Job Opportunity at the ABQ BioPark: Assistant Zookeeper II (BUGarium)
The successful candidate will help the Entomology team provide the highest level of care for the arthropod and arachnid collection. A strong commitment to conservation and understanding of animal well-being is paramount.
The ABQ BioPark consists of the Zoo, Aquarium and Botanic Garden, and Tingley Beach.
This position is employed through a temporary staffing agency, not the City of Albuquerque, and is located at the ABQ BioPark. This full-time position is limited to a two-year term.
The Assistant Zookeeper (Entomology) duties may include, but are not limited to:
- Assist zookeepers in the day-to-day care of the arthropod and arachnid collection
- Husbandry and rearing of several different arthropod species
- Feed and water animals as directed
- Prepare diets for animals
- Clean and maintain assigned animal areas and workspaces as directed and according to established BioPark guidelines
- Adhering to strict USDA containment practices to ensure no animals can escape
- Help maintain cleanliness of assigned areas
- Observe and assist animal training sessions
- Participate in Guest Engagement Moments presentations around the BUGarium
- Provide interpretation to guests during animal encounters and training sessions
- Following detailed protocols to ensure healthy cultures of various species
- Keeping meticulous notes and records
A Successful Assistant Zookeeper will:
- Possess knowledge and/or interest in biology, especially entomology
- Be able to carefully follow protocols with attention to detail
- Have the ability to perform delicate hand work
- Be comfortable working hands on with cockroaches and other arthropods
- Have excellent customer service and communication and skills
- Be familiar with the purpose and importance of zoos and aquariums.
- Prioritize safety and respect and follow protocols.
- Be able to quickly adapt to change during the workday.
- Be motivated to work independently as well as in a fast-paced team environment.
- Have a friendly and open personality and enjoy working with a diverse cross section of individuals.
- Be motivated, hard-working, and dependable.
- Be comfortable working outdoors for several hours a day in variable weather conditions
Qualifications:
- Experience in entomology care or other animal husbandry is preferred but not necessary.
- Applicants must be 18 years or older and be physically able to lift or move up to 50 pounds (feed bags, perching, and equipment).
- Candidates must pass a security background check to be hired.
- Applicants must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation (standing, walking, reaching, bending, squatting, kneeling for prolonged periods of time; heavy, moderate or light lifting, pulling, and pushing).
- Applicants must be able to work around a variety of animals, the public, extreme heat, noise, dust, insects, and in inclement weather conditions.
Work schedule:
Full-time; five days on, two days off. Works one weekend day. Hours from 8 am to 5 pm. Occasional holidays and evening work may be required.
Pay rate:
$12.50 per hour. This position is employed through a temporary staffing agency, not the City of Albuquerque.
To apply:
Interviews will consist of an in-person interview and a tour of the assigned work area.