Job Description

Posting number: ZooAideAq26

Department: Zoological and Environmental Education

Division: PDZA Animal Care

Job classification: Zoological Aide

Posting type: Open

Categories: Education, Miscellaneous, Natural Resources, Zoo, Research

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.

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 Curator, Assistant Curator or area Staff Biologist, this position is responsible for performing a variety of semi-skilled duties involved in the care, observation, maintenance, propagation and management of assigned aquarium animal species and exhibits, and the presentation of such species to the general public in an educational and engaging manner. 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

Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Cleaning animal exhibits and holding areas to assure the health of animals and the presentation of the species in an attractive environment
• Remove animal fecal and other materials on a regular basis
• Preparing, storing and distributing food according to established amounts, types and diets
• Monitoring feeding habits and reporting changes or abnormalities
• Monitoring food levels to assure sufficient supply levels
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• High School diploma, GED or equivalent certification
• Experience in the operation and maintenance of aquarium systems
• Excellent customer service and observational skills
• Ability to communicate effectively and follow written & oral instructions
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays
• Possess a valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record (A five-year driving abstract will be required upon hire, at applicant's expense).
• Ability to obtain a First Aid + CPR certification within 90 days of hire

Desired Qualifications

• Coursework or bachelor's degree in biology, zoology or related field

Supplemental information

HOURS

• Part-time continual position, maximum of 29 hours per week
• Hours and days each week may vary

ENVIRONMENT

• Indoor and outdoor environment
• Adverse weather conditions
• Cold water while interacting with Fish & Invertebrates.

PHYSICAL ABILITIES

• Lifting and carrying heavy objects or animals weighing up to 80 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 fecal.
• Chemicals, fumes, odors, poor ventilation and noise.
• Possible contact with angry or upset 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 Resource (253) 305-1089 or HR@ParksTacoma.gov.

Employment is subject to a national background check.

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