Job Opportunity at the ABQ BioPark: Assistant Zookeeper II (BUGarium)
The ABQ BioPark’s Entomology team is seeking an enthusiastic and hard-working team member to provide the highest level of care for the arthropod and arachnid collections. This position reports to the Curator of Entomology and is part of the Entomology Department.
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 a.m.- 5 p.m. 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.