Thursday, September 21, 2017

Ectotherms Keeper



 Ectotherms Keeper

Auckland Zoo

  • Rare chance to work at one of the world's most ambitious and conservation-focused zoos.
  • Care for a diverse collection of native and exotic reptiles, amphibians, fish and invertebrates.
  • Contribute directly to the conservation of native fauna through breed-for-release programmes.
  • Unique opportunity to participate regularly in field conservation projects


Auckland Zoo delivers exciting and educational visitor experiences that inspire and empower people to take positive action for wildlife and the environment, and is a leader in the field of zoo-enabled conservation. This is an opportunity to join the Life Sciences team and be part of an organization that is proud of its contribution to the conservation of species and their habitats in New Zealand and abroad.


Auckland Zoo recently opened the award-winning $15million NZ fauna precinct, Te Wao Nui, which is providing many new opportunities for the zoo to contribute to the conservation of New Zealand wildlife, both in the zoo and in the field. It features six zones displaying more than 60 native animal species (including invertebrates, fish, amphibians, reptiles, mammals and birds) and more than 110 native plant species.

The role:

The Ectotherm Keeper works as part of a team responsible for the daily husbandry and management of a diverse range of native reptiles, frogs, fish, and invertebrates species including tuatara, Otago and chevron skinks, Archey's frog, long-fin eels and giant weta, exotic species such as American alligators, Galapagos tortoises, Australian lizards and bird-eating spiders.
The organisation is committed to conservation in the field, as well as in the zoo, and all members of the Ectotherm team are fortunate to regularly participate in a diverse range of field programmes in New Zealand. To meet the Zoo's operational needs, the successful candidate may occasionally be required to care for other animal taxa or undertake additional tasks at the Team Leader's and/or Curator's discretion.

To be successful in this opportunity you will need to be a highly experienced specialist keeper with a comprehensive knowledge of the management and husbandry required for a range of ectotherm species. You will be able to demonstrate high standards, possess exceptional attention to detail, be highly organised and keen to learn. Good team skills and demonstrable supervisory experience are essential whilst the ability to work independently and to show initiative is also crucial. An interest in and aptitude for fieldwork and prior relevant experience is advantageous along with proven scientific writing skills.

A relevant degree in biological sciences/conservation is preferred and a minimum of four years practical experience caring for a diverse herpetological/entomological collection is essential.

This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a world-class organisation, contribute to conservation and progress your career - are you ready to do something wild every day?

This is a full-time permanent role, working 40hrs per week on a 14-day roster system including weekends and public holidays. A high level of energy and physical fitness will enable you to meet the daily challenges of the role.

This position is deemed a safety sensitive position and will require pre-employment drug testing.

Applications close Wednesday 4th of October at 10.30pm

Auckland Council is committed to the protection and wellbeing of children. A component of this role involves interaction with children so, as a part of the assessment of candidates, we will require Police Vetting of candidates to ensure we are providing a safe environment for children. This requirement complies with the Vulnerable Children Act 2014.

To apply please click HERE



Peter Dickinson
Independent International Zoo Consultant
      


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