ANIMAL
CARE DIRECTOR
Job
Description:
This senior level position works under the supervision of the President/CEO to
oversee the development and implementation of animal operation strategies that
achieve excellence in all animal operations including animal husbandry, animal
collection-based conservation and research, and animal registration
procedures. Must embrace the mission, goals, and objectives of Wilstem
and work with all departments to fulfill them. Applicants must have good
decision-making skills, remain calm under pressure, respond to emergencies,
take control of situations, and communicate with all levels of the
organization. Must be enthusiastic and interact with guests in a positive
manner to provide a memorable and educational experience.
Applicant
Requirements:
Applicants must have a minimum of 5 years of progressive animal husbandry
experience with a variety of exotic animals. A minimum of 2 years
management and supervisory experience is strongly preferred. Prior
experience at an AZA or ZAA accredited facility is preferred. A degree in
biology, zoology, or animal related field is preferred. Must be
proficient with Microsoft Office. Must have a working knowledge of
established principles and practices of exotic and domestic wildlife
exhibition, experience in animal immobilization, including chemical
administration. Applicant must be available to work all necessary hours,
including weekends, holidays, special events, and will be on call in the event
of an emergency. Applicant must pass physical, drug test, and background
checks.
Duties
and Responsibilities:
Maintains a close connection with and working knowledge of the animal collection.
Develops animal husbandry policies and programs for all animals and ensures
proper daily care and welfare in compliance with federal, state, and local laws
and in a manner consistent with AZA or ZAA accreditation standards and USDA
regulations. Directs the facilities programs for animal acquisition and
disposition, husbandry, exhibition, record keeping, behavior management, and
research and conservation. Works in cooperation with the head
veterinarian to coordinate preventative, routine, and emergency health care to
the animal collection. Directs the implementation of animal behavioral
training and enrichment programs. Ensures compliance to applicable AZA,
ZAA, USDA, DEA, OSHA, local state, and federal laws. Actively
participates in TAGs and other AZA or ZAA programs. Participates in
planning and design of new exhibits and renovation of existing exhibits to
ensure animals are presented in a manner reflecting modern practices.
Ensure exhibit design and animal’s functional welfare requirements are balanced
with aesthetic and educational considerations. Coordinates safety
training for keeper staff and works in cooperation with all departments to
ensure the safety of the facility for the animals, staff, and visiting
public. Supervises and trains the keeper staff responsible for all
aspects of animal care including but not limited to cleaning, feeding,
watering, record keeping, and maintain facilities.
Facilitates
the work of the animal keepers by ensuring that they have the necessary tools,
equipment, and supplies. Cooperates with other department heads and
facility management to ensure the facility runs harmoniously. Carries out
supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the facility policies,
applicable laws, and relevant labor laws. Plans, assigns, and directs
work by evaluating performance, counsel employees, disciplines employees,
addresses complaints, and resolves problems. Demonstrates a commitment to
maintaining a work environment free from discrimination, harassment and
supports the facilities commitment to equal opportunities. Must be
prepared to travel for meetings, animal transports, and continuing
education. Performs other duties as required and assigned. Physical
requirements include frequent walking and standing, frequent lifting and
carrying up to 50 lbs., reaching, bending, kneeling, twisting, and
climbing. Operation of a variety of equipment, vehicles, and power tools
is required.
Send resumes
and salary requirements to
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