KEEPER II – BIRDS AND SMALL MAMMALS
Regular Full-Time

• Participate in the primary care and training of the avian and small mammal collection.
• Participate in bird/small mammal care, exhibitory and training.
• Perform daily programs, as well as off-site presentations.
• Perform morning opening and closing duties in assigned exhibit and show areas.
• Oversee that all training, medical, and feeding records are completed.
• Prepare food and feed according to established procedures.
• Provide Environmental Enrichment of bird and small mammal collection.
• Observe animal behavior and report/record unusual/abnormal behavior to supervisor.
• Assist Veterinarian during bird medicals.
• Communicate procedures and work duties to staff when absence is planned.
• May plan and direct the work of support staff and volunteers in primary areas of responsibility.
• Maintain responsibility for adhering to all USDA/APHIS regulations. Follow guidelines as stated in TSA’s federal and state permits.
• Assist with the development and implementation of Standard Operating Procedures in assigned work areas.
• Order supplies for exhibits, holding, shows and training equipment under $100.00
• Clean, maintain and store utensils and equipment used to feed and care for animals.
• May assist in design and set-up of displays.
• May assist with the rehabilitation of birds.
• Contribute to the maintenance and cleanliness of the wet area and all bird and small mammal areas.

MARGINAL FUNCTIONS:
Perform related duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Knowledge of Operant Conditioning and how it is applied to the training of birds and small mammals
• Knowledge of the maintenance, training and husbandry of birds and small mammals
• Knowledge in the safe handling of raptors for presentations and restraint
• Ability to weigh and work up Kilocalories for birds and decide upon appropriate diets
• Knowledge of the husbandry and maintenance of birds in a protective environment
• Skills in public speaking and programming
• Knowledge of free flight training with birds
• Knowledge of small mammal training
• Knowledge of USDA/APHIS regulations, state and federal permits
• Knowledge of the anatomy of birds
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing
• Knowledge of occupational hazards and safety precautions necessary in departmental areas
• Ability to precisely follow complex instructions provided both verbally and in writing
• Ability to plan and direct the work of others
• Ability to use data processing equipment, i.e. keyboard, printer
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, holidays as required, including the ability to work a rotating shift as assigned
• Knowledge of avian rehabilitation and simple medical procedures

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:
Any combination of education and experience which would likely produce the required knowledge, skills and abilities; degree in biology or related field is preferred. Minimum of 2 years experience training birds and mammals preferred.

LICENSE/CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:
Valid Texas driver's license and an insurable driving record

EQUIPMENT/MACHINERY/TOOLS USED:
Scale
Ladders
Computer gear
Microscope
Hand and power tools

WORKING CONDITIONS:
Work is performed both in- and outdoors, in a variety of weather conditions. Physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds, walk, stoop, bend, reach, and to perform strenuous duties while both in and out of water is required. Subject to bites and stings by animals.

Deadline to apply: Open Until Filled

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