Animal Caretaker II

Job Summary:  

The Animal Caretaker is responsible for the domesticated animals on the Children’s Farm at Ko’olau Ranch. As directed by the Manager, Land Operations, the Caretaker will perform all aspects of care for the Farm, including but not limited to feeding, watering, grooming and cleaning the animals, maintaining the Farm area in a clean and sanitary condition, coordinating veterinary treatments and other animal services as needed, and working with the Owners and/or their guests during visits to the Farm. 

Essential Duties & Responsibilities 

• Feeding, watering and general care of the animals (50%)
• Cleaning, organization and sanitation of the Farm area and facilities (30%)
• Facilitating Owner/guest visits to the Farm (10%)
• Coordinating veterinarian services and/or outside vendors (5%)
• Managing supply inventories and communicating purchase needs to Supervisor (5%)

Responsibilities & Duties

• Feeds and waters animals according to feeding instructions and established schedules
• Cleans and organizes animals living areas such as stables, pens, cages, and yards
• Cleans and disinfects animal equipment
• Observes animals to identify signs of injury, illness, or disease
• Provides general treatment for animals, contacts veterinarian for more advance treatment
• Grooms animals, which includes washing, brushing, trimming coats, cutting nails, and cleaning ears; coordinates 3rd-party grooming services (i.e. semiannual shearing, farrier services)
• Maintains records of information such as weight, physical condition, diet, feeding schedule, and medications given
• Provides enrichment to animals daily to maintain their health and well-being
• Unloads and stores feed and supplies
• Answers general questions about the animals such as behavior and habitat, facilitates Owner/guest visits to the Farm (i.e. teaching children proper handling techniques)
• Takes phone calls and schedules appointments
• Oversees the ordering of supplies needed for operation; makes recommendations to the Supervisor
• Builds and maintains positive working relationships with coworkers
• Provides first aid to wounded animals
• Administers vaccinations and medications to animals, as directed by the Veterinarian
• Physical demands – Work in all weather elements, lift 50 lbs and heavier items with assistance. Do repetitive physical work such as raking and shoveling, scrubbing, etc. Walk briskly or run if needed.
• Maintenance of grounds in and around zoo
• Assist with veterinary care, administering medication.
• Performs related duties as assigned

JOB SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with animals required
• Ability to work with animals and to remain calm in strenuous circumstances.
• Excellent problem-solving skills
• Ability to follow instructions.
• Excellent time management skills.
• Must be able to work independently, make common sense decisions in potentially critical situations.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORKING CONDITIONS

• Must be able to lift and carry 50 pounds at a time.
• Must be able to work outdoors, with frequent exposure to extreme hot temperatures, wet/rainy, windy conditions for one hour plus.
• Physical abilities include lifting/carrying up to 50 lbs. multiple times per shift, pushing, pulling, stooping/crouching, reaching/handling, balancing, sitting, standing, walking, climbing off and on equipment, squatting/kneeling, grasping.

COMPETENCIES

Communication
Communicates clearly and effectively in both verbal and written formats; shares relevant information in a timely and appropriate manner.

Integrity & Trustworthiness
Demonstrates honesty, accountability, and consistently acts in the best interest of the homeowner.

Teamwork
Works effectively both independently and collaboratively; contributes to a positive and cooperative team environment.

Critical Thinking
Assesses situations thoughtfully, anticipates needs, and resolves issues in an efficient and practical manner.

Attention to Detail
Maintains a high level of accuracy and thoroughness in all tasks and responsibilities.

Initiative & Proactiveness
Takes ownership of responsibilities, acts without prompting, and consistently exceeds expectations.

Adaptability
Remains flexible and composed in a fast-paced environment; adjusts effectively to changing priorities and demands.