Job Description

Posting number: ZooAidRS26

Department: Zoological and Environmental Education

Job classification: Zoological Aide

Posting type: Open

Categories: Zoo

Summary

Based on our internal equity review process, the anticipated starting wage for this position is $17.04 hourly.

Based on our internal equity review process, the anticipated starting wage for this position is $17.13 hourly.

PARKS TACOMA is an independent park district in Pierce County, Washington, proudly accredited by both the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) & the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA). As a leader in promoting a healthy, sustainable community, Parks Tacoma manages a diverse range of facilities that provide our communities with exceptional recreational opportunities—from local neighborhood parks and scenic waterfront access to large regional attractions. Serving as both a vital community resource and a regional destination, Parks Tacoma plays a central role in enhancing quality of life throughout the area.

POINT DEFIANCE ZOO & AQUARIUM is the only combined zoo and aquarium in the Pacific Northwest. The 29-acre zoological park was established in 1905, and attracts over 800,000 visitors a year. It is nationally accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, which ensures rigorously high standards of animal welfare, veterinary care, conservation, education and more. The Zoo sits within 700-acre Point Defiance Park, offering spectacular views of Mount Rainier, the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is operated by Parks Tacoma.

OUR MISSION - Awakening a connection to Wild Life with everyone in the Pacific Northwest. Learn more at pdza.org

POSITION INFORMATION - Under the direction of the Area Curator and full-time Staff Biologists, this position is responsible for performing specialized work in the care and observation of animals, and maintenance of habitats in the Rocky Shores & Arctic Tundra area at the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium.

In the performance of their respective tasks and duties all employees are expected to:

• Perform quality work within deadlines with or without direct supervision.
• Interact professionally with other employees, customers and suppliers.
• Work effectively as a team contributor on all assignments.
• Work independently while understanding the necessity for communicating and coordinating work efforts with other employees and organizations.
• Observe applicable safety requirements, use safety equipment provided, implement appropriate safety practices at all times and report immediately any unsafe working conditions or hazards.

Examples of duties

Under the supervision of the Area Curator and full-time Staff Biologists, this position is responsible for assisting with daily maintenance and husbandry of the species in the Rocky Shores & Artic Tundra area; animal diets/food preparation and feeding; habitat cleaning and general maintenance; animal health observations; medical treatments; record keeping; informal public demonstrations and education interpretation; other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years of age or older, with a High School diploma, GED, or equivalent certification
• College experience in biological sciences desirable.
• Previous animal care experience preferred.
• Must be able to communicate effectively and follow written & oral instructions.
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays.

Supplemental information

SCHEDULE & HOURS:

• Part Time: working up to 29 hours per week, ongoing
• Work days may be variable, and include weekends and holidays

ENVIRONMENT:

Indoor and outdoor environment.

Adverse weather conditions.

Cold water while interacting with animals.

PHYSICAL ABILITIES:

Lifting and carrying heavy objects or animals weighing up to 50 pounds.

Pushing. Climbing. Walking.

Kneeling and crouching to work with and feed animals.

Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate specialized equipment and tools.

HAZARDS:

Exposure to potentially dangerous and sick animals.

Exposure to animal bodily fluids/products.

Chemicals, fumes, odors, poor ventilation and noise.

Possible contact with dissatisfied visitors.

PARKS TACOMA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, political affiliation, disability or any other merit factor. Members of ethnic minorities, women, special disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam-era, recently separated veterans, and other protected veterans, persons of disability and/or persons age 40 and over are encouraged to apply.

Parks Tacoma employs only U.S. citizens and lawfully authorized non-U.S. citizens. All new employees must show employment eligibility verification as required by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

Parks Tacoma is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact Human Resources at hr@tacomaparks.com.

Employment is subject to a national background check.

This position is an at-will position with no written or implied contractual agreement.