Biologist II

DESCRIPTION 

A Biologist II performs all relevant responsibilities in the department with minimal curator supervision including, but not limited to, maintaining department protocols, adhering to policies and fulfilling daily responsibilities concerning the care and maintenance of the animal collection and other duties as assigned.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Animal Care

• Maintain current knowledge of all specimens under their care, their natural history and husbandry requirements.
• Perform daily checks and observations.
• Prepare appropriate diets and maintain supplement schedule for assigned tanks.
• Maintain appropriate system and animal records.
• Administer approved medications according to standards and the prescriptions issued by veterinarians.
• Perform animal moves as directed.
• Handle program animals for events and encounters.
• Assist in the capture and restraint of animals for transfer and veterinary exams.
• Work with curators and senior biologists to address any water quality issues.
• Perform established enrichment programs.
• Understand the principles of operant conditioning and perform established training programs.

Facility Maintenance

• Maintain cleanliness and supply stocking of assigned back of house area and assist with cleaning of other back of house areas.
• Report supply needs to curators for ordering.
• Perform routine maintenance on water quality equipment.
• Perform routine maintenance on all aquatic life support equipment (clean filter baskets, perform backwashes, etc. as needed.
• Maintain excellent aesthetic in assigned exhibits.

Communication

• Provide daily guest presentations.
• Communicate safety and health concerns to curators.
• Communicate problems with animals and exhibits to curators.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor's Degree with major course work in Biology, Zoology or related field preferred. Must have at least two years relevant experience, preferably with an AZA accredited institution. Experience with fish, elasmobranchs, invertebrates, reptiles and amphibians preferred. Must have working knowledge of life support systems, animal husbandry, disease prevention, treatment and control and animal rearing techniques. Must have minimum open water SCUBA certification. Must have valid driver’s license and ability to pass background check and drug screen. Must be self-motivated, with high desire to provide the best care available to animals. Must be observant and successfully communicate with curators and coworkers. Must work with other employees and departments in a respectful manner.

WORK CONDITIONS

Subject to possibility of animal bites and stings. Extensive work in water. Heavy lifting, walking and working within a wet environment, extensive ladder and stair use. Outdoor work on occasion, under variety of conditions: cold weather, hot weather, rain, and aquatic environments. Availability for holidays, weekends, and after hours work, outside of regular schedule.