Elephant Keeper – Trail of the Elephants
Melbourne Zoo
· Successful and growing Asian Elephant management and breeding program
· Committed Direct/Free contact program for cows and calves
· Indirect/Restricted contact program for bull management and training
· Endorsed and supported by both staff and management
Zoos Victoria is undergoing a major redevelopment and transition into a Zoo-Based
Conservation Organisation. Along with Werribee Open Range Zoo and Healesville
Sanctuary, Melbourne Zoo is committed to short-range and long- term strategic action
on behalf of our staff, conservation, visitors, financial sustainability and the animals.
Life Sciences is working hard to promote and preserve animal welfare, animal health,
and the sustainability of our living collections.
With the recent landmark birth of our first calf and the second youngster due in August
2010, we are making vital contributions to the regional breeding program. An
experienced and qualified Elephant Keeper has an opportunity to join this thriving
department at this unique and exciting time, and have the chance to work with cows,
calves and a breeding bull.
This is a key position for the continuing development and evolution of Zoos Victoria’s
elephant program with the target of providing best practice animal care in a holistic
environment. Candidates will require a minimum of five years of direct contact (free
contact) elephant experience. Candidates will also require a high level of competency
in handling elephants, and an understanding of traditional and progressive training
techniques.
Candidates are highly motivated, energetic and cooperative team members, with
strong verbal and written communication skills. It is essential to possess well
developed interpersonal and presentation skills, demonstrated experience in imparting
messages and the ability to engage the general public. They must have proven
experience with elephant introductions, dynamic herd relationships, variable age
structure, training for medical behaviours, vigorous animal exercise management and
maintaining a challenging enrichment program. Experience in semen collection,
artificial insemination conditioning, and birth/calf management is highly desirable.
As part of the Melbourne Zoo Animal Husbandry Team, you will be required to work a
roster across a 7-day week, including weekends and public holidays, be capable of
completing highly physical work on a daily basis, and hold a valid Australian driver’s
license.
To view the position description and to apply, please visit our website at
www.zoo.org.au/hr All applications to include a maximum two page cover letter along
with a CV via our recruitment system.
Should you require further information, please email employment@zoo.org.au
Application period closes 30th March 2010.
Please mention Zoo News Digest should you apply for this post
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