Hoofstock Keeper "Audubon Species Survival Center"
1 month ago
New Orleans
Job Description Position Title: Hoofstock Keeper Department: Animal Location: FMASSC Position Type: Full-time Who We Are Audubon Nature Institute comprises Audubon Park, Audubon Zoo, Audubon Aquarium, Audubon Insectarium, Audubon Louisiana Nature Center, Freeport-McMoRan Audubon Species Survival Center, Woldenberg Riverfront Park, and Audubon Wilderness Park At Audubon Nature Institute, we are more than a collection of parks, museums, and conservation centers—we are a dedicated team with a shared mission to celebrate, protect, and connect people to the wonders of nature. Our work is guided by our culture code, which is at the heart of everything we do. We believe in Activating Impact by integrating tangible, real-world outcomes into all our initiatives, fostering a culture where every action contributes to a positive environmental impact. We are committed to Empowering Optimism, using positivity to inspire others to act and believe in their capacity to create meaningful change. We strive to Create Connection by engaging with people from all walks of life, knowing that the collective strength of a diverse community can address the most pressing challenges facing our natural world. At Audubon, we embody the spirit of Le Bon Temps, infusing the joy and vibrant culture of Louisiana into our everyday work, celebrating our unique heritage while advancing our mission. As Leaders of the Pack, we constantly seek smarter, innovative solutions, challenging conventions to drive the change we want to see in the world. About the Freeport-McMoRan Audubon Species Survival Center The Freeport-McMoRan Audubon Species Survival Center (FMASSC) is one of nine 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 or birds in large, naturalistic enclosures, to encourage breeding and the expression of natural behaviors. What You’ll Do This keeper position will focus on the husbandry of various hoofstock, as assigned. The Hoofstock 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. Day to Day Responsibilities • Provide daily husbandry of hoofstock as assigned., • 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 other keepers, 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 extreme heat, cold, high humidity, heavy rain, and in whatever else nature throws at us.., • Follow Audubon and local gov’t agency’s nuisance wildlife & pest protocols., • Pleasantly receive and follow direction, follow protocols, and follow safety & security requirements., • 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 and name tag when working., • Comply at all times with Audubon Nature Institute’s standards and regulations to encourage safe and efficient operations. Additional/Overall Skills: • Maintain a positive attitude and a strong sense of accountability, fostering a collaborative team environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute., • Thrive in a team environment, using your organizational and technical skills to ensure the smooth execution of creative projects that resonate with our audience., • Celebrate the successes of your team and bring enthusiasm to your work, reflecting the joyful culture that is at the heart of Audubon’s mission., • Stay adaptable and open to learning new skills, embracing change and innovation as opportunities to lead and grow., • The above listed duties are general statements of required major duties and responsibilities performed on a regular and continuous basis. They do not exclude other duties as assigned. What We’re Looking For Must Haves: (required for the role) • High School diploma or GED, • Understanding of professional animal care and welfare standards., • 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 learn and read animal behavior, especially hoofstock and birds., • Must be able to communicate effectively, professionally, and with emotional maturity., • Sincere interest in animal care, welfare, and conservation., • Must possess basic arithmetic skills, including solving percentage questions and using conversions., • 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., • Possess a good attitude and able to produce quality work in fast paced, high pressure situations., • Proficient in basic computer processing., • Updated Tetanus vaccination., • Proof of a negative TB test in the last 12 months., • Possess a valid driver’s license., • Must pass a background check and drug test., • Must be able to write accurately and professionally Nice-to-Haves: (preferred for the role) • Bachelor of Science degree in biology or related field from a recognized, accredited institution, • Experience using power tools and small equipment, such as weed-trimmers, lawn mowers, etc., • Practical husbandry experience with hoofstock, • Experience at AZA accredited public facility is preferred, • Prior experience with Species360 ZIMS software ideal, but not required. Physical Requirements: • Continuous standing, walking, lifting, bending, and twisting., • Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry objects weighing over 50 pounds, often repeatedly. Team lift 100 pounds., • Regularly climbing ladders and operating machinery., • Sustained manual dexterity and coordination., • Physical stamina for long shifts involving repetitive or strenuous tasks., • Primarily outdoor environments or industrial settings., • Frequent exposure to heat, cold, dust, fumes, or loud noises., • Exposure to potential hazards such as heavy machinery, moving vehicles, electrical equipment, and wild animals.