Seasonal Hospital/Animal Keeper

Recruitment #111016-MXGC06-400300

Summary Statement

The Seasonal Hospital/Animal Keeper position duties will include: assisting the hospital manager and veterinarian, daily cleaning, feeding and observation of animals in a specified area, basic maintenance duties, public programming on occasion, operant conditioning training, exhibit maintenance, basic grounds keeping, record keeping, and other duties required for daily operations. Work is performed under various weather conditions.  Applicants must be available to work weekends and holidays as scheduled.

Preferred Qualification

Applicants who do not possess the preferred qualification will still be eligible to compete for this position if job requirements are met.

  1. Certified or eligible to be certified in the State of Delaware as a Veterinarian Technician.
  2. Experience or knowledge in Capture Equipment use including remote capture (i.e. darting).

Essential Functions

Essential functions are fundamental, core functions common to all positions in the class series and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class. Since class specifications are descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents can complete job duties of similar kind not specifically listed here.

  • Cares for, feeds and handles wild/exotic animals.
  • Observes the medical and behavioral condition of animals and reports conditions. 
  • Monitors animals under anesthesia (TPR,EKG).
  • Responds to medical conditions of zoo animals and is liaison with Head Vet Tech and Veterinarian.
  • Helps to maintain hospital equipment, inventory and orderliness.
  • Prepares and submits samples (blood, feces, tissue) to lab for diagnostics.
  • Uses microscope and reads fecal smears and flotations.
  • Administer oral, SQ and IM medications under the direction of the veterinarian.
  • Maintains basic grounds and equipment maintenance. 
  • Responds to visitor questions and educates visitors about the care and handling of animals. 
  • Ensures exhibit security to prevent vandalism and maltreatment of animals.  
  • Maintains and compiles records and reports.
  • Must demonstrate responsibility, dependability and good communication skills.
  • Maintain a positive attitude and have fun.

Job Requirements

JOB REQUIREMENTS for Seasonal Hospital/Animal Keeper
Please attach a resume with your online application or use the resume tab in DEL to provide a detailed description of how your education, training and/or experience meets each job requirement including employer, experience/responsibilities and dates (month/year) of employment/training. Applicants must have education, training and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:

  1. Six months experience in feeding, monitoring diet, and caring for animals in an animal care facility such as a zoo or hospital/clinic.
  2. Six months experience in recording, interpreting and communicating observations concerning animal health and behaviors.
  3. Knowledge of biology, natural resources, wildlife management or environmental studies.  
  4. Possession of a valid driver's license (not suspended, revoked, cancelled or disqualified from driving).

Additional Posting Information

This posting may be closed on or before 12/11/2016 upon filling the vacant position.

Conditions of Hire

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.  DNREC does not provide sponsorship for holders of H-1 B Visas.

Must provide proof of negative Tuberculosis Test within the last 12 months before start date.

Applicant must prove Rabies immunity or agree to complete Rabies vaccination (paid for by employer).

Selection Process

The application and resume are evaluated based upon a rating of your education, training and experience as they relate to the job requirements of the position. It is essential that you provide complete and accurate information on your application and resume to include dates of employment, job title and job duties. For education and training, list name of educational provider, training course titles and summary of course content. Narrative information supplied in response to the questions must be supported by the information supplied on the application including your employment, education and training history as it relates to the job requirements.

Once you have submitted your application on-line, all future correspondence related to your application will be sent via email. Please keep your contact information current. You may also view all correspondence sent to you by the State of Delaware in the “My Applications” tab at www.delawarestatejobs.com.

Accommodations

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in all phases of the application and employment process.  To request an auxiliary aid or service please call (302) 739-5458. TDD users should call the Delaware Relay Service Number 1-800-232-5460 for assistance.  The State of Delaware – An Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer.