Animal Care Specialist
Position Summary
The Animal Care Specialist is an integral part of the animal care team responsible for the care, welfare and safety of the animal collection. Works closely with the Animal Health Department to ensure the highest quality care of the animal population.
Duties and Responsibilities
Perform AM and PM animal and enclosure checks in conjunction with other animal care staff
Observe animal behavior on a daily and long term basis
- Note unusual behavior, signs of illness or injury, change of appetite or food consumption, change in compatibility towards group members
- Report changes to Animal Care Manager and Veterinary Technician
- Administer medication or other treatments as directed along with the Animal Care Manager and Veterinary Technician
Animal Food
- Prepare, store and distribute food according to established diet amounts and types of food
- Monitor feeding habits and report changes or abnormalities
Provide enrichment for animal collection, use operant conditioning techniques for training of husbandry behaviors of permanent animal collection
Enclosure maintenance
- Clean animal enclosures, removing excrement and food remnants and noting unusual conditions, unsafe conditions
- Perform routine maintenance as needed
- Note enclosure needs, reporting and ensuring safety concerns are addressed immediately
- Communicate needs to maintenance staff and ensure timely completion
Capture, restrain and sedate animals as needed for moving, veterinary treatment, release, etc.
Along with other animal care staff, care for critical and baby animals and quarantine as needed
Assist with veterinary procedures or in veterinary clinic as needed
Communication requirements
- Communicate with animal care staff including veterinary technicians regarding new and ongoing animal needs
- Prepare daily report and send electronically to all SWCC staff
Other duties as assigned
Physical requirements
- Must have current rabies and tetanus vaccination status or be willing to obtain.
- Must be in good physical condition with the ability to lift 50 pounds.
- Must be able to work outdoors in extreme weather conditions, especially heat.
- Must be able to obtain valid Arizona drivers license and provide own transportation.
- Requires contact with wild animals, including animal dander, excrement, blood and hair.
- Employees will encounter pests such as snakes, insects and rodents.
Application process
Send letter of interest, resume, and two letters of reference to Kim Carr at kim.carr@southwestwildlife.org. No phone calls accepted.
