Zoological Care Specialist I​/II​/III - Part Time Asia ; Primates

Fresno Chaffee Zoo Zoological Care Specialist I/II/III – Part Time (Asia Central – Primates)

GENERAL PURPOSE
Under the supervision of the Zoological Animal Manager, this position is responsible for the daily well‑being of animals in the assigned section. The role maintains high standards of animal care while working in a team‑oriented environment that requires collaboration and problem‑solving to achieve the Zoo’s strategic goals and provide an excellent guest experience.

This position will be assigned to our Asia Central team, providing excellent animal care to a variety of carnivores and primates, including lions and orangutans, and may be reassigned or requested to work in other sections as needed at the discretion of the Animal Management team. The team also provides care for animals in the new Kingdoms of Asia exhibit including sloth bears, otters, and Malaysian tigers.

Prior experience with current orangutan husbandry and training would be beneficial to the successful candidate.

We are pleased to offer this part‑time position an Employee Assistance Program, 401K, Paid CA Sick Time earned on an accrued basis. The pay range for this position is $17.78 – $26.10 per hour, offers based on experience.

• Prepares and administers appropriate daily diets at designated times; ensures animals have sufficient water refreshed regularly.
• Implements effective behavioral enrichment for selected animals.
• Observes animals’ behavior, checks for signs of illness or disorder, and reports irregularities and abnormal behavior to supervisor.
• Maintains accurate feeding, health, and welfare records of assigned animals using Microsoft programs (Excel, Word, Teams), Species 360 (ZIMS), and TRACKS.
• Thoroughly cleans and disinfects assigned animal enclosures and ensures cleanliness throughout the day.
• Assists with training animals in designated section and assists hospital staff in all aspects of animal treatment, including medication preparation and administration.
• Assists the Emergency Response team in animal events.
• Watches for and reports any vandalism, unsafe work conditions, or animal welfare concerns.
• Assists with crating and moving animals under guidance of a qualified ZCS I, II, or III, unless approved by a manager.
• Participates in guest presentations such as animal chats or training demonstrations.
• Completes daily tasks, projects, and goals within an assigned time frame while maintaining satisfactory standards.
• Adheres to organizational protocols, procedures, and policies.
• Utilizes computer, telephone, and radio systems to communicate and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Safely operates a vehicle for business purposes, including travel to and from the zoo and off‑site locations.
• Performs additional responsibilities as assigned to support the team and organizational goals.

• Effectively trains animals within the section on established behaviors according to zoo policies and procedures, under guidance of ZCS II or III.
• Crates and moves animals as directed, ensuring safety.
• Provides training and guidance to lower‑tiered ZCS I specialists and volunteers under manager supervision.
• Observes animals’ behavior, reports irregularities, and works with vet staff to address observed behaviors.
• Completes animal welfare assessments under guidance of ZCS II or III as assigned by manager.
• Adheres to protocols, procedures, and policies while maintaining an open mind for continuous improvement.

• Effectively trains animals within the section according to zoo policies and procedures.
• Observes animals’ behavior, reports irregularities, and works with vet staff to address observed behaviors.
• Completes animal welfare assessments assigned by manager and works with the team to solve welfare concerns.
• Exercises good judgment affecting the animal population.
• Proactively identifies potential risks and applies best practices to prevent incidents and promote safety.
• Provides training and guidance to lower‑tiered ZCS I specialists and volunteers.
• Develops and maintains positive relationships with all departments, promoting a supportive team environment.
• Communicates effectively in high‑pressure situations and resolves…