ANIMAL KEEPER ZOO INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAM

Code: 00269@ Local Competitive

Official job specification

The text below is the official specification published by the New Jersey Civil Service Commission. The plain-language summary and analysis above are derived from it by NJ Civil Service Navigator. Source: the official specification page at NJ CSC.

Definition

Under direction, assists in planning and participates in instructional work involved with the care, feeding, transporting and display of the animals for exhibition; discusses the habits and habitat of the subject on display; does related work as required.

Examples of work

• Conducts scheduled programs which allow an assembled audience to eceive instruction regarding animals on display.
• Responsible for maintaining pens, cages, and other zoo areas neat and orderly as required.
• Conducts tours with selected animals to acquaint the public with the habits and habitat of the subject on display.
• Assists in composing and distributing notices publicizing the education and recreational programs of the zoo, particularly those on displays designed to interest children.
• Participates in lectures and complies information on the displays to provide data for factual and entertaining discussions.
• Participates in the training of animals for public performance.
• In accordance with established polices and procedures, performs duties in a manner suited to the maintenance of good public relations and the maximum protection of both the public and the animals.
• Maintains required records and submits clear and information reports.
• Will be required to learn to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units.

Experience

One (1) year experience in the care, handling, and exhibiting of animals in a zoological park, game or nature farm or other animal non-domesticated sanctuary.

License

Appointees will be required to possess a driver's license valid in New Jersey only if the operation of a vehicle, rather than employee mobility, is necessary to perform the essential duties of the position.

Knowledge, skills and abilities

• Knowledge of the care and feeding of animals. Including protection, handling, and display of young animals.
• Ability to lead discussions and conduct lectures for groups of children.
• Ability to keep necessary records and reports and to learn quickly from oral and written instructions.
• Ability to learn to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units.
• Ability to read, write, speak, understand, or communicate in English sufficiently to perform the duties of this position. American Sign Language or Braille may also be considered as acceptable forms of communication.
• Persons with mental or physical disabilities are eligible as long as they can perform the essential functions of the job after reasonable accommodation is made to their known limitations. If the accommodation cannot be made because it would cause the employer undue hardship, such persons may not be eligible.

Note

The examples of work for this title are for illustrative purposes only. A particular position using this title may not perform all duties listed in this job specification. Conversely, all duties performed on the job may not be listed