Blank Park Zoo · Iowa · posted today
The Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines, Iowa is a non-profit organization and home to more than 2,800 animals representing nearly 240 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish, and is fully accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The mission of the Blank Park Zoo is to inspire an appreciation of the natural world through conservation, education, research and recreation. Position Purpose Works under the direction of the Director of Animal Care and carries out a variety of support functions relating to animal records. Duties include: Managing the institution’s animal records, related policies and permits, validates the quality of recorded animal data, and ensures regulatory compliance of all animal transactions. This position exercises confidentiality, discretion and sound judgment in complying with Blank Park Zoo policy and procedure. Essential Functions The following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions. • Manages and maintains both active and inactive animal records systems ensuring data quality, appropriate retention, preservation and accessibility. • Maintain and improve an electronic process for daily animal reports. • Maintain accurate animal records utilizing ZIMS and associated programs. • Oversees the animal movement process including communication, paperwork, and transportation. • Manages the animal census/inventory process. Maintaining up to date animal inventory and produce an annual inventory report. • Performs duties associated with the acquisition and management of local, federal, and state wildlife permits and licenses. • Trains staff in animal record keeping, records management and animal data standards including timely submission of local institution animal data. • Participates in ZRA, AZA, and other appropriate professional associations in an effort to develop and set standards for animal data management and continually elevate the level of professionalism for the registrar position. • Communicate with area supervisors/animal keepers/veterinary staff regarding animal records and information. • Performs other duties as assigned. Competencies • Resourceful – Understanding of or can research all applicable topics as they relate to modern zoological management, operations of an attraction and customer service. • Responsible – Ability to take responsibility of the animal records department and all compliance standards, procedures and policies. • Flexible – Ability to handle a flexible workload with a variety of assignments. • Time Management - Ability to prioritize projects and daily work. • Accurate – Ability to maintain detail and accuracy with communication, reports, compliance and information within the records system. • Independent – Must be able to operate independently, exercise initiative and demonstrate capacity for detail and follow-up. • Positive – Must be a positive, effective team member and be able to establish professional working relationships. • Supportive – Ability to maintain a supportive and open work environment. • Communicator – Communicates clearly, both verbal and written. Effective listening skills. • Confidential - Ability to exercise discretion and maintain confidentiality of information such as personal employee information, credit card information, animal record information, etc. • Critical Thinker – Ability to solve complex problems that arise. • Efficient – Ability to complete task in a thorough but quick manner. • Team Player – Collaborates with supervisor, animal care teams and other departments to achieve common goals. • Innovation- Ability to teach and advance staff, understand modern zoo record-keeping requirements, and be able to research all applicable topics. Ability to continually improve the flow of animal information. Supervisory/Management Responsibilities Supervise volunteers that assist in the area. Ability to effectively train new zookeepers on the animal records system. Work Environment While performing the duties of the job, the incumbent is required to primarily work indoors. The incumbent may be required travel to other locations and to meetings. This individual will be exposed to computer monitors. The noise level is moderate. While performing the duties of the job, the incumbent is regularly required to sit and work at a desk for extended periods of time, stand, walk, and utilize manual dexterity to use computer mouse and keyboard and other office equipment. On occasion, the incumbent will be required to assist with animal transports including driving, lifting, twisting and moving. Physical Requirements The physical requirements described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to successfully perform the essential functions. Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles and the like. ☐ Never ☒ Occasionally ☐ Constantly Moving self in different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments including tight and confined spaces. ☐ Never ☒ Occasionally ☐ Constantly Remaining in a stationary position, often standing or sitting for prolonged periods. ☐ Never ☐ Occasionally ☒ Constantly Moving about to accomplish tasks or moving from one worksite to another. ☐ Never ☒ Occasionally ☐ Constantly Adjusting or moving objects up to 10 pounds in all directions. ☐ Never ☐ Occasionally ☒ Constantly Communicating with others to exchange information. ☐ Never ☐ Occasionally ☒ Constantly Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers. ☐ Never ☐ Occasionally ☒ Constantly Operating machinery and/or power tools. ☒ Never ☐ Occasionally ☐ Constantly Operating motor vehicles or heavy equipment. ☐ Never ☒ Occasionally ☐ Constantly Assessing the accuracy, neatness and thoroughness of the work assigned. ☐ Never ☐ Occasionally ☒ Constantly Driving. ☐ Never ☒ Occasionally ☐ Constantly Stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling – ☐ Never ☒ Occasionally ☐ Constantly Reaching with hands and arms. ☐ Never ☒ Occasionally ☐ Constantly Tasting or smelling. ☒ Never ☐ Occasionally ☐ Constantly Vision ☒ Close vision; ☒Distant vision; ☒ Color vision; ☒ Peripheral vision; ☒Depth perception; ☒ Ability to adjust focus Lifting Requirement. ☐ > than 50 pounds ☒ Up to 50 pounds ☐ Up to 40 pounds ☐ Up to 25 pounds ☐ Up to 10 pounds Required education and experience • Completion of two years of college preferred OR any equivalent combination in which education and experience are interchangeable at the rate of one year of education for one year of experience. • Previous experience or familiarity with animal care protocols and record keeping required. • Proficiency with personal computers including Microsoft Office and Excel, E-mail, internet searches, and animal record software (ZIMS and associated software). • Ability to understand animal data collection. Additional eligibility requirements • Must be insurable to drive a zoo vehicle. • Must be able to maintain work hours that will serve the needs of the Blank Park Zoo including occasional evenings, weekends and holidays. • Must be able to complete risk assessment reports, incident reports and other communication as it relates to security, operation of the facility, and animal records. • Must be able to maintain calm and act professionally in all situations such as emergencies, guest interactions, and communication with all Zoo teams. • Valid Iowa motor vehicle license Other Duties Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. EEO statement Blank Park Zoo is an equal opportunity employer and gives employment and promotional consideration without regard to race, color, sex, religion, age, disability, disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam era, and any other protected class as required by local, state, or federal law. We seek applicants for employment who are dedicated, hardworking and seek fulfilling employment. In return Blank Park Zoo offers competitive income, benefits, and an excellent working environment.
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