Zoo Jobs: Animal Care Position

Animal Care Position

May 2022
Full Time/CCF SOMALILAND
Hargeisa, Somaliland, Africa
send an email to slkeeper@cheetah.org

CHEETAH CONSERVATION FUND (CCF) is the oldest and longest running program dedicated to cheetah research, education, and conservation. Our CCF Somaliland project is growing, and we are actively seeking adventurous people with a great dedication to and a passion for wildlife to join our staff.

CCF is currently seeking a full-time ANIMAL CARE KEEPER for its cheetah rescue facility in Hargeisa, Somaliland. The CCF facility provides housing and veterinary care for cheetah cubs confiscated by the Somaliland government authorities from the illegal wildlife trade. The position requires keepers to work with a team of local and international keepers, veterinarians, and vet techs under the supervision of the Project Manager, Animal Care Manager, and the Project Director. Applicants have an opportunity to make a daily difference in the lives of the rescued cats, help educate about the importance of preserving wildlife and work alongside Somaliland people, providing another opportunity to learn a new language and culture. This Keeper position will work with our team towards the development of a permanent cheetah sanctuary in Geed Deeble Reserve, in a natural area outside of Hargeisa city.

Main Duties:
Assure a high standard of animal care husbandry and health
Duties will include but are not limited to all aspects of the daily management of the cheetahs and other animals in our care including cleaning, feeding, enrichment, detailed record keeping, behavioral observations, diet preparation, general maintenance, husbandry training, and assisting with veterinary care
Interact with visitors and guest to the facility
Required to work 45 hours per week, however due to the job, longer hours may be required to care for the animals and facilities
Other duties as assigned by the Managers

Requirements:
Willing to relocate to Hargeisa, Somaliland
-2+ years animal husbandry experience
Ability to follow protocols and policy and help review and develop new materials with the Management team
Calm demeanor, with good communications skills and able to work and live effectively with a team of co-workers
High level of responsibility and personal drive
Experience in delivering environmental and wildlife education programs
Driver’s License with good driving record and the ability to operate vehicles with manual transmission
Effective written and verbal communication skills, must be fluent in written and spoken English

Preferred Qualifications:
Degree in animal sciences (biology, zoology), environmental education, animal management or a comparable subject
3-5 years of experience in the care of captive large carnivores, preferably big cat species
Experience with animal training, especially training for medical behaviors
Experience with Microsoft Excel