Baltimore, MD30+ days ago
Essential Functions: Primary Function: Foster a success-oriented, accountable environment within the Zoo; Support the guest experiences; Serve as the liaison for the Collection Managers and Curators as to daily concerns of the department; Observe animals to detect signs of illness, and report the same to the Collection Manager and Medical Staff to determine type of medication/treatment required and help in the treatment; Develop and maintain SOPs for assigned area(s); Coordinate pest control needs/activities with the Senior Animal Care Technician; Ensure that adequate and appropriate pest control practices are carried out and that all pest control records are maintained; Coordinate water quality testing and Life Support Systems equipment preventative maintenance with the Water Quality Specialist and ensure that adequate and appropriate water quality records are maintained; Inspect all exhibits and related facilities regularly for cleanliness and structural integrity; Direct or perform all keeper activities necessary to the direct maintenance of the animal collection; Inspect the care and well-being of the animals in their area; Supervise and coordinate all activities of the keeper staff; Supervise and participate in moving of animals to new quarters or in crating or uncrating animals for shipment or display; Oversee and/or assist with medical treatments, preparation of food, feeding of animals and maintenance and repair of animal quarters/exhibit; Ensure that area activities are recorded in the daily diary and other permanent records; Collaborate with Animal Department Curators, Managers and medical staff in development of diets, husbandry techniques, and area protocols; Develop action plans for projects and present them to the Collection Managers; Assist in AZA-sanctioned programs as requested; Available 24 hours/day, if necessary; Attend weekly medical meetings; Serve and support assigned area(s); Coordinate the training opportunities for volunteers, Junior keepers, and interns; Participate on the animal recapture team and maintains qualifications to use firearms on zoo grounds; Train and educate Animal Keepers; Coordinate construction projects and outside vendors and contractors while maintaining safety for animals and staff; Work with the Animal Training and Enrichment Coordinator to develop and maintain animal training and enrichment programs; Manage the particular aspects of scheduling and payroll essential to supervising staff; Responsible for acting as member of Zoo’s emergency response firearms shoot team; Perform other duties as assigned; and, Adhere to all policies and procedures of the Zoo. Experience/Training: Three years paid experience with an AZA accredited zoological institution (preferred); At least one year of supervisory experience or equivalent experience working with animals in a supervisory capacity; Valid driver’s license; and, Demonstrated supervisory ability as well as ability to lead and mentor professional staff; Traits Desirable: Ability to work with a wide variety of individuals from ethnic, cultural and economic backgrounds; Extremely well-organized; Strong leadership, communication, mentoring, time management, interpersonal and follow-up skills; Self-directed, collaborative and detail-oriented; and, Strong background in animal husbandry, training, or enrichment.