Ectotherms Keeper - PT
On-site · Newport News, Virginia, United States
Job Summary
The Ectotherms Keeper is responsible for all aspects of Museum’s reptile, amphibian, aquatic, and invertebrate collections, both ambassador and exhibit animals, including but not limited to cleaning, feeding, inspecting/observing animals, maintaining exhibits, implementing veterinary care, nutrition and enrichment programs, and record-keeping. Acquires and maintains appropriate knowledge about animals, exhibits, museum policies, procedures, and facilities. The Ectotherm Keeper works in cooperation with curatorial staff as well as other departments to achieve established facility/operational and AZA standards. This position recognizes the capacity to achieve greater results by integrating skilled volunteers, leveraging their diverse knowledge and skills. This position reports directly to the Ectotherms Curator.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree or current progress towards it in biology, zoology, psychology, or related field
- Minimum 6 months of experience in general animal husbandry (preferably native or exotic ectotherms)
- Ability to physically maintain enclosures to safely and effectively house various ectotherms
- Ability and willingness to learn current operant conditioning and enrichment techniques
- Proficiency in the use and safe operation of hand and power tools in order to make enclosure/exhibit repairs or improvements, while ensuring animal, coworker, and public safety
- Basic knowledge of (or willingness to learn) aquatic life support systems, nitrogen cycle/water chemistry, and reptile lighting systems
- Excellent reliability, time management, communication, and observational skills
- Ability to speak to groups of all ages
- Passion for animals, their welfare and conservation
- Ability and willingness to learn proper handling and restraint techniques of animals in assigned areas
- Must be self-reliant and motivated
- Must be able to remain calm, make sound decisions and provide clear directions in a crisis situation
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