Wellbeing Coordinator

Pueblo Zoo

The Pueblo Zoo is a vibrant, collaborative, and flexible workplace. The Pueblo Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is home to nearly 220 animals representing more than 140 species. Driven by our mission to empower people to engage in conservation of animals and their natural habitat, we serve 100,000 annual visitors, provide educational outreach to tens of thousands of students, and directly support global species conservation.

Wellbeing Coordinator

Position Summary

The animal wellbeing coordinator works under the direction of the General Curator to manage the Zoo’s wellbeing program. This position is responsible for the implementation, assessments, and organization of the program. This position will provide leadership and mentorship for animal enrichment and training, as well as being a point person for research opportunities.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain welfare-based assessment and enrichment programs, create tools, forms and policies, to fulfill AZA and USDA standards.
• Act as the subject matter expert for animal welfare evaluations, quality of life monitoring, and evaluating data collection.
• Develop, implement and track action plans based on outcomes of wellbeing assessments across the living collection.
• Develop and ensure animal wellbeing assessments and action plans are being carried out.
• Oversee the implementation of the wellbeing program, including training and enrichment programs
• Ensure the Pueblo Zoo is in compliance with all AZA and USDA standards for animal welfare programs; review AZA and USDA standards regarding animal welfare programs annually; ensure keepers are following all policies, procedures and protocols regarding animal welfare assessments and that required assessments and records are completed correctly
• Assist with follow-up on welfare assessments and enrichment offered, with metrics, goals and improvement plans.
• Works with colleagues and other professionals to ensure wellbeing assessments are meeting or exceeding contemporary industry standards
• Advances the quality and consistency of trained behaviors and enrichment provisions to ensure goals and priorities are being met; provide feedback to animal care staff on a regular basis.
• Performs rounds in animal areas with the goal of coaching, monitoring, and evaluating training, enrichment, and wellbeing in the animal care department.
• Leads workshops, builds, and discussions to advance the team's knowledge and expertise in wellbeing, training, and enrichment.
• Update and organize Zoo Monitor program.
• Participate in the design and planning of new habitats as well as improvements on existing habitat and facilities from a behavioral and guest experience viewpoint. 
• Maintain detailed records.
• Work collaboratively with the animal care team and curator to identify and mitigate behavioral concerns.  
• Assist staff to acquire, design and build enrichment devices.
• Assist on the Pueblo Zoos’ Animal Use and Care committee.

Experience Required

Education and Experience ● Bachelor’s degree in zoological science, animal behavior, or related fields ● Three years’ experience working with/training animals in a zoological setting OR, an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job. ● Demonstrated experience in using positive reinforcement techniques to train animals and behavioral enrichment for animal care related issues. Knowledge, Skill, and Abilities ● Ability to accurately prepare and maintain records, files, and reports. ● Ability to provide coaching, advice, and assistance as required. ● Ability to express ideas clearly, concisely, both verbally and in writing. ● Must have strong leadership skills, desire to engage others and enhance their skills in animal care and welfare. ● Knowledge with AZA accreditation standards, code of ethics, and current industry behavioral husbandry practices. ● Keen attention to detail for maintaining accurate written records. ● Strong organizational skills. ● Must have strong organizational, observational, and listening skills.

Further Comments

This position is full time - 32-36 hours per week

Perks

Competitive benefits package including HMO and HSA-qualified health plans, a 3% employer matched SIMPLE IRA, paid time off, sick time, eight holidays, six sick days, and a commitment to flexible work schedules and professional development.

Salary

$36,400

How to Apply

Submit resume and cover letter to jobs@pueblozoo.org

Pueblo Zoo
3455 Nuckolls Ave
Pueblo, CO 81005
Phone: 7195611452

Useful link(s) for this job

• http://www.pueblozoo.org
• click apply button below