Friday, June 30, 2017

Cheetah Team Animal Keeper Internship



Cheetah Team Animal Keeper Internship

This internship provides the opportunity for the selectee to gain experience in the zoo keeping field by participating in daily animal keeper activities including animal husbandry, nutrition, enrichment and training, and visitor education. The SCBI Cheetah Team is seeking an applicant for consideration to serve as an intern for the 2017 fall/winter session.

Duties and responsibilities:
  • Learn alongside professional animal care staff basic animal husbandry of carnivores including cleaning enclosures, preparing food and enrichment activities, and assisting with environmental enhancements..
  • Learn formal and informal interpretive educational programs for guests.
  • Learn how to develop and implement animal enrichment programs.
  • Learn and follow animal/keeper safety guidelines, operations, and polices.
  • Learn USDA and AZA guidelines, NZP directives, procedures and protocols and other related literature.
  • Have the opportunity to develop an independent training, enrichment, or research project with guidance from cheetah team staff.
  • Present a short summary to SCBI Department of Animal Programs staff.


Qualifications:
  • Good physical condition; able to lift and carry a minimum of 50 lbs.
  • Willingness to be available outside normal business hours including weekends and holidays.
  • Capable of participating outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Good written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to be an effective team member, often times with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
  • Ability to remain calm and think rationally under pressure.
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • Ability to be flexible when changes occur.
  • Intern must have appropriate footwear. Appropriate outerwear is required for all the weather conditions: rain, snow, wind, hail, etc.
  • Experience and Qualities Preferred:
  • Previous internships within the animal care field.
  • Interest in learning about carnivore management with aspirations to advance in the wildlife or zoo field.
  • Experience with exotic carnivores or wildlife animal care.
  • Experience in a zoo, wildlife conservation, or similar setting.


Stipend:
This is an unpaid internship. Special consideration will be given to applicants who receive college credit for internship. Intern is responsible for obtaining necessary approvals from their university. Intern will be responsible for all transportation costs and personal health insurance.

Housing:
Intern will be provided on-site government housing (dormitory, non-smoking, no pets and additional codes of conduct apply) at the Front Royal, Virginia, campus.


To apply and learn more click HERE



Peter Dickinson
Independent International Zoo Consultant
      

Veterinary Nurse


Veterinary Nurse
(Full-Time / Permanent)
London Zoo 


The Zoological Society of London (ZSL), a charity founded in 1826, is a world-renowned centre of excellence for conservation science and applied conservation. ZSL’s mission is to promote and achieve the worldwide conservation of animals and their habitats. This is realised by carrying out field conservation and research in over 50 countries across the globe and through education and awareness-raising at our two zoos, ZSL London Zoo and ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, inspiring people to take conservation action.

Role Profile:

ZSL is looking to recruit a veterinary nurse to assist in all aspects of animal healthcare and welfare, veterinary treatment, nutrition, disease surveillance and preventive medicine of all London Zoo (LZ) animals, including those being transported and in quarantine.

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Work closely with veterinary, curatorial and animal management teams at LZ in carrying out these duties.
  • Assist with stocks and readiness of equipment; drugs and disposables; records; the preventive medicine programme; and the archive of clinical samples.
  • Undertake a proportionate share of the on-call duties for emergencies, weekends and at other times as arranged by the SVN.
  • Assist with the teaching of students at all levels, specifically for the MSc courses, the Tracking Rotations, EMS students, any VN Work Experience and the VN Internship.
  • Maintaining strict bio-security and cleanliness of the Veterinary Department at all times.
  • Assist in continuing and developing a departmental portfolio of research interests that supports the strategic mission of ZSL and the Veterinary Department.
  • To collaborate with colleagues to develop the skills and experience of the Veterinary Department and other ZSL staff.
  • Provide veterinary input to, and participate in, as appropriate, Conservation Programme and Institute of Zoology projects.
  • To report and publish appropriate clinical and research material in journals and text books.


Person Specification:

  • Registered Veterinary Nurse.
  • Proven and varied veterinary nursing experience essential (some with zoo/wild animal species preferred).
  • Clear evidence, through long-term affiliations and memberships, of a commitment to both conservation and animal welfare.
  • Some experience in training of veterinary techniques preferred.


To apply for this job:
Applicants will need to upload their CV and covering letter (detailing relevant experience and skills, stating why they want the position and including details of availability) and can do this by clicking the "Apply for this job online" button which can be found HERE

If you have any queries regarding this position or when applying through the system please contact human resources at hr@zsl.org


Closing date for applications: Midnight Sunday 16th July 2017



Peter Dickinson
Independent International Zoo Consultant
      

Zoo Manager



Zoo Manager
Belfast Zoological Gardens
Northern Ireland


Main purpose of job

  • To be responsible to the assistant director of city and neighbourhood services for the general management of the Zoological Gardens and other facilities including management of these premises and ensuring the participation of Belfast Zoo activities required by regulation and legislation concerning zoo management.
  • To regularly review zoo strategies and align them with annual business plan objectives and consequential expenditure estimates.
  • To manage the facilities in accordance with the principles of performance management and the council’s policies concerning a total quality approach so as to ensure that the required standards of service quality are maintained.
  • To monitor and manage such budgets as are allocated for the discharge of the unit’s functions in accordance with the council’s policies, financial regulations and standing orders, to ensure that the unit’s objectives are met within the budget.
  • To contribute to the corporate management of the department and council by participation in the department’s management team and through close working contact with senior officers, project teams and consultative groups as necessary.
  • To keep under review new developments in all fields relevant to the unit’s responsibilities and to make recommendations to relevant senior officers.
  • To ensure accurate and timely production of all information required for council or committee reports, official returns and for performance measurement. 
  • To ensure the necessary high standards of service delivery, through the motivation and management of staff, in an efficient and effective manner.

 Closing date for applications is: 26th Jul 2017

Apply for this job:
You can request an application form, details about the job and terms and conditions of employment from:

Job Applications, The Cecil Ward Building, 4-10 Linenhall Street, Belfast, BT2 8BP; or 
download an application pack HERE or email your name and address internally to jobs or externally to jobs@belfastcity.gov.uk; or phone our Jobline on 028 9027 0640 (office hours only).

Return your form to Human Resources (or return via email) before 4pm on Wednesday, 26 July 2017.Information can be provided in alternative formats on request.




Peter Dickinson
Independent International Zoo Consultant
      

Deputy Team Leader- Herpetology




Deputy Team Leader- Herpetology 
(Full-Time / Permanent)
ZSL - London Zoo


The mission of the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), a charity founded in 1826, is to promote and achieve the worldwide conservation of animals and their habitats. This is realised by carrying out field conservation and research in over 50 countries across the globe and through education, conservation and awareness-raising at our two zoos, ZSL London Zoo and ZSL Whipsnade Zoo.

Role Profile:

An exciting opportunity has arisen at ZSL London Zoo for herpetology deputy team leader. The role will involve the management of a team responsible for the day to day husbandry of a large and diverse collection of reptiles and amphibians, focusing on animal welfare, bio-security, record keeping and ensuring that exhibits are maintained to the highest standards.

Main duties and responsibilities:

  • Assist team leader in managing, mentoring and training staff.
  • In consultation with other stakeholders, write and implement training processes and protocols, best practice guidelines and procedures for health and safety and animal husbandry purposes.
  • Assist team leader in ensuring that the relevant systems (ZIMS etc.) are kept up to date and accurate.
  • Work on section to contribute to husbandry of animals on section.
  • Quality control and problem solve day to day work on section with appropriate communication and consultation with team leader.


Person specification:

  • Applicants should have a higher education qualification in a relevant subject, or equivalent experience.
  • Candidates should have experience in managing teams and projects.
  • An evidence based approach to animal keeping with excellent attention to detail is required. Candidates must understand, and have a practical ability to implement, up to date herpetological husbandry practices and a proven capability for aesthetically appealing enclosure construction.
  • Applicants should be able to take the initiative to tackle and prevent problems as well as make improvements to facilities and protocols.
  • Applicants should understand current challenges to herpetological conservation and the specific conservation roles zoos can fulfil.
  • Good communication skills and experience of dealing with the public is essential, together with the ability to work effectively within a team.
  • Experience with behavioural management and handling of a range of herpetological species, including potentially dangerous taxa, is important.
  • A robust understanding of water quality monitoring and management is essential.
  • Experience of and interest in research, scientific writing and peer-review publication would be beneficial.


Please note: Hours are an annual average of 37.5 per week, worked within a roster which includes one in two weekends.

Closing date for applications is: 16th Jul 2017

To apply for this job:
Applicants will need to upload their CV and covering letter (detailing relevant experience and skills, stating why they want the position and including details of availability) and can do this by clicking the "Apply for this job online" button HERE

If you have any queries regarding these positions or when applying through the system please contact human resources at hr@zsl.org




Peter Dickinson
Independent International Zoo Consultant
      

Veterinarian



Veterinarian

Loro Parque / Loro Parque Fundación & Poema del Mar

Are you Enthusiastic, Energetic, Outgoing and ready to be part of an adventure where everyone is a part of an unforgettable journey to the wonders of our unique islands? If you are, we invite you to submit your applications for the post of:
Veterinarian

Position Summary:  A great opportunity exists for an ambitious, team player and responsible veterinarian to join our expanding team at Loro Parque / Loro Parque Fundación and the brand new Oceanarium Poema del Mar.  The position if for an experience veterinarian with special focus on all aspects of zoological medicine in one of the largest zoological collection in the world. The collection is divided in four different locations, which requires travelling between collections.

Summary of position responsibilities:
•        Participate in the daily activities of the medical service of the park, including primary case responsibility and regular case rounds with Loro Parque / Loro Parque Fundación & Poema del Mar staff.
•        Report directly to the Director of the Veterinary & Laboratory Services, to establish and maintain protocols for the proper husbandry and care of the animals in different locations.
•        Assist in determining research priorities and become involved as necessary in any research projects supported by the facility.
•        Determine medication regimes, treatment methods, feeding, and other protocols as necessary and desirable for optimum animal welfare and husbandry.
•        Administer supplements, medications and treatment protocols.
•        Conduct frequent observations of animals and report any abnormalities, health or welfare issues, or change of behavior.
•        Maintain standard record keeping related to animal health and welfare, animal behavior, diagnostic interventions, treatment protocols, and other departmental procedural documents. Work with department management and staff to ensure the accuracy, clarity, and availability of all documents.
•        Accommodate and assist with regular audits and inspections by local and international authorities as required.
•        Plan/participate in research and conservation programs related to the goals of the Loro Parque Fundación.
•        Assist in preparing monthly reports for distribution to all relevant managers.
•        Train and update husbandry staff in areas of basic medical care to ensure staff comprehension in cases of care for minor incidents.
•        Provide emergency care for the animals in the different collections (Loro Parque / Loro Parque Fundación & Poema del Mar).
•        Provide mentorship, coaching, instruction, assistance, and supervision to veterinary students, work-experience students, and assigned interns.

Essential skills and experience:
•        Qualified veterinarian licensed to practice in the Canary Islands, Spain. This will require veterinary licensure in the European Union.
•        Minimum of 3 years’ experience related to veterinary medicine of exotic & zoo species, with a special focus on aquatic medicine (fish and marine mammals).
•        Good understanding and experience of animal behavior, husbandry, and welfare.
•        Availability and ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
•        Ability to organize workload and prioritize tasks.
•        Ability to communicate with, motivate, and work alongside other staff to build an effective team.
•        Ability to develop and motivate a team of volunteers and/or student intern
•        Ability to communicate effectively to a variety of audiences in both verbal and written forms.
•        Ability to provide and support a vision and direction for the welfare of zoo animals (predominantly marine mammals and fish).

Loro Parque / Loro Parque Fundación & Poema del Mar affords an excellent opportunity for people to gain experience in our exciting tourism industry. This facility offers a chance for the right individual to work in one of leading zoological collection worldwide. We are offering a competitive compensation, which includes 30 working days of vacation.  Remuneration will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

To express your interest in this role, please submit a curriculum vitae, references, and cover letter by August 2017 to the following address:
Chief Human Resources Officer





Peter Dickinson
Independent International Zoo Consultant
      

Thursday, June 29, 2017

Qualified Animal Keeper, Africa



Qualified Animal Keeper, Africa
(Full-Time / 12 Months Maternity Cover Contract)
ZSL - Whipsnade Zoo ZSL

The Zoological Society of London (ZSL), a charity founded in 1826, is a world-renowned centre of excellence for conservation science and applied conservation. ZSL’s mission is to promote and achieve the worldwide conservation of animals and their habitats. This is realised by carrying out field conservation and research in over 50 countries across the globe and through education and awareness-raising at our two zoos, ZSL London Zoo and ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, inspiring people to take conservation action.

Role Profile:

An opening has arisen for a qualified animal keeper on our Africa (large and small ungulates) section at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo.

The Africa section (large and small Ungulates) comprises a range of African large hoof-stock ranging from Grevy's zebras to both species of hippos, reticulated giraffes, white rhinos and a number of antelope species; African lions and cheetahs; and chimpanzees with a small number of other primate species. Applicants are expected to have a real interest in these taxa and will, ideally, have experience of working with some of them.

Ideally the candidate will be a qualified keeper and have prior experience of working with large and small Ungulates but, if not, have a genuine interest in working with these species. This position will also assist the team leader and other senior keepers in all aspects of their work but primarily the care of the animals ensuring high standards of animal welfare, animal husbandry and keep daily checks and records of animals within the section.

Working hours are 37.5 per week, worked within a roster which includes regular weekends so flexibility regarding hours is crucial. Applicants must have a passion for working with a variety of animals within a zoo environment. Good communication skills and experience of dealing with the public is essential, together with the ability to work effectively within a team.

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Observing the behaviour, health and security of animals and reporting any problems to the team leader or senior staff.
  • Ensuring that conditions for animals are suitable and reporting any problems, including defects or repairs required to enclosures, to the senior staff on section and relevant departments required.
  • Assisting with the preparation of approved diets and carrying out the correct feeding procedures.
  • Cleaning and maintaining exhibits and other designated areas.
  • Ensuring that safety and emergency procedures are followed at all times.
  • Assisting with the movement and/or training of animals and/or animal demonstrations
  • Supporting in the training and mentoring of less experienced staff.
  • Maintaining courteous and helpful relations with visitors and media.
  • Supporting broader ZSL lead events such as late evenings and specialist functions.

Person Specification:

The successful candidate will:

  • A good level of skill and knowledge together with a proven work record with large ungulates and hoof-stock.
  • Experience with large carnivores would also be an advantage.
  • Have strong attention to detail and the ability to clearly convey instruction.
  • Have an understanding of mammal breeding and good familiarity with external zoo associations such as BIAZA and EAZA.
  • Able to use Microsoft software including Outlook, Excel and Word.
  • Have a qualification in a relevant field at university level and/or diploma in the DZMAA Keeper’s course or equivalent work experience.
  • Be reliable and have good time-keeping and attendance record and able to demonstrate leadership and professionalism.
  • A full driving license is also required.


Please note: This is a full-time, permanent position based at Whipsnade Zoo. Flexible working is required for this position which will include working alternate weekends and bank holidays. Applicant must also be presentable, flexible in their approach and totally reliable.

To apply for this job:
Applicants will need to upload their CV and covering letter (detailing relevant experience and skills, stating why they want the position and including details of availability) and can do this by clicking here

If you have any queries regarding these positions or when applying through the system please contact Human Resources at hr@zsl.org.


Closing date for applications: Midnight Sunday 9th July 2017.



Peter Dickinson
Independent International Zoo Consultant