We have a fantastic opportunity for a motivated person to join our dedicated NZ Fauna and Domestic animal team on a three month fixed-term basis to help us during our busy summer season. This position will involve caring for our rare and heritage animal breeds in the Farmyard, which is a much-loved part of the visitor experience. A large part of the position involves engaging with members of the public to deliver key advocacy messages and help inspire a love for animals.
We are seeking a highly driven, energetic person with a passion for animal care and public education seeking a fun, varied, physical job over the summer months.
The ideal applicant will possess the following skills and attributes:
- Previous animal husbandry experience, particularly with domestic hoofstock and poultry
- Responsible mature attitude and team player
- Superb communication and customer service skills.
- Knowledge and experience in pest control/trapping is highly desirable
- High level of physical fitness with good practical skills
- Interest in conservation and caring for NZ’s native and domestic fauna
DUTIES WILL INCLUDE
- Providing a high standard of daily care and welfare to a variety of domestic animals, including administering medications
- Daily behavioural observations, health checks and record keeping
- Implementing behavioural enrichment programmes
- Conducting fun and informative presentations to educate and engage visitors in experiences with our animals
- Pest control
- Supervising Farmyard volunteers
- Maintenance of enclosures and surrounding habitats
As animals require care seven days a week, the position will be based on a roster system including weekends and public holidays. The successful applicant would be expected to work over the Christmas and New Year period. The working week for the position is yet to be determined and will involve working full time, i.e. 80 hours each fortnight which will include some weekend work. Hours are 8:30am to 5:00pm. Hourly pay will be in accordance with skills and experience.