Zoological Aide – Asian Forest Sanctuary

About the Department

PARKS TACOMA is a CAPRA and AZA-accredited, independent park district that leads efforts to build a healthy, sustainable community. Located in Tacoma, Washington, the park district is comprised of many different facilities that offer residents a variety of recreational opportunities. From waterfront access to local neighborhood parks to large regional facilities and attractions, Parks Tacoma is both a local community asset and regional destination.

POINT DEFIANCE ZOO & AQUARIUM is the only combined zoo and aquarium in the Pacific Northwest. The 29-acre zoological park was established in 1905, and attracts over 800,000 visitors a year. It is nationally accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), which ensures rigorously high standards of animal welfare, veterinary care, conservation, education and more. The Zoo sits within 700-acre Point Defiance Park, offering spectacular views of Mount Rainier, the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. For more info visit https://www.pdza.org/.
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OUR MISSION - Awakening a connection to Wild Life with everyone in the Pacific Northwest.  Learn more pdza.org.
 
POSITION INFORMATION - 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

• Assisting with daily maintenance and husbandry of the species in the Asian Forest Sanctuary
• Animal diets/food preparation and feeding
• Exhibit cleaning and general maintenance
• Animal health observations and record keeping
• Informal public demonstrations and education interpretation
• Other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

• Have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent certificate at time of hire
• College courses 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 and current resume must be attached to your application to be considered for this position.

Other Qualifications

HOURS:

• Year-round, part-time position, working up to 29 hours per week.
• Must be available at least 4-5 days per week, including weekends and holidays.

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 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.

Manages public parks and recreational facilities in Tacoma, Washington.