Seasonal Program Animal Keeper

The Program Animal Keeper assists with the husbandry of the program animals for the Education Department of the Brandywine Zoo. Additionally, this position assists with coordinating on and off-site programming for the zoo, including family programs and other visitor experiences (animal shows, close encounters, exhibit interpretation, etc.). For off-site animal shows this position will be responsible for transportation of the animals.  This position will assist in other program areas as necessary.  Applicants must be available to work weekends, evenings and holidays as scheduled.

Essential functions are fundamental, core functions common to all position in the class series and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class.  Since class specifications are descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents can complete job duties of similar kind not specifically listed here.

• Supports the Brandywine Zoo’s mission of promoting environmental conservation by providing engaging educational experiences between visitors and wildlife.
• Supports the overall mission of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums to be a leader in animal welfare, public engagement and the conservation of species.
• Assists the Education Staff to help create and facilitate guest experiences using our program animals, including animal shows, close encounters and other special experiences.
• Assists with booking and presenting on-site programs and guest experiences, including family programs and workshops, as well as other Education department areas, as required.
• Assists with training programs for volunteers and interns.
• Responds to visitor questions and educates visitors about the care and handling of animals. 
• Delivers programming and assists with other program areas as necessary.
• Works with education, zookeeper, veterinary, behavioral management and Curator teams to provide exceptional levels of animal care and welfare for animal collection.
• Observes the medical and behavioral condition of animals and reports conditions. 
• Ensures clean, safe and maintained animal exhibits and facilities. 
• Ensures appropriate equipment maintenance. 
• Maintains and compiles records and reports using various online programs including Zoological Information Systems (ZIMS).
• Handles and presents ambassador animals during formal and informal programs on and off grounds. 
• Must be able to demonstrate responsibility, dependability and good communication skills.
• Maintains a positive attitude.
• Other duties as assigned.

JOB REQUIREMENTS for Seasonal Naturalist

Please attach a resume with your online application or use the resume tab in DEL to provide a detailed description of how your education, training and/or experience meets each job requirement including employer, experience/responsibilities and dates (month/year) of employment/training. Applicants must have education, training and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:

1. Must be at least 18 years of age.
2. Six months experience in feeding, monitoring diet, and caring for animals in an animal care facility such as a zoo, animal hospital/clinic or animal shelter.
3. Six months experience in recording, interpreting and communicating observations concerning animal health and behaviors.
4. Six months experience in interpretation, both formal and informal presentation techniques.
5. Knowledge of zoology, biology, wildlife management, animal science, or informal/formal education.
6. Possession of a valid driver's license (not suspended, revoked or cancelled, or disqualified from driving).

This posting may be closed on or before 06/14/18 upon filling the vacant position.  

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.  DNREC does not provide sponsorship for holders of H-1 B Visas.

Criminal background check:  A satisfactory criminal background check is required as a condition of hire.  The recruiting agency may require the applicant to pay for the criminal background check as part of the conditional offer of hire.

Applicants must provide proof of negative Tuberculosis test within the last 12 months before start date.

The application and resume are evaluated based upon a rating of your education, training and experience as they relate to the job requirements of the position.  It is essential that you provide complete and accurate information on your application and the resume to include dates of employment, job title and job duties.  For education and training, list name of educational provider, training course titles and summary of course content.   Narrative information supplied in response to the questions must be supported by the information supplied on the application including your employment, education and training history as it relates to the job requirements.

Once you have submitted your application on-line, all future correspondence related to your application will be sent via email.  Please keep your contact information current.  You may also view all correspondence sent to you by the State of Delaware in the “My Applications” tab at www.delawarestatejobs.com.

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in all phases of the application and employment process.  To request an auxiliary aid or service please call (302) 739-5458. TDD users should call the Delaware Relay Service Number 1-800-232-5460 for assistance.  The State of Delaware – An Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer.