Seasonal Animal Care and Environmental Education Assistant

The University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 16,531 - 22,041; Part time

Job summary

The University of Georgia is seeking a Seasonal Animal Care and Environmental Education Assistant for the Mary Kahrs Warnell Forest Education Center in Guyton, GA. This 0.25 FTE, summer position involves caring for live reptiles and amphibians and leading Environmental education programs for K-12 students.

Responsibilities include facility upkeep, trails, and clerical tasks, with occasional light lifting. A 2-year degree or professional certificate is preferred, and experience with educational

Qualifications

• Technical knowledge in the field acquired through an apprenticeship, a 2-year degree, or professional certificate.
• Ability to work with live teaching animals (reptiles and amphibians).
• Ability to perform cleaning duties (sweeping, mopping, window washing, dusting, restroom upkeep).
• Ability to communicate effectively with youth and adults and have a willingness to learn educational content.

Responsibilities

• Animal care husbandry and maintenance for residential education reptiles and amphibians. (50% of time)
• Independently lead educational programs, including live animal educational programs, related to forestry and natural resources for grade levels K-12 and other community outreach programs. (30% of time)
• General support of overall center operations including upkeep of educational center and trails, educational materials, and projects as needed. (20% of time)
• General cleaning duties such as sweeping, mopping, window washing, dusting, and restroom upkeep.
• Perform light to moderate outdoor activities such as trail clearing and occasional light lifting up to 30 lbs.

Skills

Animal care

Independent work

Communication

Cleaning duties

Education

2-year degree or professional certificate

Job description

Posting Number: G/R29433P

Working Title: Seasonal Animal Care and Environmental Education Assistant

Department: Warnell-Sch Forestry & Nat Res

Employment Type: Employee

Anticipated Start Date: 05/26/2025

Open Until Filled: Yes

Location of Vacancy: SE District

Position Summary: The Seasonal Animal Care and Environmental Education Assistant position is a part‑time role over the summer with a commitment of up to 10 hours per week. The primary responsibilities include animal care of live reptiles and amphibians and independently leading Environmental education classes for K‑12 grade students. Additional duties include general facility cleaning, light maintenance of grounds and trails, as well as various office and clerical tasks at the Mary Kahrs Warnell Forest Education Center in Guyton, GA (Effingham County).

Responsibilities

• Animal care husbandry and maintenance for residential education reptiles and amphibians. (50% of time)
• Independently lead educational programs, including live animal educational programs, related to forestry and natural resources for grade levels K‑12 and other community outreach programs. (30% of time)
• General support of overall center operations including upkeep of educational center and trails, educational materials, and projects as needed. (20% of time)
• General cleaning duties such as sweeping, mopping, window washing, dusting, and restroom upkeep.
• Perform light to moderate outdoor activities such as trail clearing and occasional light lifting up to 30 lbs.

Qualifications

Relevant/Preferred education, experience, licensure, certification: Technical knowledge in the field acquired through an apprenticeship, a 2‑year degree, or professional certificate.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies:

• Ability to work with and care for live teaching animals (reptiles and amphibians).
• Ability to perform routine cleaning duties such as sweeping, mopping, window washing, dusting, and restroom upkeep.
• Ability to work independently, with minimal supervision.
• Ability to communicate effectively with youth and adults and have a willingness to learn educational content.

Physical Demands

Perform general cleaning duties such as sweeping and mopping, light to moderate outdoor activities, such as trail clearing. Occasional light lifting up to 30 lbs.

Classification and Administrative Information

Classification Title: Temporary Technical Paraprofessional

FLSA: Non-Exempt

FTE: 0.25

EEO Statement

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR [e-mail].

USG Core Values Statement

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 08.02.18.01.02. Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 06.05 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom.

Background Investigation Policy

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including a criminal background check, reference checks, and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. Applicants may also be subject to a pre‑employment drug test for positions with high‑risk responsibilities if applicable. Please visit UGA Background Check website.

Contact Details

Recruitment Contact Name: Nicholas Fuhrman

Recruitment Contact Email: [e-mail]