CENTER FOR GREAT APES
Orangutan and Chimpanzee Caregiver
INTRODUCTION
The Center for Great Apes is seeking qualified individuals who are committed to quality and compassionate care for primates and who share the values of the Center in providing permanent lifelong care with dignity.
For 30 years, the Center's mission has been to provide a permanent sanctuary for orangutans and chimpanzees who have been rescued or retired from the entertainment industry, from the exotic pet trade, from research, or from other situations where great apes need rescue and a home in an accredited sanctuary.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
This position is responsible for performing various duties related to animal husbandry and maintaining habitats for great apes.
FLSA- Non-Exempt
KEY RESPONSIBILITES
· Clean and disinfect indoor and outdoor enclosures daily.
· Prepare and serve meals; administer medications as directed by vet staff
· Develop, construct, and prepare daily enrichment.
· Maintain work areas, common areas and equipment in clean and functional order.
· Safely transfer apes to and from various areas within the facility and unlock enclosures for regular cleaning and maintenance.
· Record and evaluate apes' physical, social, and psychological wellness and needs.
· Keep accurate and timely records.
· Abide by established safety protocols at all times.
· Participate in positive reinforcement training for health care.
· Establish and maintain professional working relations with co-workers in accordance with the Center for Great Apes Employee Handbook.
- Perform other duties or responsibilities as assigned.
REQUIREMENTS:
- Two years of experience in animal husbandry.
- Minimum of two years of college in a related subject.
- Have a philosophy of animal care and respect that blends with the Center's mission.
- Work a 40-hour workweek on an established schedule.
- Willing and able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Be able to climb ladders to clean habitats.
- Be able to work outdoors in inclement weather, including rain, heat, and humidity.
- Be able to lift 50 pounds and carry for a short distance.
- Ability to stand or sit for long periods of time.
- Ability to crouch, kneel, and reach overhead (frequently)
- Must provide a negative TB test, and negative drug screen result.
The Center for Great Apes is located in south central Florida in a rural area amidst orange groves and pastureland. Distance from nearby towns: Wauchula and Avon Park are 10-15 minutes away, Sebring is 20 minutes, Lake Wales is 30 minutes, Lakeland is 60 minutes, and Orlando and Tampa are 90 minutes north.
BENEFITS
Paid Time Off, health insurance, 401K Plan, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), work apparel provided.
HOW TO APPLY
Please send resume with application to loliver@centerforgreatapes.org
The Center’s employment application can be found on our website: https://centerforgreatapes.org/employment/
Center for Great Apes
P.O. Box 488
Wauchula, FL 33873
863-767-8903