Animal Scientist jobs in Fort Myers, FL

Position Summary:

The Animal Registrar is primarily responsible for managing the institutional animal records and related policies. This includes overseeing and validating the quality of recorded data. This position, along with the Director of Animal Programs, will serve as a liaison to relevant government agencies regarding licensing and permitting.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Enter and audit animal records in institution databases and ensure the accuracy and validity of data.
• Serve as administrator and primary liaison for any animal record databases (Animal Care Software and Species 360).
• Follow established protocols and data standards for maintaining active and inactive animal records ensuring appropriate retention, preservation, and accessibility.
• Maintain an up-to-date animal inventory.
• Share relevant animal information with other zoological or government organizations as requested.
• Train staff in animal record keeping, records management, and data standards, and confirm daily reporting policies and procedures are followed.
• Assist in logistics of and preparation of paperwork required for the acquisition and disposition of collection animals ensuring timely coordination with veterinary and curatorial staff and other institutions.
• Acquire all local, federal, and state wildlife permits and licenses necessary for the acquisition and disposition of collection animals.
• Assist in ensuring legal compliance with local, state, federal, and international laws, government regulations, and industry-specific standards.
• Acquire and maintain all local, state, and federal permits and licenses. This includes renewals, annual reporting, and any new applications.
• Monitor animal loan agreements and produce loan update questionnaires on an annual basis.
• Participate in appropriate professional associations (e.g. Zoological Registrars Association) to ensure the level of professionalism in standards for animal records and information management is continually elevated.
• Attend meetings and offer input where necessary to the Director of Animal Programs and Animal Department Field Supervisors.
• Perform additional duties including some administrative functions for the Animal Department.
• Serve as a secretary for the Animal Welfare Committee and Safety Committee.
• Ensure compliance with any zoo-wide safety protocols and procedures, and bring forth any potential hazards for animals, staff, and/or visitors to the Director of Animal Programs.
• Identify and report any potential animal welfare issues to the Director of Animal Programs and Staff Veterinarian.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in an animal-related field is preferred. Prior work experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.
• Prior experience managing animal record keeping or related databases in a zoo or aquarium is preferred.
• Completion of AZA Institutional Records Keeping (IRK) course or Zoological Registrars Association Training Certification Program is preferred.
• Knowledge of Species 360 ZIMS and Animal Care Software record keeping system is preferred.
• Knowledge of zoological nomenclature and taxonomy is desired.
• Knowledge of regulatory standards (USDA, FWC, and AZA) is desired.
• Must have strong attention to detail.
• Must be a positive, effective team member and be able to establish and maintain professional working relationships.
• Must be self-motivated and goal-oriented.
• Must have good written and oral communication skills.
• Must be able to work with people from diverse backgrounds, views, and work styles.
• Must be able to work both independently and as a team.
• Must be able to adapt to a rapidly changing environment and maintain a positive attitude during times of stress.
• Must have the ability to work flexible hours, including weekdays, holidays, and special events as needed.
• Must be able to organize/prioritize workload to meet deadlines.
• Must be able to think logically and solve problems accordingly.
• Must be able to communicate with guests in a kind, courteous manner.
• Computer competency with Microsoft programs.

Physical requirements

• Ability to work outside in weather conditions typical of South Florida.
• Employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 35 pounds and occasionally lift and/move up to 65 pounds.
• Ability to frequently use hands for repetitive motion.
• Ability to walk short distances, balance, stoop, bend, kneel, and crouch.
• Ability for close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
• Ability to type on a computer keyboard.
• Ability to sit and work at a computer screen for extended periods.
• Ability to hear and talk and use a radio.
• Ability to drive a car and golf cart.

SPECIAL INFORMATION

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Compliance

Naples Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The ADA requires Naples Zoo to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with the Human Resources Office.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Naples Zoo is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive company culture, and our team does not discriminate against candidates and employees because of their disability, sex, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, veteran status, or any other protected status under the law.

Employee Eligible Benefits & Employment Benefits

Medical, Dental & Vision Health Coverage

Company paid Life Insurance policy of $25,000

Supplemental insurance plans available (disability, GAP, accident, critical care)

403B Retirement and Investment Opportunities

Accrued Paid Time Off

Tuition Reimbursement Program available

Holiday Premium Pay

Employee Referral Bonuses

Complimentary Zoo admission for employees and/or their families after 90 days of employment

Complimentary and discounted admissions to 100 Florida theme parks for employee and/or their families

30% Employee Discount at Naples Zoo Gift Shop & Zoo cafes