Facility
Alexandria Zoological Park
Closing Date
[jobclosingdate]
Description
Examination is announced to establish an employment list to fill 1 vacancy in the Zoo department and future vacancies as they occur to promote conservation of wildlife and the mission of the City of Alexandria Zoo by developing educational programs, special events, and volunteer opportunities at the Zoo. Work is performed under the supervision of the Zoo Director.
Representative Tasks: The list is intended to be representative of the tasks performed. Any one position or incumbent does not necessarily perform all of these tasks; other duties may be required and assigned.
Develops, conducts, and evaluates educational programs, as well as conservation and research projects. Creates detailed lesson plans, incorporating assigned environmental and conservation standards. Represents the Zoo to the public and performs outreach through TV and radio appearances, tourism promotions, school visits, public events and other activities. Recruits, trains, and manages volunteers; promotes safety procedures in animal care and handling; coordinates work schedules; assists with staff training. Oversees preparation of promotional and educational materials; works closely with the Media Specialist to design and produce public service announcements, news releases and similar materials. Assists with planning and executing special events; coordinates with Friends of the Alexandria Zoo (FOTAZ). Assists with preparation for AZA accreditation, prepares reports per AZA guidelines. Assists in preparing departmental budget; produces required reports.
Responsibility: Works closely with FOTAZ to provide educational programming, volunteer opportunities, and special events; may work independently to achieve objectives, as necessary. Serves as Ambassador for the Zoo and focuses on measures which enhance accreditation efforts.
Difficulty: Position involves challenges in working with volunteers in a public sector environment and working with animals/wildlife. Requires some evening, weekend and holiday hours for special events or as necessary.
Working Conditions: Tasks regularly performed with some exposure to adverse environmental conditions, such as dirt, dust, odors, temperature and noise extremes, plants and animals, with potential for animal/wildlife attacks or bites.
Performance Measures: Zoo educational programs are developed and conducted per guidelines; volunteers are managed appropriately.
Education and Pre-requisites
• Associate’s degree in Zoology or related field required, Bachelor’s degree in Zoology or related field preferred; supplemented by two (2) years of experience in educational programming in a zoo, wildlife reserve or similar facility, or related field; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license.
• Will be required to obtain a valid Louisiana driver’s license at time of appointment and maintain throughout employment.
Work Hours:
Tues – Saturday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
Must have flexibility to work weekends, holidays, and evenings as needed
Physical Essential Functions: Exerts moderate physical effort, with prolonged standing and/or walking, regular lifting and carrying of materials or animals 20-50 pounds. Vision, hearing, and speaking within normal limits are necessary.
This examination may consist of a written test, a rating of training and experience, a performance test or any combination thereof deemed necessary to adequately screen and rank applicants. Examination notices will be sent out via email if one is provided on the application, otherwise, acceptable applicants will receive a letter in the mail with a testing date, time, and location. Applicants must supply complete and accurate information concerning their previous training and experience including a detailed description of their work experience, the names and addresses of all previous employers and the dates of employment. The information is subject to verification.
Compensation and benefits
Range: $35,285.00 – 42,342.00
Application instructions
Must include copies of driver’s license, diploma, GED, DD214, degree, etc. with application.
Accepting applications: January 23 – February 6, 2017
Applications may be obtained from the Civil Service Office:
625 Murray Street, 3rd Floor, Alexandria, LA 71301 or downloaded from the city’s website: www.cityofalexandriala.com.
Ph. (318)449-5077/Fax (318)449-5232/Email: civilservice@cityofalex.com
The City of Alexandria is an Equal Opportunity Employer.