About the Department
Based on our internal equity review process, the anticipated starting wage for this position is $17.78 hourly
Parks Tacoma is an independent park district in Pierce County, Washington, proudly accredited by both the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) & the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA). As a leader in promoting a healthy, sustainable community, Parks Tacoma manages a diverse range of facilities that provide our communities with exceptional recreational opportunities—from local neighborhood parks and scenic waterfront access to large regional attractions. Serving as both a vital community resource and a regional destination, Parks Tacoma plays a central role in enhancing quality of life throughout the area.Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is the only combined zoo and aquarium in the Pacific Northwest. Located within the scenic 700-acre Point Defiance Park, the 29-acre zoological park offers breathtaking views of Mount Rainier, the Olympic Mountains, and Puget Sound. Since its founding in 1905, the Zoo has welcomed over 800,000 visitors annually and remains a beloved regional destination. Accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium upholds the highest standards in animal welfare, veterinary care, conservation, and education.
Our Mission: Awakening a connection to Wild Life with everyone in the Pacific Northwest. Learn more pdza.org POSITION INFORMATION - Under the direction of the Assistant Curator, this position is responsible for performing specialized work in the care, observation and maintenance of an assigned zoological area at the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. In the performance of their respective tasks and duties all employees are expected to:
- Perform quality work within deadlines with or without direct supervision.
- Interact professionally with other employees, customers and suppliers.
- Work effectively as a team contributor on all assignments.
- Work independently while understanding the necessity for communicating and coordinating work efforts with other employees and organizations.
- Observe applicable safety requirements, use safety equipment provided, implement appropriate safety practices at all times and report immediately any unsafe working conditions or hazards.
Position Duties
Duties include, but are not limited to:
- Daily husbandry of ambassador birds, mammals, reptiles, and invertebrates
- Maintaining records; wild animal management
- Presenting animals informally and formally to zoo visitors
Zoological Aides will participate in or assist with a multi-taxa, large format, scripted animal presentations in the Zoo’s Wild Wonders Outdoor Theater, a covered, 350-seat amphitheater that features off-leash and free-flight behaviors. Additionally, Zoological Aides will participate in the presentation of the Bugs Alive! invertebrate program.
Minimum Qualifications
- High school diploma, GED, or equivalent certification at date of hire
- College degree in biological sciences desirable
- Previous exotic bird or animal husbandry experience preferred
- Must have excellent customer service and observational skills
- Must be able to communicate effectively and follow written & oral instructions
- Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays
- A Cover Letter & current Resume must be attached to your application to be considered for this position
Other Qualifications
HOURS & SCHEDULE
This seasonal position is expected to work up to 40 hours per week for a period of 6 months, maximum.
We are aiming for a start date between May 16 and June 1, 2026. We understand candidates may have existing commitments and are open to some flexibility based on availability.
ENVIRONMENT- Indoor and outdoor environment
- Adverse weather conditions
- Cold water while interacting with mammals
PHYSICAL ABILITIES- Lifting and carrying heavy objects or animals weighing up to 50 pounds
- Pushing; climbing; walking; kneeling and crouching to work with and feed animals
- Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate specialized equipment and tools
HAZARDS- Exposure to potentially dangerous and/or sick animals
- Exposure to animal fecal
- Chemicals, fumes, odors, poor ventilation and noise
- Contact with upset or unsatisfied visitors
PARKS TACOMA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, political affiliation, disability or any other merit factor. Members of ethnic minorities, women, special disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam-era, recently separated veterans, and other protected veterans, persons of disability and/or persons age 40 and over are encouraged to apply. Parks Tacoma employs only U.S. citizens and lawfully authorized non-U.S. citizens. All new employees must show employment eligibility verification as required by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Parks Tacoma is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact Human Resource (253) 305-1089 or
HR@parkstacoma.gov.
Employment is subject to a national background check. This position is an at-will position with no written or implied contractual agreement.
