Animal Care Assistant

PRIMARY OBJECTIVES
This position provides an opportunity to learn about our live animal collection and animal handling (especially with reptiles & amphibians) In this position volunteers will have the opportunity to lead interpretive animal encounters at Fernbank Museum and assist with animal care responsibilities such as enclosure/exhibit propping and feeding our live animals. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Shadow/observe animal programs.
• Read materials related to the animal collection
• Assist animal care staff with regular animal care tasks, including but not exclusively: enclosure and tank maintenance, water changes, feedings, record maintenance and feeder insect maintenance. 
• Work hands-on with reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates; handle live animals during public interactions and programs.   
• Lead/Present Live Animal Encounters for Museum guests.

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPECTATIONS

• Background and/or strong interest in biology, education (formal or informal) or animal care
• Comfort/interest working hands-on with reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates (including snakes, spiders and frogs)
• Strong interest in working directly with museum guests and school groups (all ages)
• Good interpersonal skills and experience working with the public
• Willingness to learn about the program and study independently if necessary
• Compliance with Museum policies and procedures
• Must be able to work outdoors and have physical skills necessary to perform animal care activities (involves some lifting, bending, working with tools, etc.)