Swing Keeper - Audubon Institute : Job Details

Full-time, Benefited- Swing KeeperStarting rate $16.00 commensurate with experienceFreeport-McMoRan Audubon Species Survival Center, Audubon Nature Institute, New Orleans, LA 14001 Patterson Rd, New Orleans 70131The Audubon Species Survival Center is looking to hire a new Swing Keeper to join our team! We are looking for a well-rounded individual with a positive attitude, the ability to work in a team environment, and the flexibility to design the day's schedule based on the needs of the animals and facility.About the Freeport-McMoRan Audubon Species Survival Center: The Freeport-McMoRan Audubon Species Survival Center (FMASSC) is one of several facilities run by the Audubon Nature Institute. It is a unique piece of property that expands approximately 1,000 acres in an area just south of the city of New Orleans. The FMASSC facility is not open to the general public and is dedicated to the population sustainability and conservation of hoofstock and bird species. The goal is to manage herds of hoofstock in large, forested paddocks, including species such as okapi, bongo, giraffe, sable, barasingha, sitatunga, etc. and to manage breeding programs of several large bird species including Mississippi sandhill cranes, whooping cranes, curassow and storks. The Audubon Species Survival Center is currently looking for a dedicated Swing Keeper. The Swing Keeper is responsible for the proper care of animals of an assigned area and may be assigned to any area of the animal department during any given workday.Description: Reporting directly to the Assistant Curator, this keeper position will focus on the husbandry of various hoofstock & birds, and commissary duties as assigned. The Swing Keeper will be expected to complete daily husbandry, enclosure maintenance, enrichment, and training tasks. They will assist in medical procedures, keep clear and organized records, and meet the physical requirements of the job. This position requires the keeper to be able to work independently and on a team in both leader and follower capacities. Keeper pay scale is based on experience and education.Responsibilities: Provide daily husbandry of the captive hoofstock and birds as assigned. This position will rotate through different routines as the schedule needs and will include commissary assignments as well. Enclosure cleaning and maintenance. Preparation and administering of enrichment items and involvement in training programs. Assist in the hand-rearing of animals, if needed. Identify and perform routine maintenance. Often conducting many projects at one time. Perform routine grounds/landscaping tasks. Maintain records, including using ZIMS record software, and conduct behavioral observations. Assist in the training and supervision of interns and volunteers. Assist veterinary and supervisory staff in treating animals as assigned. Prepare and follow prescribed diets and feeding procedures. Perform physical, and sometimes repetitive, tasks outdoors, in potentially extreme heat, high humidity, heavy rain, and around a wide array of potentially harmful wild animals, such as snakes, insects and poisonous plants. This position may be strenuous and labor intensive. Follow Audubon and local gov't agency's nuisance wildlife & pest protocols. Pleasantly receive and follow direction, follow protocols, and follow safety & security requirements. Ability to work independently and on a team. Ability to work around and make adjustments for large animals, small animals, aggressive species, and flighty species. Ability to use power tools and equipment, such as weed-trimmers, lawn mowers, etc. Ability to learn and read animal behavior, especially in hoofstock and birds. Maintain regular attendance in compliance with Audubon Nature Institute's standards, as required by scheduling which may vary according to the needs of the organization. Maintain high standards of personal appearance and grooming, which includes wearing the proper uniform. Comply at all times with Audubon Nature Institute's standards and regulations to encourage safe and efficient operations.Qualifications: Preferred experience & education (AZA experience preferred)o 2 years of animal experience ORo An Associate's degree and 18 months of animal experience OR o A Bachelor's degree in a science or leadership related field A proven interest and knowledge in a variety of taxa; a well-rounded keeper is ideal. Prior experience with hoofstock and birds preferred. Must have accurate oral and written communication skills. Prior experience with Species360 ZIMS software ideal, but not required. Must possess basic arithmetic skills, including solving percentage questions and using conversions. Must be able to lift, carry, push, and pull 50 lbs, and team lift 100 lbs. Ability to stoop, walk for extended periods, stand for extended periods, jump, and maneuver quickly when needed. Ability to anticipate, identify, prevent, and solve problems. Must have good common sense, the ability to think constructively, and able to take constructive criticism and direction. Risk periodic exposure to fairly predictable and controllable hazards associated with wild animals and zoonotic diseases. Possess a good attitude and able to produce quality work in fast paced, high pressure situations. Excellent communication skills. Convey information and ideas clearly and in a timely manner. Some people management skills a plus. A current tetanus shot, proof of a negative TB test (within 6 months), and proof of COVID vaccine prior to starting. A valid driver's license and reliable transportation. Willingness and ability to work weekends, holidays, and overtime. Proficient in basic computer processing. Be able to pass background check and drug screen.Benefits: Audubon Nature Institute offers excellent and competitive benefits, such as health, dental, 403b retirement plans, and entry into other Audubon facilities. Applications: Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Apply online at audubonnatureinstitute.org to submit a coverletter, resume, and 3 reference contacts.