Operations Coordinator - Encounters/Deserts

Association Of Zoos & Aquariums; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The Indianapolis Zoo seeks an Operations Coordinator for Encounters/Deserts, focusing on animal conservation. Ideal candidates will have extensive experience with birds, reptiles, or amphibians and a relevant bachelor's degree. This full-time role involves training, scheduling, and ensuring high standards of animal care.

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

Short-term Disability

403(b) Plan

PTO

Paid Holidays

Free Zoo Membership

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of experience with birds, reptiles, or amphibians in a keeper capacity.

Responsibilities

• Train and schedule staff, assist with daily operations.
• Maintain high husbandry standards and monitor animal health.

Skills

Observational Skills

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Life Sciences

Job description

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Indianapolis Zoo

The Indianapolis Zoo is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (Charity Number 35-1074747) that does not receive tax support and is governed by a board of trustees. It is accredited as a zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and the American Alliance of Museums. The Zoo is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Operations Coordinator - Encounters/Deserts

The Indianapolis Zoo is a leader in animal conservation and a top tourist destination in Indiana. Located on a 93-acre campus in downtown Indianapolis, it features animal exhibits, gardens, and an aquarium. The Zoo supports local and international conservation efforts. Candidates passionate about animal conservation, especially with experience in birds, reptiles, or amphibians, may qualify for the full-time Operations Coordinator of Encounters/Deserts position.

The ideal candidate is committed to the Zoo's mission to protect nature and inspire care for our world. Requirements include at least five (5) years of full-time experience working with birds, reptiles, or amphibians in a keeper capacity, and a four-year bachelor's degree in Life Sciences, Zoology, Animal Psychology, or a related field. The role involves training, scheduling, and working closely with the Assistant Curator to implement departmental training and assist with daily operations.

This is a full-time position (~40 hours/week), with variable shifts, including weekends and evenings. Holiday and overtime work may be required.

Working with animals requires specific skills and physical effort, including:

• Good observational skills and temperament suited for working with animals, especially bird species.
• Maintaining high husbandry standards, including diet preparation and cleaning exhibits.
• Monitoring animals and reporting issues to the supervisor.
• Knowledge of all areas within the Encounters department.
• Assisting with training, enrichment, restraining, and transferring animals.
• Responsibility for medical care of animals as directed.
• Coordinating with veterinarians for procedures and emergencies.
• Ensuring safety and security for animals, visitors, and staff.
• Handling daily operations as directed.
• Training and setting a good example for staff, seeking feedback.
• Valid Indiana driver's license or ability to obtain one within 30 days.
• Ability to perform heavy work, exerting at least 100 pounds of force occasionally and 50 pounds frequently.
• Ability to transport items and navigate uneven terrain.
• Good observational and communication skills, including the use of radios and phones.

To apply:

• Complete an online Zoo application.

Applicants must include a resumé, cover letter, and salary requirements. Benefits include health, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, 403(b) plan, PTO, paid holidays, free Zoo membership, and reciprocal benefits at other institutions.

Indianapolis Zoo
1200 W. Washington Street
Indianapolis, IN 46222
Phone: [phone]