What are the responsibilities and job description for the Ark Encounter Hoofstock Zookeeper Full Time position at Crosswater Canyon Inc?
Job Description:
SUMMARY: The Hoofstock Zoo Keeper position requires experience working with various hoofstock, both large and small, in a working/educational zoo setting. The Zoo is an area to connect and teach guests about the vast biological information possessed by the original created “kinds” and how this has led to the many varieties of animals we have today. The Hoofstock Zookeeper should have a strong background and experience working with hoofstock animals (exotic hoofstock experience preferred), a basic understanding of animal health care and husbandry techniques, an awareness of animal enrichment, ability to perform vigorous physical activities both indoors and outdoors under all weather conditions and enjoy interacting with guests. This position should display our Core Values of SERVE when interfacing with both internal and external customers to ensure that the message and mission of Answers in Genesis is portrayed in an effective and God honoring fashion.
Responsibilities
- Promote the Answers in Genesis mission and standards.
- Create a SERVE culture environment in all work done.
- Responsible for the care of hoofstock animals that may include camelids, zebroids, donkeys, goats, sheep, and Aoudads
- Involved in all facets of the attraction’s animal care program, related to cleaning animal enclosures (e.g., rake, hose, sweep, disinfect, remove manure, clean buildings), operate contact areas, and prepare animal diets/drink
- Educate guests on the animal kinds and care in petting or interacting with the animals during animal presentations and direct interaction with the animals.
- Ensure the safety and care of the animals as well as the guests or other employees.
- All other duties and responsibilities as assigned by management.
- Must agree with and be able to sign our Statement of Faith.
- Availability to work weekends and holidays
- Must be friendly and courteous with guests.
- Must have minimum of one year of work in animal care environment and/or pursuing associate or bachelor’s degree in zoology or related field.
- Bend and lift up to 50 to 100 pounds.
- Must be at least 18 years of age or older.
- To operate ministry trucks and vehicles must possess a valid driver’s license.
- Must be able to stand and move about throughout the attraction for the entire length of shift.
- Perform duties in varied temperatures and weather conditions throughout the attraction (e.g., extreme heat/cold, wind, rain, snow).
ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES
- Promote the Answers in Genesis mission and standards
- Uphold the Quality Service Standards of Safety, Hospitality, Presentation and Efficiency and create a SERVE culture environment in all work done.
- Communicate effectively with supervisors and work as part of a Team
- Assist the Zoo’s Vet Tech and any attending veterinarian with animal health procedures
- Perform husbandry for the animal exhibits and upkeep of public areas
- Observe animals for changes in health or behavior
- Keep animal records as necessary
- Monitor guests graciously to ensure human and animal safety
- Communicate with guests to facilitate their appreciation of the Zoo and Ark
- Help perform repairs to fences, equipment, and overall Zoo as directed.
- Perform all other duties and responsibilities as assigned by zoo management
