Temporary Domestic Animal Attendant

Detroit Zoo; Royal Oak (MI); On-site; USD 17,000 - 22,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare benefits

Paid time off

Detroit Zoo membership

Discounts on in-park merchandise

Job summary

The Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) is seeking a Temporary Domestic Animal Attendant to support the goat contact yard and chicken coop at the Detroit Zoo. This part-time temporary role involves interacting with guests, assisting zookeepers, and maintaining animal enclosures in a safe, educational environment.

Ideal candidates will have a high school degree, comfort with animals and guests, and the ability to work flexible hours including weekends and evenings for events.

Qualifications

• High School degree (or equivalent) required.
• Preference for coursework in education or biological sciences.
• Experience in a contact animal setting preferred.
• Experience working with children is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist in maintaining goat yard and chicken coop.
• Interact with and supervise guests in the goat contact area.
• Work closely with zookeepers and volunteers to ensure safety of animals and guests.
• Alert zookeepers of animal behavioral changes or health concerns noticed by self or guests.
• May assist zookeepers with additional animal procedures and tasks.
• Performs various tasks and other duties as assigned.

Skills

Customer service

Guest interaction

Communication

Safety awareness

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

The Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) is a nonprofit organization operating the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Center. Together, our team makes a significant impact, and every role is essential to move our mission forward. Employees are exposed to an atmosphere like no other. Our unmatched scenery will brighten your day as you make a difference for people, animals and the natural world.

Are you passionate about customer service and igniting positive change? Join our guest relations team! Applicants will be contacted by a hiring manager with details about the available positions and group interview dates.

Position: Temporary Domestic Animal Attendant

Location: Detroit Zoo

8450 W. 10 Mile Rd.

Royal Oak, MI

Job Id:748

# of Openings:1

Temporary Domestic Animal Attendant

General Description

Works under general supervision on the goat contact yard and chicken coop in the Discovery Trails area. This is a part-time temporary position.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

• Assists in maintaining goat yard/chicken coop, including basic husbandry, maintenance and cleaning.
• Interacts with and supervises guests entering the goat contact area.
• Works closely with zookeepers and volunteers to ensure safety of animals and guests.
• Alerts zookeepers of animal behavioral changes or health concerns noticed by self or guests.
• May assist zookeepers with additional animal procedures and tasks.
• Performs various tasks and other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Ability to work in a contact animal situation with animals that may kick or bite.
• Comfort with working with guests including children.
• Ability to clearly communicate in written and verbal formats.
• Ability to read and understand written and oral instructions.
• Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers and zoo guests.
• Ability to foster positive interactions with guests in a manner that is educational, inclusive and supports the DZS mission.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• High School degree (or equivalent) with preference for college coursework in education or biological sciences.
• Experience in a contact animal situation preferred. Experience working with children is preferred.

Additional Requirements

• Ability to work a flexible schedule, weekends, on holidays, and evenings for special events will be necessary at times. Will need to have the ability to work onsite in inclement weather.
• Valid driver's license with good driving record is preferable.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to move on frequent basis up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to remain on feet for long periods.
• Ability to bend, move, position and ascend.
• Ability to operate and safely drive electric carts.
• No allergy to plants or animals that may interfere with the ability to work.
• Ability to work in all weather conditions

Just as we value and celebrate biodiversity, the DZS celebrates the diversity of our human community. We are committed to ensuring that our programs and facilities are fully accessible to create a welcoming and inclusive workplace for all.

Service Systems Associates (SSA) - the exclusive service provider for Detroit Zoo concessions, retail, grounds keeping, and custodial positions - is seeking individuals for the following positions:

• Concessions
• Retail Cashier
• Grounds and Janitorial

For information on Service Systems Associates employment opportunities, call the SSA Employment Hotline at [phone] .

The Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Center are located in the heart of metro Detroit. With no shortage of cultural, arts and community spaces, a thriving dining and entertainment scene and award-winning school districts close by, you are sure to find your home here.

Perks and Benefits

Working at the DZS has its perks! Not only will you join a passionate team that takes pride in conservation, sustainability, and animal well-being, but you will also enjoy a competitive and robust benefits package.

Full-Time

• 401(k) match plan
• Medical, prescription, vision and dental insurance*
• Short and long term disability plan
• Life insurance programs
• Flexible spending
• Employee assistance program
• Paid time off accrual
• Referral and retention bonuses
• Detroit Zoo membership and guest tickets
• In-park merchandise and food discounts
• Event and program discounts

*eligible after qualifying period

Part-Time

• 401(k) match plan*
• Medical, prescription, vision and dental insurance*
• Short and long term disability plan
• Life insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Paid time off accrual
• Referral and retention bonuses
• Detroit Zoo membership and guest
• tickets
• In-park merchandise and food discounts
• Event and program discounts

*eligible after qualifying preliminary period

Seasonal Part-Time

• 401(k) match plan*
• Medical, prescription, vision and dental insurance*
• Employee assistance program
• Referral and retention bonuses
• Detroit Zoo membership and guest tickets
• In-park merchandise and food discounts
• Event and program discounts

*eligible after qualifying preliminary period

FAQs

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The DZS is an equal-opportunity employer, and we are committed to diversity in our workforce.

We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse screening.