Animal Nutrition Coordinator

Houston Zoo; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 50,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

Houston Zoo seeks an Animal Nutrition Coordinator to support the daily operation of the Animal Nutrition Center, focusing on coordinating the browse program and commissary operations. You will oversee processing, distribution of fresh browse, and ensure accurate records and food safety compliance, while collaborating with care teams to uphold animal nutrition and welfare.

You will train staff and volunteers, participate in projects and SOPs, and join tours or events to educate guests about

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Six years of food preparation experience at AZA or equivalent facility.
• Must have or obtain a Texas driver's license within 60 days of employment.
• Ability to work effectively under minimal supervision.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate onsite browse processing logistics per Nutritionist/Supervisor.
• Maintain records of plant species harvested and quantities distributed.
• Ensure commissary protocols, labeling and food safety daily.
• Follow USDA, FDA and AZA guidelines for nutrition and food safety.
• Prepare daily diets per written/oral instructions; source ingredients from ANC facilities.
• Maintain inventory records and process diet change requests in MS Office and databases.
• Submit restocking requisitions and place vendor orders.
• Inspect facilities/equipment and submit repair work orders.
• Maintain sanitation of work areas, surfaces and equipment in ANC.
• Pack and deliver diets and supplies zoo-wide per instructions.
• Assist with receiving operations and operate forklifts/pallet jacks.
• Support research projects, conservation, and AZA or other activities.
• Interact with public during tours/keeper chats when needed.
• Assist pest control and report maintenance/safety issues.

Skills

Teamwork

Leadership

Food safety awareness

Attention to detail

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Forklift operation

Job description

The Animal Nutrition Coordinator supports the daily operation of the Houston Zoo's Animal Nutrition Center, with a primary focus on coordinating the zoo's browse program and commissary operations. This position oversees the collection, processing, and distribution of fresh browse for the animal collection, ensures accurate recordkeeping and food safety compliance, coordinates inventory and ordering activities, and assists with the preparation and delivery of diets and supplies. The Coordinator also helps oversee daily workflows, trains and mentors staff and volunteers, supports operational projects and standard operating procedures, and collaborates closely with animal care teams to ensure the highest standards of animal nutrition and welfare.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Coordinate onsite browse processing logistics as directed by Nutritionist and Supervisor, ensuring proper cleaning, processing, and distribution.
• Maintain accurate records of plant species harvested and quantities distributed to animal sections.
• Ensure commissary protocols, recordkeeping, labeling, and food safety measures are carried out daily.
• Work in accordance with USDA, FDA, and AZA regulations, guidelines, and best practices related to animal nutrition, food safety, and commissary operations.
• Prepare daily diets for animal collection, following written and oral instructions regarding food type, quantity, and preparation format; obtain necessary ingredients from the ANC barn, coolers, and freezers.
• Maintain daily product inventory records and diet change requests using Microsoft Office software applications and database systems.
• Submit requisitions for restocking food inventory and place orders with vendors as needed.
• Carry out routine inspections of assigned areas, submit work orders for ANC facility and equipment repairs.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of work area, food surfaces, and equipment within the ANC.
• Pack and deliver diets and supplies throughout the zoo as per instructions.
• Support receiving operations, including unloading food shipments, verifying deliveries against packing slips, and operating equipment such as forklifts and pallet jacks.
• Assist with departmental research projects, conservation, AZA, or other industry activities as directed/approved by the AN Supervisor/Nutritionist.
• Occasionally interact with and educate the public about animal nutrition and department operations through tours, keeper chats, and other special events.
• Assist in pest control using exclusion or traps in conjunction with the zoo’s pest control officer.
• Identify potential maintenance or safety issues and report them to the AN Supervisor.
• Exhibit good teamwork and communication skills both within the home team and when working with other teams or departments.
• Safely operate a motor vehicle and demonstrate proficiency in all duties and work areas within the ANC.
• Assist with training, mentoring, and may oversee and direct activities of teenage volunteers and Zoo Crew.
• Serve as a point of contact for area staff, veterinarians, Facilities staff, and other departments in the absence of the Animal Nutrition Supervisor.
• Assist the Animal Nutrition Supervisor in overseeing team projects and developing and implementing area standard operating procedures.
• Serve as a positive role model for interns, volunteers, and other keepers and staff; actively pursue feedback and resources to improve leadership skills and help others improve such skills.
• Contribute to saving animals in the wild through reduction of waste, water and energy use, and inspiring guests and staff to take wildlife protecting actions.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree (BA/BS) from a four‑year college or university; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of six (6) years of food preparation experience at an AZA or equivalent facility, gained through employment or internships.
• Must have or be able to obtain a valid Texas driver’s license within 60 days of employment.
• Ability to work effectively and efficiently under minimal supervision.

Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer.