The Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines, Iowa is a non-profit organization and home to more than 2,800 animals representing nearly 240 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish, and is fully accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The mission of the Blank Park Zoo is to inspire an appreciation of the natural world through conservation, education, research and recreation.
Position Purpose
The Commissary and Quarantine Keeper is responsible for the daily preparation of animal diets and daily care of quarantine animals according to the established procedures. Additionally, the Commissary and Quarantine Keeper supports our Zoo Mission which is to inspire an appreciation of the natural world through conservation, education, research, and recreation.
Essential Functions
- Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.
- Prepare, store, and stock food, supplies, purchase orders and packages for all departments of the zoo.
- Assist in the procurement of dietary items from approved vendors, clean and maintain animal diet freezers and refrigerators according to AZA / USDA standards while also cleaning, maintaining, storing, and assisting in the areas of responsibility.
- Accurately prepare daily diets for animal care teams, and effectively communicate with animal care staff regarding their team needs and weekly orders.
- Perform regular quality assurance checks, monitor product freshness, and check expiration dates of stock items.
- Adheres to established animal handling and related safety protocols. Participates in established animal escape drills and procedures. Under supervision captures, restrains, and transports animals.
- Responsible for daily observation of animal health and welfare. Reports abnormal behavior and problems to the area supervisor. Maintains accurate records of animal collection daily.
- Cooperate and assist with veterinary treatments and instructions, which may include safely working free-contact situations.
- Participate in membership programs including tours, presentations, and lectures.
- Provides for the husbandry needs of all animals in care by participating in diet preparation, daily cleaning, feeding, enrichment, and daily observations.
- Performs minor repairs and improvements of exhibits under supervision.
- Identifies and communicates with maintenance repairs needed for the safety of animals, visitors, and staff as well as overall upkeep of the facilities.
Competencies
- Resourceful – Understanding of or can research all applicable topics as they relate to modern zoological management, operations of an attraction and customer service.
- Flexible – Ability to handle a flexible workload with a variety of assignments while also maintaining composure in an environment that can be stressful.
- Independent – Must be able to operate independently, exercise initiative and demonstrate a capacity for detail and follow-up.
- Positive – Must be a positive, effective team member and be able to establish professional working relationships.
- Communicator – Communicates clearly, both verbally and written. Effective listening skills.
- Critical Thinker – Ability to make decisions while under pressure or solve complex problems that arise daily.
- Innovative – Ability to propose solutions to areas of concern as related to animal care.
- Efficient – Ability to complete tasks in a thorough but quick manner.
- Customer-oriented – Always exercises professional customer service skills. Interacts with m many different types of people and situations.
- Team Player – Collaborates with area supervisor and team to achieve common husbandry goals.
Supervisory/Management Responsibilities
Assists with supervision of interns and volunteers.
Work Environment
While performing the duties of the job, the incumbent is regularly required to stand, walk on even terrain, climb, and utilize manual dexterity to use various tools, machines, and equipment. The incumbent is regularly exposed to all types of weather conditions including extreme heat and cold, snow, hail, wind, and rain. Some work is required in small and/or confined spaces. Incumbents are exposed to noisy environments such as mowers and motors.
While performing the duties of the job, the incumbent is required to work both indoors and outdoors with exposure to seasonal weather conditions for special events and tours. The incumbent may be required travel to other locations and to meetings. This individual may be exposed to computer monitors. The noise level is moderate.
While performing the duties of the job, the incumbent is regularly required to sit and work at a desk for extended periods of time, stand, walk, and utilize manual dexterity to use computer mouse and keyboard and other office equipment.
Physical Requirements
The physical requirements described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to successfully perform the essential functions.
Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles and the like.
Never Occasionally Constantly
Moving self in different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments including tight and confined spaces.
Never Occasionally Constantly
Remaining in a stationary position, often standing or sitting for prolonged periods.
Never Occasionally Constantly
Moving about to accomplish tasks or moving from one worksite to another.
Never Occasionally Constantly
Adjusting or moving objects up to 50 pounds in all directions.
Never Occasionally Constantly
Communicating with others to exchange information.
Never Occasionally Constantly
Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers.
Never Occasionally Constantly
Operating machinery and/or power tools.
Never Occasionally Constantly
Operating motor vehicles or heavy equipment.
Never Occasionally Constantly
Assessing the accuracy, neatness and thoroughness of the work assigned.
Never Occasionally Constantly
Driving.
Never Occasionally Constantly
Stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling –
Never Occasionally Constantly
Reaching with hands and arms.
Never Occasionally Constantly
Tasting or smelling.
Never Occasionally Constantly
Vision
Close vision; Distant vision; Color vision; Peripheral vision; Depth perception; Ability to adjust focus
Lifting Requirement.
more than 50 pounds Up to 50 pounds Up to 40 pounds Up to 25 pounds Up to 10 pounds
Required education and experience
- Four-year college degree, or relevant zoo experience.
- Intermediate word processing skills.
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Office required.
Additional eligibility requirements
- Must be insurable to drive a zoo vehicle.
- Must be able to maintain work hours that will serve the needs of the Blank Park Zoo
- Must be able to operate various equipment, including trailers, and large vehicles.
- Must be able to maintain calm and act professionally in all situations such as emergencies and guest interactions.
Licenses/Certifications
- Valid Iowa motor vehicle license or ability to obtain
- First Aid/CPR Training or ability to obtain
Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Affirmative Action/EEO Statement
Blank Park Zoo is an equal opportunity employer and gives employment and promotional consideration without regard to race, color, sex, religion, age, disability, disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam era, and any other protected class as required by local, state, or federal law. We seek applicants for employment who are dedicated, hardworking and seek fulfilling employment. In return, Blank Park Zoo offers competitive income, benefits, and an excellent working environment.
