Seasonal Browse Worker (6 Months)

Philadelphia Zoo - Seasonal; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a passionate team at a historic zoo, where you will play a vital role in caring for animals through the collection and processing of browse. This position offers a unique opportunity to work outdoors, contributing to the well-being of exotic animals while honing your gardening skills. With a focus on teamwork and environmental stewardship, you will thrive in a dynamic setting that values dedication and respect for nature. Enjoy competitive pay and a family membership pass that brings you closer to the wonders of wildlife. If you're ready to make a difference and embrace the outdoors, this role is perfect for you.

Benefits

Competitive Pay

Family Membership Pass with Complimentary Tickets

Qualifications

• Must be willing to work outside and in adverse environmental conditions.
• Gardening/horticulture experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the care and harvesting of browse at the browse farm.
• Process browse for Zoo animals and assist with sampling.

Skills

Gardening/Horticulture Experience

Teamwork

Effective Listening

Ability to Work in Adverse Conditions

Education

Valid Driver's License

Tools

Gardening Equipment

Job description

Who We Are:

Philadelphia Zoo works to fulfill our mission as an animal care organization, as a resource to schools and families, and as an ark and advocate for endangered animals around the world.

What makes the Zoo a unique place to work? Whether you are involved with caring for animals, educating our visitors or working in a behind-the-scenes position in administration, maintenance or garden services, all of our positions share our institutional mission, purpose, and core values.

Who We Are Looking For:

At the Philadelphia Zoo, “browse” (leafy greens, woody plants, and flowers) is fed out as part of animals’ formulated diets. Browse is an important element in the diet of exotic animals because it adds much needed structural fiber, as well as protein, fat, vitamins and minerals. Under the direction of the Nutrition Operations Manager, the Browse Worker aids with the collection and processing of browse.

What You Will Do:

• Assist with the care and harvesting of browse at the browse farm.
• Harvest browse for Zoo animals.
• Process browse for Zoo animals.
• Assist with the sampling of browse for yearly analysis.
• Other duties as assigned.

Schedule:

• Work week is Monday through Friday. Saturday/Sunday off.
• Please be aware that hours vary from day to day in accordance with deliveries and workload - start time usually set at 9 am and browse workers stay until daily projects are finished (average end time of between 3:00 and 5:00, may be less or more).
• Employees get National Holidays off.
• Days off and Holidays are without pay.

What This Role Requires:

• Must be willing to work outside for the duration of the work day.
• Must have the ability and be willing to work in adverse environmental conditions (hot, humid, and/or cold weather, rain/snow, insects, noxious plants, etc.).
• Must have the ability and be willing to use various gardening equipment.
• Must be willing to take precautions to protect oneself against adverse environmental conditions (wear long sleeve shirts and long pants, socks, protective gloves, use insect repellent, etc.).
• Gardening/horticulture experience is preferred.
• Must be willing to work in a team environment.
• Must be able to lift and carry 45 lbs. easily.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.
• Workers must have a negative TB test prior to the start of work.

Traits That We Are Looking For:

1. High EQ
2. Effective Listener
3. Respectful, fair and tactful
4. Curious and continuous learner
5. Collective under pressure

What We Can Offer You:

• Competitive Pay – We recognize talent and we pay to keep it.
• Family membership pass with complimentary tickets – (Warning: You will become a celebrity amongst your friends once they hear you work for America’s 1st Zoo).