Facility
Turtle Survival Center (Turtle Survival Alliance)
Closing Date
[jobclosingdate]
Description
Job Description
The Turtle Survival Alliance works globally to conserve tortoises and freshwater turtles. With programs and projects in Belize, Colombia, Madagascar, and throughout Asia, the Turtle Survival Alliance (TSA) transforms passion for turtles into effective conservation action with a goal of zero turtle extinctions in the 21st Century.
Position Summary:
The primary purpose of this position is to provide day to day animal husbandry and to implement all policies and procedures associated with the living animal collection at the Turtle Survival Center (TSC) in Cross, South Carolina. This position has the secondary responsibilities of assistance with horticulture, and general facility maintenance of the TSC. This position reports to the Facilities Manager/ Lead Keeper (FM).
Primary responsibilities:
• Provide high standards of animal husbandry to a diverse group of critically endangered chelonians.
• Provide husbandry coverage to non-primary areas of responsibility as required (i.e; vacations, illness, days off).
• Open/close all areas (Primary and Secondary) at the TSC per policies and procedures in SOP
• Monitor animal health.
• Keep accurate animal records, including using the TRACKS database.
• Maintain cleanliness of animal areas.
• Assistance with the establishment of and the implementation of effective quarantine protocols to reduce the risk of disease transmission within the collection.
• Propagate chelonians, including egg care and incubation.
• Assist with veterinary care procedures as needed.
• Perform basic animal medical treatments as needed.
• General maintenance of facilities, upkeep of grounds and buildings.
• Basic construction duties including plumbing, carpentry, and masonry.
• Horticulture, particularly in animal areas.
• Interact with interns, volunteers, students, visiting biologists, and guests.
• Help to ensure security of the facility by adhering to best practices and security guidelines as they are developed and implemented.
• Other duties as assigned.
• Good communication skills are essential for this position. Responsibilities include:
• Communicating effectively with co-workers to address problems that may arise in a timely manner.
• Representing the Turtle Survival Alliance at volunteer and outreach events as needed.
Education and Pre-requisites
• Bachelor’s degree in biology, zoology, or other related field. (Experience may be substituted for degree).
• At least 2 years of experience with a diverse assemblage chelonian species.
• Preference given to those with experience in construction.
• Self-disciplined, highly motivated personality able to work independently as well as part of a team.
• Ability to operate small to moderate machinery (mowers, chainsaws, tractor, etc.) while maintaining a safe environment for themselves and others.
• Currently hold a valid state driver’s license with reliable transportation.
• Must be able to work in a hot, humid climate for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to accommodate a varying schedule with flexibility in mind.
Compensation and benefits
Not specified.
Application instructions
To apply, please send a Curriculum Vitae and a cover letter including salary expectations to nhaislip@turtlesurvival.org. Deadline to apply is Monday, February 19th.