A Guide to Careers at t od3sknjee09wa7y.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Career_… · Careers at t he Zo. o WORKING ON THE . WILDSIDE. Dear Student, ... “How do I become

A Guide to Careers at t he Zo o

WORKING ON THE WILDSIDE

Dear Student,

As you get ready to begin your career, we want to help you get a great start! Many of you contact the Seneca Park Zoo each year asking questions like, “How do I become a veterinarian? or “How can I get a job working with the animals?” or “What kinds of jobs are there at the Zoo?”

We put this guide together to help you find the answers to these questions and give you information about where to go next.

Working on the Wild Side: A Guide to Careers at the Zoo gives you profiles of many different jobs. It also gives you a list of resources to go to for even more information. One of the most important sections of this guide is called “How can I get involved?” This section tells you about all the ways you can get involved right here at the Seneca Park Zoo. Volunteering at a zoo is one of the best ways to get experience and to learn whether working in a zoo is what you really want to do. Who knows? You could be the next great Zoo Director or the next great lion scientist!

Whatever your hopes and dreams ... remember, the Education Department is always here to help you. Feel free to write us an e-mail ([email protected]) or call (585-336-7213) with any questions.

Best Wishes with your Career Search,The Seneca Park Zoo Education Department

INDEX

Directors: Who leads the zoo to new heights and keeps things running smoothly? There are a few ways to organize the operations of a zoo. Some zoos are run by the government, like a county or a city; some zoos are run by a non-profit organization, like a society or a “Friends of” group and some zoos, like the Seneca Park Zoo, have a shared organizational structure.

Executive Director of the Zoo Society ……………………………………………………………........………..………… Page 5 Zoo Director …………………………………………………………………….…………………………………….…….........…..……… Page 6

Animal Care: Who takes care of the animals?Assistant Zoo Director .............................……………………………………………………………........………..………… Page 7General Curator ……………………………………………………………………………………………………........………..………… Page 8Veterinarian ………………………………………………………………………………………………….......…........………..………… Page 9 Veterinarian Technician ………………………………….…………………………………………………........………..………… Page 10Zoo Keeper ..........................……………………………..……………………………………………………........………..………… Page 11

Business Operations: Who watches the budget and makes sure that bills are paid?Associate Director .............................……………………………………………………………........……........…..………… Page 12 Accountant/Finance Coordinator .............................…..……………………………………........………..………… Page 13 Data Manager .............................................……………………………………………………………........………..………… Page 14

Communications: Who informs the public about the zoo and its programs?Communications Director ...........................................…..……………………………………........………..……….. Page 15 Group Sales Coordinator .............................…..……………………………………..............................…..……….. Page 16 Office Manager and Receptionist …………………………….............................…………………........…..……….. Page 17 Public Relations and Marketing Coordinator ………………….………………………………….......…........….. Page 18 Volunteer Coordinator ……………………………………………………………......…......................................………… Page 19

Education: Who helps the public learn about the animals and the environment?Director of Education and Interpretation ………………………….................…..…………………………....…… Page 20 Education Animal Trainer ……………….........................…..……………………………………........………..………… Page 21 Education Programs Coordinator ……………………………....……………………………………........………..…….… Page 22 Educator ……....................................................................…..……………………………………........………..………… Page 23

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Executive Director of Zoo Society Duties:• Directs the non-profit partner of the zoo, which includes overseeing admissions, business operations, development, education, food service, fundraising, public relations, membership, marketing and visitor services.• Implements protocols and procedures for the zoo.

Experience/Education:

• Must be able to manage and motivate people.• Marketing and fundraising skills are needed.• Bachelor’s degree and several years of managerial experience is necessary.• Master’s degree is beneficial and usually preferred.

DIRECTORSINDEX CONTINUED

Facilities: Who keeps the zoo grounds looking good and working well?Supervisor of Facilities and Grounds .......................………………………….................…..……………......… Page 24 Gardener ………………………….................…..………………….............................................................………....…. Page 25 Life Support Technician ………………………………………………………….................…..…………………………....…. Page 26 Maintenance Worker ………………………………………..…………………….................…..…………………………....…. Page 27 Security Guard ………………………………………………………………………….................…..…………………………....….. Page 28

Fundraising and Development: Who raises funds for programs?Director of Development ……………………………..………………………….................…..…………………………....…. Page 29Events Coordinator ………………………………………………………………….................…..…………………………....….. Page 30 Grant Writer …………………………………….................……………………….................…..…………………………....…… Page 31

Guest Service: Who welcomes and serves the visitors?Director of Guest Services ……………………………..……………………….................…..…………………………........ Page 32Food Service Manager …………………………………….……………………….................…..…………………………....….. Page 33 Membership Coordinator …………………………….…..…………………….................…..…………………………....…. Page 34 Guest Service Host …………………………………………..…………………….................…..……………………..……....…. Page 35 ZooShop Manager ……………………………………….....……………………….................…..…………………………....….. Page 36

Where do I go from here?How can I get involved? ....................................……………………….................…..……………..…………....…… Page 37Resources and information …………………...........……………………….................…..…………………………...…… Page 38

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Zoo Director Duties:• Oversees aspects of operations at the zoo.• Helps create and organize new exhibits and programs.


• Many years of management experience at a zoo is required.• Background work as a zoo keeper is beneficial. • Bachelor’s degree in biology, zoology or a related field is required.

DIRECTORS ANIMAL CARE

Assistant Zoo Director Duties:• Assists with management of the zoo.• Supervises and directs animal management.• Implements protocols and procedures for the zoo.


• Must have a passion for education, conservation and animals.• Experience in the zoo field with animals is important. • Bachelor’s degree in biology, zoology or a related field is necessary.

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ANIMAL CARE

General Curator Duties:• Oversees the animal collection and manages animal records.• Runs daily animal care operations and supervises the zoo keepers.• Works with the various departments to improve exhibits and ensure animal health and visitor interests.


• A background of working with animals is necessary.• Must be able to manage and work with diverse groups of people. • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in biology, zoology, animal behavior or a related field • Experience in the zoo world is necessary.

ANIMAL CARE

Veterinarian Duties:• Responsible for the health of all the animals.• Provides emergency and preventative care for animals.• Supervises the health care staff.


• Experience in working with exotic animals is necessary.• Needs to attain DVM (Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine) from a school accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association.

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ANIMAL CARE

Veterinary Technician Duties:• Aids the Veterinarian in the medical care of sick animals and preventive care for the rest.• Maintains animal health, pharmacy and lab records.


• Must be comfortable/confident helping to assist when animals are sick or injured.• Experience in working with exotic animals is preferred.• Needs to attend a two-year accredited Veterinarian Technician school and pass the exam.

ANIMAL CARE

Zoo Keeper Duties:• Takes care of animals by feeding them and cleaning their enclosures.• May specialize in a few types of animals and provide enrichment for them.• Train animals to do behaviors that encourage the use of the animal’s adaptations and promote health, along with making medical checks easier.


• Must enjoy working closely with animals.• Organizational skills are necessary.• Experience in caring for animals is important.• Bachelor’s degree in biology or a related field is preferred.

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BUSINESS OPERATIONS

Associate Director Duties:• Supervises the business operations at the zoo.• Supports staff with questions about health benefits, vacations and overtime.• Works with staff members who are having work-related problems or difficulties.


• Must be able to manage and work with diverse groups of people.• Accounting and human resource skills are necessary.• Bachelor’s degree preferably in business, and personnel skills, is necessary.

BUSINESS OPERATIONS

Accountant/Finance Coordinator Duties:• Verifies and analyzes information input into the accounting system.• Coordinates and performs daily accounting function.• Summarizes and processes employee payroll and maintains time-off records.


• Must enjoy working with numbers, be proficient in math, organized and detail-oriented.• Good analytical and problem solving skills are important.• Competency in accounting softcare.• Previous book-keeping or accounting experience is preferred.• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, business or a related field is required.

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BUSINESS OPERATIONS

Data Manager Duties:• Enters and reports gift and mailing information.• Maintains the database, register system and Web site.


• Must be able to work efficiently with computers.• Must work well with others.• Needs to have experience with computer science and finance.• Bachelor’s degree in accounting and IT experience is necessary.

COMMUNICATIONS

Communications Director Duties:• Keeps the media and public informed about zoo events and news.• Produces the Zoo’s member magazine and maintains the Web site.

• Researches and implements marketing campaigns.• Produces fliers, labels, ads and other graphic materials.


• Must have great public relations skills.• Knowledge of radio, television and social media outlets is preferred.• Bachelor’s degree in communication/journalism, public relations or a related field is required.

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COMMUNICATIONS COMMUNICATIONS

Group Sales Coordinator Duties:• In charge of selling and generating more group sales for the zoo.• Promotes group sales to corporations, businesses, sport teams, etc.• Actively helps in the creation of group packages for bulk sales.


• Must have great organizational and communication skills.• Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, public relations or a related field is required.

Office Manager and Receptionist Duties:• Office managers work in all departments at the zoo.• Reserves programs for customers, answers phones and makes sure the office runs smoothly.• Helps the Director with meetings and reports.• Manages office expenses.


• Needs to have experience with computer software.• Must be organized and knowledgeable about what happens within his/her department.• Good customer service skills are necessary.• Must have an administrative background and accounting experience.

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COMMUNICATIONS

Volunteer Coordinator Duties:• Recruits volunteers for events.• Maintains contact between the zoo and its volunteers.


• Should be comfortable with public speaking and be able to multi-task.• B.A. in English, public relations, communications or a related field is necessary.

Public Relations and Marketing Coordinator Duties:• Manages the Zoo’s social media, including Facebook, blogs and eBlasts.• Captures photos of people enjoying the Zoo both at events and during the day.

• Assists with press releases, press conferences and media on grounds.


• Great communication and persuasive skills are necessary.• Media experience is preferred.• B.A. in communication/journalism, public relations or a related field is required.

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COMMUNICATIONS

EDUCATION EDUCATION

Director of Education and Interpretation Duties:• Helps generate the content for educational programs.• Supports staff, helps find resources and leads department improvements.• Helps plan, design and evaluate the labels and interactives of exhibits.• Offers help and support to the Education Department’s staff.


• Great planning and budget skills are necessary.• Bachelor’s degree in education, science, museum studies or a related field is necessary, along with managerial experience.• Master’s degree in education or zoology is beneficial.

Education Animal Trainer Duties:• Responsible for training animals and training staff to work with the animals.


• Must be very comfortable while working with many different people and animals.• Experience in handling and training animals is necessary.• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biology or another related field is necessary.

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EDUCATION EDUCATION

Education Programs Coordinator Duties:• Coordinates the development of new educational opportunities both onsite and offsite.• Designs and delivers educational programs, while evaluating existing programs.


• Must be organized and be comfortable around different people and animals.• Bachelor’s degree in education or biological science is required.• Knowledge on various audiences and learning styles is necessary.• Master’s degree is beneficial.

Educator Duties:• Presents a variety of education programs both at the zoo and in schools, senior centers, festivals and other offsite areas.


• Must enjoy helping all age groups learn.• Must enjoy handling a variety of animals.• Excellent public speaking skills are necessary.• A degree in education and/or science is preferred.

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FACILITIES FACILITIES

Supervisor of Facilities and Grounds Duties:• Oversees the day-to-day operations of all buildings and grounds.• Sets schedules for maintenance workers and manages the grounds.• Ensures the facilities are clean, safe and working.• Ensures animal life support systems are safe and working


• Must be knowledgeable in several different building trades.• Should be well-versed in electrical and mechanical maintenance.• Biology or chemistry background is preferred.

Gardener Duties:• Maintains the beauty of the zoo’s gardens and grounds.• Plants and nurtures onsite botanicals.


• Must enjoy working outdoors.• Should have a “green thumb.”• Botanical knowledge and love for plants is necessary.

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FACILITIES FACILITIES

Life Support Technician Duties:• Maintains pumps and filters that supply water to animal exhibits.• Maintains the appropriate temperature, humidity and filtration systems for the zoo and its buildings.• Performs inspections and preventative or emergency maintenance for all life support equipment.


• Must have knowledge of hydraulic recirculation systems and biological, mechanical and chemical filtration systems.• Prior life support experience in a zoo is preferred.

Maintenance Worker Duties:• Ensures the cleanliness of the zoo and buildings.• Cleans facilities and repairs any electrical, mechanical, or plumbing issues within zoo grounds.


• Needs to be able to lift heavy loads and work outside in all types of weather.• Carpentry, electrical, plumbing and mechanical skills are necessary.

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FUNDRAISING AND DEVELOPMENT

Security Guard Duties:• Ensures the safety and security of the zoo and buildings.• Checks locks, enclosures and premises regularly.• Works many evenings and nights.


• Flexible work schedule is required.• Prior security work is preferred.

Director of Development Duties:• Raises money for the zoo.• Organizes fundraising events.• Provides overall leadership and management for fundraising.


• Use of marketing and sales techniques, as well as familiarity with non-profit management is necessary.• Must be knowledgeable about the zoo and its community.• Bachelor’s degree in business, finance, economics or related field is necessary.

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FACILITIES


Events Coordinator Duties:• Organizes and manages fundraising events.• Collectively coordinates with co-workers in the development process of events.


• Must have good communication, organization and teamwork skills.• Prior experience with event management is required.• A degree in marketing, public relations, hospitality or a related field is a plus.

Grant Writer Duties:• Researches potential grants that may benefit the zoo.• Meets with funders and funding agencies to prepare grants.• Writes grant proposals to corporations, foundations and government departments.


• Professional writing and organization skills are necessary.• A bachelor’s degree and writing experience is recommended.


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GUEST SERVICE GUEST SERVICE

Director of Guest Services Duties:• Creates events to enhance the experience of zoo members and guests.• Oversees database management for the Zoo Society.

• Organizes and manages special events for members.


• Must enjoy working with other people.• Computer competency and database literacy is essential.• Should have a bachelor’s degree and years of customer service experience.

Food Service Manager Duties:• Manages the restaurants and oversees the staff.• Manages catering and special events at the zoo.• Ensure food supplies are stocked while cleanliness and safety is maintained in the restaurant


• Must like cooking, managing people and working in customer service.

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GUEST SERVICE GUEST SERVICE

Membership Coordinator Duties:• Meets and greets members.• Sells and renews memberships for the zoo.

• Supervises the admissions staff.


• Must be computer literate and savvy with money.• Excellent customer service skills is required.

Guest Service Host Duties:• Could work in several areas such as admissions, food services, and gift shop.• Makes sure guests are satisfied.


• Must work well with public and other staff.• Must be organized, punctual and able to multi-task.• Customer service experience is preferred.

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GUEST SERVICE

ZooShop Manager Duties:• Greets visitors.• Stocks merchandise and tracks sales.• Cleans store and straightens merchandise.


• Must like working with diverse groups of people.• Bachelor’s degree, good customer services skills and experience in retail is necessary.

How can I get involved?

There are two ways to get involved in helping the Zoo and learning more about the jobs at the Zoo.

You can spend some of your summer helping visitors learn about animals and the environment as a ZooTeen. The ZooTeens program gives young adults ages 13-18 an opportunity to explore their interests in ecology and conservation. The unique training ZooTeens receive engages them not only in the sciences, but also provides multiple activities that can foster self-esteem, encourage positive social interactions and help develop specific zoo-related interests.

OR ...

You can work with other people like you for a worthwhile conservation cause as a general volunteer. The zoo needs a lot of help from people like you who have some extra spare time. Whether you need volunteer hours for graduation or just want to be more involved with the zoo community, this may be for you. While general volunteering does not involve the handling of exhibit or educational animals, we still need your help in maintaining and creating an environment that welcomes our visitors and enhances their zoological experience.

To learn about all the opportunities for teens at the Seneca Park Zoo, go to our Web site: www.senecaparkzoo.org/teen-programs.aspx

WHERE DO I GO FROM HERE?

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For information about how to get the education and experience you needfor a career at a zoo, check out the following resources:

Association of Zoos and Aquariums

www.aza.org

Association of Fundraising Professionalswww.afpnet.org

American Association of Zoo Keeperswww.aazk.org

Animal Behavior Management Alliancewww.theabma.org

Antioch University – Conservation psychology and conservation biology www.antiochne.edu

Canisius College – Animal behavior/zoos www.canisius.edu

Cornell Veterinary Medicine Collegewww.vet.cornell.edu/

Santa Fe College’s Teaching Zoo – Zoology Degreewww.sfcollege.edu

America’s Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College – Animal Science Degreewww.moorparkcollege.edu

International Zoo Educators Associationhttp://www.izea.net/

Niagara County Community College – Animal Management Associate’s Degreewww.niagaracc.suny.edu

Jefferson Community College – Animal Management Associate’s Degreewww.sunyjefferson.edu

Rochester Institute of Technology – Zoology Internshiphttp://www.rit.edu/cos/biology/ZooInternship.html

AAB Pre-vet Summer Intern Fellowship at Seneca Park Zoowww.senecaparkzoo.org

Medaille College – Veterinary Technology Degreewww.medaille.edu/veterinary-technolgy

WHERE DO I GO FROM HERE?

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Copyright 2014 | Seneca Park Zoowww.senecaparkzoo.org

Photos by Vasiliy Baziuk, Pam Cowan, Janet Dray, Gary Eisenhart, Jeff Gerew, Travis Geske, Marie Kraus, Kelli O’Brien, Hugh Scolton, Brian Sheets, Meredith Wesson-Roth and Jewels White.

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A Guide to Careers at t od3sknjee09wa7y.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Career_… · Careers at t he Zo. o WORKING ON THE . WILDSIDE. Dear Student, ... “How do I become