ANIMAL CARE SPECIALIST – ELEPHANT TEAM (FULL TIME)
Kansas City Zoo
6800 Zoo Drive, Kansas City, MO 64132
How to Apply: https://jobapply.page.link/bR3ve
Starting Pay: $14.75/Hour
This position must be vaccinated or agree to become vaccinated for COVID-19, to work safely with staff and the animals under the Zoo’s care.
Position Description:
The Animal Care Specialist is responsible for performing routine work assignments, involving the daily care and welfare of animals within their area. This position also performs daily maintenance of exhibit and holding areas, as well as interacts with the public to provide information related to the Zoo’s animal collection.
This position will work with the Elephant team, which is responsible for the daily husbandry of African elephants.
Position Duties & Essential Functions:
Duties
Percentage
Performs daily animal husbandry activities, including:
Preparing diets and delivering animal feedings.
Giving medications and assisting with various animal health procedures.
Observing, logging, and reporting issues concerning animal behavior, health and welfare.
Training animals for basic husbandry and enrichment behaviors.
Creating and implementing various enrichment items/strategies.
60%
Completes daily maintenance of exhibits and holding areas, including:
Cleaning exhibits, holding stalls and staff areas.
Performing minor repairs and improvements.
Reporting maintenance issues and potential safety hazards to appropriate manager.
20%
Maintains daily reports and other required records.
15%
Interacts with Zoo guests and the public, including:
Performing various animal chats and animal shows, as well as assisting with special events related to assigned area.
Engaging with daily visitors to answer questions about the Zoo and animals.
5%
*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.
Minimum Qualifications:
Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium
POSITION POSTING
Posting Date: May 17, 2022 Removal Date: Until Filled
Department: Mammals
Position Status: Full-time, Exempt
JOB SUMMARY:
The ICC Elephant Manager will be directly responsible for the daily oversight of an African elephant herd of 1.4 animals at the zoo’s International Conservation Center (ICC), located approximately 2 hours outside of Pittsburgh. This position will also assist with the zoo’s herd of 0.5 elephants as needed. This position will work with curatorial staff to ensure compliance and excellent standards of elephant care, management, and consistency between the two programs.
The Elephant Manager will also be responsible for preparing and maintaining records for all aspects of elephant management. Supervises, trains, monitors, and mentors staff as well as participates in the care of elephants to meet the long-term goals of the Pittsburgh Zoo’s (PZ) elephant programs.
QUALIFICATIONS:
· Responsible for implementing the daily husbandry, welfare, training, enrichment, and reproduction programs of elephants.
· Under the supervision of the curator develops goals and associated plans for the behavioral management of elephants
· Oversees the behavioral management of elephants through observations and interactions with the elephants, evolving a positive reinforcement-training program using progressive best practices.
· Objectively evaluates the welfare of animals within their responsibility and works with a team of keepers, curators, and veterinarians to monitor and make recommendations to enhance animal welfare.
· Responsible for creating and maintaining a goal-oriented enrichment program for elephants that promotes enhanced psychological and physical health.
· Develops and maintains protocols and elephant program to meet and exceed the AZA Standards for Elephant Management and Care and USDA standards.
· Observes and monitors the health of animals in the area, maintains open communication with the Animal Health Team, and ensures adherence to the preventative health program and medical treatments.
· Ensures safety of elephants, staff, and public in all spaces.
· Inspects and monitors food preparation and storage areas for safety and cleanliness.
· Prepares and maintains records of all aspects of animal management; records daily behavior, breeding behavior, capture and restraint, routine and non-routine medical procedures, etc.
· Documents all training and enrichment to show measurable outcomes.
· Responsible for creating an environment where animals are given the greatest opportunity to exhibit natural behaviors.
· Works with animals on a one-to-one basis such as bathing, collecting blood, cleaning feet, and other management behaviors.
· Demonstrates good leadership traits including accepting input from employees and colleagues, arbitrating disputes, and instilling a positive work environment. Supervises and monitors the work of employees involved in the care and maintenance of the elephants and ungulates, providing both oral and written instructions and evaluations.
· Excels at teaching and instructs employees in correct methods, checks and approves work, reviews, mentors, and evaluates employee performance, and establishes plans to develop employees for professional growth.
· Plans, schedules, and assigns work to staff; establishes priorities.
· Coordinates and manages animals for transfer to and from PZ and ICC.
· Facilitates research projects at the ICC; keeps current with ongoing elephant/animal research including scientific advances.
· Corresponds with other institutions and private specialists on current developments in elephant and general animal care and welfare.
· Participates in the Zoo’s conservation education programming including presenting educational talks, as well as representing the ICC in the media and other public presentations.
· Coordinates projects and repairs with the Director of the ICC.
· Other duties as assigned.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
· Experience with elephants includes mixed gender and multi-generational herd management, artificial reproduction techniques, and neonate care in a protected contact environment as well as proficiency with and knowledge of all AZA elephant management techniques. Experience with ungulates and other taxa is desirable.
· Experience leading teams of animal professionals.
· Excellent teaching, communication, and problem-solving skills.
· Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers.
EDUCATION AND PRE-REQUISITES:
· Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Biology, Zoology, Wildlife Management/Science or a related field or an Associate’s degree is preferred. High School diploma required.
· Advanced knowledge of natural history and management of elephants in a zoo setting.
· Minimum of five (5) years, increasing responsible experience in the care, training, handling, and breeding of elephants. Experience with male elephants and calves preferred.
· Three (3) years supervisory/management experience.
· Excellent elephant handling abilities, strong leadership and partnering skills, ability to operate as a member of a dynamic and diverse team, strong organizational time management, and problem-solving skills, and proven ability to successfully develop and implement a keeper training program and operant conditioning training program for the elephants.
· Completion of AZA Principles of Elephant Management Course I required. Completion of PEM II is preferred.
· Must have a current valid driver’s license with good driving record and the ability to obtain and maintain a PA driver’s license (within 6 months of hire).
· Must have the ability to foster teamwork within and across teams.
· Must have astute attention to detail.
· Must provide documentation of current, negative TB test and Covid-19 full vaccination record.
· Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, etc.).
· Manual dexterity and balance is required to operate machinery and equipment. Must be physically able to exert up to ten pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects. Work involves standing, walking, bending, reaching, crawling, crouching, etc. for periods of time. Must be able to lift and/or carry weights of fifty to seventy pounds. Position may require occasional off-site driving. Must be able to work in various weather conditions, as well as evenings and holidays when required.
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume to:
HR@pittsburghzoo.org
One Wild Place
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
www.pittsburghzoo.org
Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer
Associate Director of Animal Care
Utah’s Hogle Zoo
How to apply: https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=8466ea70-0d62-4447-aa78-ae0276dc27bc&ccId=19000101_000001&type=MP&lang=en_US
Position posting:
WHY WORK AT UTAH’S HOGLE ZOO?
Are you an animal care professional looking to lead a crew of extremely talented and passionate animal devotees? Are you looking for a medium size zoo with a family like atmosphere? Then Utah’s Hogle Zoo may be the place for you. We are looking for people who want to grow with us as we create a rich culture of creative, collaborative, passionate animal care professionals.
Be a part of the Zoo as we build our newest exhibit, Wild Utah! Slated to open in 2023, the exhibit will focus on native Utah species. Join us as we update our master plan with a focus on the renovation of our Small Animal Building, our Elephant Experience, and our Great Ape facilities. Make your contribution to a rich tradition of elevated behavior husbandry, guest engagement, professional development, and top animal welfare.
At Utah’s Hogle Zoo we look for employees who are passionate about conservation, who approach their daily work with a can-do attitude, who are resourceful, who communicate respectfully with everyone, and who are ready to work hard to support the zoo towards our mission of Creating Champions for Wildlife. If all of this sounds exciting to you, then come and excel with us at Utah’s Hogle Zoo!
For over 90 years, Utah’s Hogle Zoo has been a loved and trusted part of the community. Located within Salt Lake City proper, the Zoo is nestled in the foothills of the Wasatch Mountain range at the mouth of Emigration Canyon. The Zoo spans over 42 acres and is home to a diverse collection of animals. Being only minutes from both a vibrant downtown and national wilderness area, Salt Lake City is a dream for cultural aficionados and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This city has it all from professional sports teams, theater, cultural attractions, universities, nightlife, and many green spaces. From mountain ranges to deserts, Utah is home to five National and 45 State parks. Few places have so much, so close to where you live and work, but we pull it off with style and ease at Utah’s Hogle Zoo.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Associate Director(s) of Animal Care (ADAC) are responsible for the management of the Zoo’s animals. This position collaborates with the Director of Animal Care to develop short-term and long-range animal plans in support of the organization’s mission. The ADAC ensures the sustainability of the Zoo’s animal populations and manages staff in various related activities. The ADAC advances zoo mission through participation in conservation, welfare programs and AZA programs on behalf of Utah’s Hogle Zoo. This position currently oversees the programs and Animal Care Supervisors in the Pachyderm, Rocky Shores, and Primate areas.
REPORTING RELATIONSHIP
Reports directly to the Director of Animal Care and serves on the Zoo’s leadership team.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Oversees safe, proper and humane programs and protocols for all aspects of the animal collection including: sanitation, health, nutrition, reproduction, behavior, behavioral husbandry, exhibits, holding facilities, and associated service areas.
2. Assists in developing a records system that documents activities and events with the animal collection and department.
3. Assists in the preparation of the department’s annual operating and capital budget review and submission; administers and monitors budgets.
4. Leads the development and review of policies concerning resident animal planning and management.
5. Plans and coordinates animal acquisitions and deaccessions of the assigned collection in collaboration with the Animal Care Supervisor(s).
6. Directs animal loans, trades, sales, and purchases according to the Zoo’s animal plan.
7. Oversees the coordination of animal shipments into and out of Utah’s Hogle Zoo.
8. Assures that the operations of the Animal Care Department comply with professional standards and state, federal and international governmental regulations.
9. Collaborates with the veterinary staff in the medical care of the collection.
10. Ensures compliance with USDA and USFWS.
11. Assists in the design and development of new animal exhibits and holding facilities.
12. Recruits and directly supervises Animal Care Supervisors and oversees all animal care staff, interns and volunteers.
13. Assists in the development of the Zoo’s animal welfare and behavioral enrichment programs.
14. Actively participates in AZA animal programs and related organizations.
15. Represents the department and Utah’s Hogle Zoo at professional meetings, conferences, or in the media.
16. Participates in a professional network (e.g.,Association of Zoos and Aquariums, IUCN, etc.).
17. Commitment to the zoo’s mission and conservation efforts.
18. Ability to work over 40 hours a week as needed and work varied hours and schedules.
19. Performs other duties as assigned.
20. Maintains strict confidentiality.
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE
Education and Experience
Must possess a degree in zoological or biological science or a combined equivalent of education and experience.
Five (5) years of experience in a curatorial and/or supervisory capacity managing animals and animal care staff in an AZA facility. A demonstrated interest in the management of a diverse collection of animal species and proven expertise in the management of large carnivores, primates and/or ungulates.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
This list contains knowledge, skills, and abilities that are typically associated with the job. It is not all-inclusive and may vary from position to position:
Required technical skills include the knowledge and ability of:
Required mathematical skills include working knowledge of:
Must possess excellent communications skills:
Must have the ability to:
The incumbent must always demonstrate judgment, high integrity, and personal values consistent with the values of the Hogle Zoo.
Utah’s Hogle Zoo is a drug free workplace. All employees are subject random drug testing.
Requires a valid driver’s license.
Work Environment
Incumbent performs in an outdoor environment, exposure to the seasonal elements, dust, and allergens for prolonged periods of time. Tasks require a variety of physical activities, which generally involve muscular strain. Eye, hand, finger dexterity required to perform essential functions. Must be able to listen and respond to a handheld radio. Ability to stoop, bend, twist, turn, climb, jump, run when necessary, and move quickly to avoid dangerous situations. Must be able to walk on wet and uneven surfaces. Must be able to lift 50 lbs. unassisted and 75 lbs. with assistance. Must be able to push and pull up to 53 lbs. A valid driver’s license is required. Provide a negative TB test prior to hire date and maintain TB testing through course of employment.
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS AT THE ZOO
For more information regarding the position and/or salary, please contact Human Resources at: 801-584-4510.
Elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV) continues to impact Asian elephants and now, increasingly, African elephants, in human care. The extent of its impact on the wild populations is just starting to be elucidated.
The North American EEHV Advisory Group is planning a three-day virtual EEHV Symposium January 25-27, 2022, from 5:00am to 8:00am PST (1:00pm to 4:00pm GMT). Although we are disappointed that we cannot meet with all our colleagues in person, we are happy to facilitate this meeting to gather everyone together and exchange ideas on how to improve outcomes for elephant populations impacted by EEHV.
We look forward to including researchers, veterinarians, and elephant husbandry colleagues from across the world to participate in what we hope will be a global symposium to present case reports, research findings, vaccine research, treatments, and advisory/working group updates. We will also be organizing regional breakout sessions as well as panel discussions on treatment and husbandry/training.
Abstracts submissions are welcome on any topic pertaining to EEHV and you are especially encouraged to share your new information on EEHV research, clinical management, training, institutional support, and conservation connections. Abstracts are due by December 27, 2021, to Meredith Wagoner (meredithwagoner1@yahoo.com). Please follow the example abstract format.
Workshop registration will be open soon and further information will follow. For more information, visit www.eehvinfo.org.
Fort Worth Zoo, 1989 Colonial Pkwy, Fort Worth, Texas, United States of America Req #425
Date Posted: Tuesday, September 28, 2021
To apply, visit: https://us60.dayforcehcm.com/CandidatePortal/en-US/fwzoo/Posting/View/701
Summary:
The responsibility of this position is to maintain and care for elephants and other assigned species; to assist veterinary staff as needed; and to perform a variety of activities relative to the assigned area of responsibility.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
• Feed and water animals in and around existing quarters; clean, sanitize, maintain and repair animal quarters as required; shovel, rake, hose, sweep, dust and mop floors
• Prepare diets for animals; clean and maintain work area and food storage containers
• Maintain adequate records on daily activities; observe animal behavior for signs of illness, weight loss/gain or injury; report any signs of illness or injury
• Assist veterinarians in minor operations or related activity, administer prescribed medications, submit fecal samples and other duties as needed
• Assist in the training of assigned animals; guide animals through daily routines according to established training schedules and guidelines
• Carry out animal diet directives from Nutritional Services Dept; clean and maintain food storage containers
• Participate in the zoo-wide behavioral management program by implementing approved animal training and enrichment projects
• Participate in and implement approved research projects
• Respond to public inquiries in a courteous manner; resolve complaints in an efficient and timely manner; Present keeper talks to park visitors and media as required
• Assist in directing the proper restraint, crating, moving and uncrating of animals
• Properly maintain exhibits, animal facilities, equipment and life support systems (as apply) as trained for specific positions
• Understand and implement operant conditioning as it relates to the daily management of species under his/her care.
Qualifications:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Must have one year of zoo keeping experience, elephant zoo keeping experience preferred
• Valid driver license with acceptable motor vehicle record to maintain zoo standards of insurability
• Proof of negative tuberculosis (TB) screening within previous six months prior to placement and annually thereafter
Must possess ability to:
• Work independently in the absence of immediate supervision
• Understand and follow oral and written instructions
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships
• Maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities
Education and/or Experience:
• High School diploma or equivalent
• Bachelors degree in wildlife management, zoology, animal behavior, biology, ecology, psychology or related field preferred
• Specialized training in zoology or a related field desirable but not required
Physical Demands:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear. The employee must regularly lift and/or or move up to 75 pounds.
Work Environment:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
• Team oriented environment
• Ability to work irregular hours (holidays and weekends)
• Exposure to a variety of domestic and wild or potentially dangerous animals; animal odors and animal body fluids
• Exposure to all types of inclement weather conditions
• Exposure to chemicals (cleaning, water chemicals, additives, etc.)
• Ability to work special events and functions as required
Disclaimer
The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as a complete inventory of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position.
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor.
Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities. To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Continued employment remains on an at-will basis.
Benefits
This is a full-time position and offers the following benefits:
• Medical and Prescription Drug (Employee Coverage 90% Employer Paid, Dependent Coverage 55% Employer Paid)
• Vision
• Dental
• Basic Life AD&D (1 x Annual Salary up to $150,000 – 100% Employer Paid)
• Short Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
• Long Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
• Supplemental Life
• Flexible Spending Account
• 401k
• Paid Time Off (Accrual Equivalent to 5 Weeks Per Year)
• PTO Rollover
• PTO Sell Back
• Free Zoo Membership
• Free Guest Passes
• Discounts on Food, Merchandise, Attractions, Admission and Program
– Three years paid experience as a keeper in a AZA accredited institution, or in an institution with equivalent standards, and at least two years of verifiable college course work (60 semester hours) OR
– Four years paid experience as a keeper in an AZA accredited institution, or in an institution with equivalent standards, and at least one year of verifiable college course work (30 semester hours) OR
– Five years paid experience as a keeper in an AZA accredited institution, or in an institution with equivalent standards.
– Three years paid experience as a keeper in a AZA accredited institution, or in an institution with equivalent standards, and at least two years of verifiable college course work (60 semester hours) or
– Four years paid experience as a keeper in an AZA accredited institution, or in an institution with equivalent standards, and at least one year of verifiable college course work (30 semester hours) or
©Disney is an equal opportunity employer. Drawing Creativity from Diversity.
Benefits and Perks: Disney offers a rewards package to help you live your best life. This includes health and savings benefits, educational opportunities and special extras that only Disney can provide. Learn more about our benefits and perks at https://jobs.disneycareers.com/benefits
Please go to: www.disneycareers.com and Apply to Req# 844285BR.
Walt Disney World Company P.O. Box 10,000 Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Have you HERD? The Elephant Managers Association (EMA) is holding its first International Merchandise Competition. We have TONS of merchandise we would like to roll out to members... but we need a few great designs. All designs are due on September 25. Winners will be featured in one of our EMA publications and will receive a prize.
Full details about the competition and a form to apply can be found here: click to download.
Zoological Manager - Elephants
Disney's Animal Kingdom
To view full posting and to apply, visit: https://jobs.disneycareers.com/job/lake-buena-vista/zoological-mgr-elephants/391/19655380
Job Summary:
Disney’s Animal Kingdom is seeking candidates for Zoological Manager role at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This person will be on a multi-manager team and report to the Animal Operations Manager of the Elephant and Ituri teams. The Zoological Manager team manages the area’s husbandry program, daily maintenance, development of keeper routines and scheduling, animal enrichment, behavior modification, exhibit design, staff selection, staff development, and assists with animal acquisition and deacquisition. The collection focus of this manager would be a mixed sex, multi-generational, breeding herd of African Elephants but may also include a variety of hoofed stock, rhinos, hippos, Nile crocodiles and large birds.
Responsibilities:
Basic Qualifications:
Preferred Qualifications:
Required Education:
Preferred Education:
Congratulations to our newly elected and re-elected board members! Ellen Wiedner, Vernon Presley, and Cecil Jackson, Jr. will all serve two-year terms, and they will join Rob Conachie, Adam Felts, Shawn Finnell, and Tripp Gorman on the Board of Directors. It was an extremely close race; kudos to all our nominees! Thanks to all who voted—a successful election is vital to maintaining the amazing work done by the EMA.
October 11-15, 2021
Early this year the Elephant Managers Association announced we will replicate our efforts and host a virtual conference again this year, on October 11-15, 2021. We will host the EMA 2021 virtual conference via GotoMeeting conference platform. EMA members will be sent a link and password allowing members to access this virtual conference all week long. This conference will be free to all EMA members.
EMA is now accepting papers for our virtual conference. To submit your paper, please fill out the Call for Papers form. All forms and abstracts are due September 1, 2021. The Call for Papers committee will be selecting papers that cover all topics in elephant management from traditional power point presentations to live feeds on training or enrichment items from a facility. All presentations will be 15 minutes long with a 5-minute question-and-answer period. All presenters must have good internet capability. Presenters will be selected and notified by September 14, 2021. Once selected as a presenter, the Call for Papers committee will inquire on your preferred method of how you wish to send your presentation.
EMA President Vernon Presley stated, “Another year of uncertainty brought us to the conclusion of hosting a virtual conference again. Last year we learned a lot as virtual hosts, and we received a lot of positive feedback. We hope to bring you another great conference for all our members around the world. Don’t miss your chance to join us as we discover new ideas together.”
For more information, contact EMAboard@elephantmanagers.com.
The Elephant Managers Association (EMA) is an international, 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization.
All rights reserved. © 2023 Elephant Managers Association.
1513 Cambridge Street, Houston TX 77030
