Wellbeing Research Assistant Zookeeper

Title: Wellbeing Research Assistant Zookeeper

Reports to: Entomology Manager

About Butterfly Pavilion:

At Butterfly Pavilion, we transform the way people think about invertebrates. These small but mighty animals that surround us are so much more than people think. They are everywhere because everything depends on them. They are the hidden heroes of the animal kingdom. As the leader in invertebrate knowledge, inspiration and connection, Butterfly Pavilion works to foster an appreciation of these critical animals by educating the public about the need to protect and care for threatened habitats globally, while conducting research for solutions in invertebrate conservation. Whether it is providing unique, firsthand learning experiences in our exhibits and educational programs, conducting new research that sets the standard for zoos across the country or building innovative solutions for species and habitat conservation in countries around the world, Butterfly Pavilion is leading the way in ensuring invertebrates are protected for the future.

Our Core Values are a large part of who we are as an organization:

• Make Science Cool
• Love What You Do
• Go Above and Beyond
• Lead Change
• Know Your Stuff
• Be Positive
• Welcome All

These aren't just words, but words to live by here at Butterfly Pavilion.

FLSA: Temporary, Non-Exempt, Part Time, 8 hours per week

Commitment: This position is part time (8 hours per week), temporary position that is grant funded through the Associations of Zoos and Aquariums. This position is expected to run a maximum of 92 weeks. Required attendance at monthly all staff, branch and department meetings and additional trainings and Butterfly Pavilion functions as designated essential by department and/or organizational need.

Hourly Rate: $18.00/hour

Position Summary: This position will be split between general zookeeper duties and assisting the Entomology Manager with phasmid wellbeing and care research. The zookeeper will assist the curatorial team in the execution of specific exhibit area objectives and provide care for all exhibitory and non-exhibitory animals at Butterfly Pavilion. This position will support all collections but will have an emphasis on supporting the aquatics section. The zookeeper will assist with data collection, data analysis, daily husbandry and enrichment for the Phasmid species on site. The position supports all animal record keeping, acquisitions, dispositions, and AZA reporting.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities:

• Supports the preparation and return of ambassador/outreach animals.
• Provides daily care for Butterfly Pavilion animals, including cleaning of habitats and aquariums in exhibit areas and behind the scenes.
• Provides daily husbandry for all Butterfly Pavilion animals and monitors their health.
• Keeps accurate records of daily husbandry, maintenance actions, and animal health.
• Assists with the Phasmid husbandry, data collection, data analysis and research.
• Assists with compliance for USDA regulated animals.
• Assists with compliance to AZA standards.
• Communicates daily with the other members of the curatorial team, including interns and volunteers.
• Effectively communicates with direct supervisor and other members of the team.
• Other duties as assigned.

Position Qualifications and Experience:

• Currently pursuing or holding a degree in Biology, Zoology or related field of study.
• Experience working with invertebrates/butterflies or animals in a zoo, museum, or similar facility is desired.
• Experience may be accepted in lieu of a degree.
• Prior experience working with, as well as comfort working with, individuals of different ages and abilities.

Additional Requirements:

• Employee must maintain an up-to-date Tetanus vaccination.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:

While performing the responsibilities of this position, these work environment characteristics are representative of the environment the position will encounter. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable people with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

• At Butterfly Pavilion, the employee is occasionally exposed to moderate to loud environmental noise for extended periods of time. While performing the responsibilities of this position, the employee is required to talk and hear. The employee is often required to sit and stand, use their hands and fingers, to handle/feel/grasp. The employee is occasionally required to reach with arms and hands, climb or balance, and to stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. Vision abilities required by this job include close vision. Employee should be able to lift and carry any items up to 50 lbs.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to high humidity, intense sunlight, heat, cold, wind, precipitation, and uneven surfaces. The employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts and vehicles. This position may have to occasionally run small machinery. The employee will be exposed to chemicals (bleach, vinegar, ammonia, etc.). This employee must handle a variety of invertebrate animals.

How to Apply:

Butterfly Pavilion is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages people of all backgrounds to apply for open positions and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty or veteran status.

Applicants must submit a Resume and Cover Letter.

Position is open until filled. No phone calls or drop-ins please.

Note: An offer is contingent upon passing of a criminal background check.