Animal Care Specialist – summer & fall/winter positions

Location: Scales Nature Park

Duration: Varies with position, minimum 8 weeks with extension up to one year internship possible

Salary: Varies depending on the position and funding. At or slightly above minimum wage.

Duties will vary with the nature of each position, but will include:

• Perform initial assessment of injured reptiles, treat wounds, manage infections, etc.
• Provide care for injured reptiles needing prolonged treatment including but not limited to wound care, medication, water changes, clean enclosures, maintain filters, lights, timers, etc. as required
• Assist with the husbandry (and treatment as required) of captive reptiles and amphibians for conservation purposes, including feeding, enclosure cleaning, record keeping, etc.
• Participate in the captive incubation of the eggs of up to 5 at risk turtle species that have been collected in central Ontario. This includes weekly checks, egg candling, daily care of hatchlings, data recording, and processing hatchlings for release
• Collect samples, administer medications, perform daily checks as required
• Maintain accurate records of animal intake, care, disposition, etc. as required
• Supervise volunteers or other staff involved with reptile care, including headstarted individuals
• Assist with public education and community engagement activities as required
• Assist with the general operations and development of conservation facilities

Requirements:

• Strong organizational skills
• Animal care experience required
• Experience with treatment of injured animals is required
• Familiarity with Ontario reptiles an asset
• Attention to detail
• Flexibility regarding scheduling

Accommodations (shared) may be available on-site (quad or double bunk room). The ability to thrive as part of a close-knit team in challenging situations and a live/work environment is important.