Rainforest Staff

Job Summary

This job consists of daily care and proper upkeep of animals and their facilities.

Position Authority

The incumbent is authorized to take reasonable action necessary to carry out assigned duties and responsibilities, provided such action is consistent with position guidelines as outlined below.

Position Guidelines

Position guidelines include, but are not limited to, established company and department policies and procedures and all supervisory directives. The incumbent is expected to exercise sound, reasonable judgment and initiative, and give high priority to accuracy and details in the performance of job responsibilities.

Essential Functions

Professional Animal Care

• Report to work location by scheduled time
• Maintain clean, professional appearance
• Perform daily routines as scheduled
• Maintain appropriate animal records
• Assist with animal treatments as directed
• Assist with animal movements as directed
  
  

Communication

• Conduct yourself in a helpful, patient manner with staff, volunteers and guests
• Participate in various public presentations, with or without animals
• Communicate problems with animals and exhibits to Assistant Curators
  
  

Facility Maintenance

• Observe and maintain assigned areas
• Report supply needs to Assistant Curators
• Any and all other duties as assigned; duties are subject to change as management deems necessary to best serve the needs of Moody Gardens
  
  

Education/ Experience Requirements

• High School diploma or equivalent
• Experience in the handling and care of animals preferred
• S.C.U.B.A. certification preferred, must be a swimmer and willing to take S.C.U.B.A. certification if required in work area
• Must have valid driver’s license
  
  

Required Skills

• Must be reliable and responsible
• Must be organized, self-motivated, with a desire to see projects through to completion
• Must have a strong desire to work with animals and provide them with the best care available
• Must be observant and able to work with other employees, volunteers and the public in a polite, patient manner
• Available for overtime, both non-emergency and emergency situations
  
  

Physical Requirements

• Subject to possibility of bites, stings and other work related biological risks
• Work in water, both man-made and natural, with temperatures ranging from 45 to 90°
• Heavy lifting (greater than 50 pounds on occasion), walking and working within a wet environment
• Outdoor work on occasion, under a variety of conditions: cold weather, hot weather, rain, mud, ocean environments and dry land