SENIOR ANIMAL KEEPER
Senior Animal Keeper sits in the competitive class of New Jersey's local-government civil service, so reaching it runs through testing and an eligible list instead of a straight hire.
It asks for 2 years of relevant experience.
How to apply
This title is filled by competitive examination.
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How to apply for this title →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, takes the lead over a small group of employees engaged in feeding and caring for mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians according to established procedures; maintains cages, pens, paddocks and other areas; performs related work as required.
Examples of work
- Works with and takes the lead over assigned personnel in a scheduled program designed to ensure prompt feeding and proper care of all mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians in a zoo.
- Reports any mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians that appear to be sick or in pain.
- Keeps assigned animals clean and sees that they are properly housed.
- Carries out regular daily maintenance program involved in keeping cages, pens, paddocks and animal areas clean and in good repair.
- Performs minor repairs to animal displays and exhibits.
- Enforces established zoo regulations relating to protection of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians to ensure their protection and the public's safety.
- 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
Two years of experience in the care and feeding of non-domesticated animals in a zoological park, game or nature farm or other animal sanctuary.
Knowledge, skills and abilities
- Knowledge of the methods used in the care and feeding of animals.
- Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
- Ability to work harmoniously with co-workers, and to provide guidance and instructions to staff.
- Ability to care for and feed non-domesticated, confined animals.
- Ability to provide guidance and instructions to staff.
- Ability to maintain records and prepare reports.
- Ability 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, and communicate in English sufficiently to perform 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 essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation. If the accommodation cannot be made because it would cause the employer undue hardship, such persons may not be eligible.