holding areas.
- Strong verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills.
- OTHER MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
- Must have valid driver’s license.
- Must have or be able to obtain negative TB test.
- Must be able to lift 50 pounds and have sufficient mobility to ensure a safe work environment.
- Must be able to stand for extended periods of time.
- Must be able to tolerate stress and make immediate decisions concerning the safety of animals, staff or the public.
- Must be willing to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays and evening hours, in all weather extremes.
- Must pass a background and drug screening.
