
Living Collections Animal Keeper – Part time
Museum of Science, Boston
Innovation and creativity come from the unique perspectives of a diverse staff. We value your perspective.
Who We Are
As science and technology increasingly shape our lives, the Museum of Science strives to equip and inspire everyone to use science for the global good while keeping up with the pace of change. Among the world’s largest science centers and New England’s most attended cultural institution, we engage nearly five million people a year – at Science Park and in museums around the world, in classrooms, and online.
The Museum’s singular location connecting Boston and Cambridge puts us at the junction of some of the world’s most influential academic institutions and industries, local and state government, schools, and the public. Trusted by each sector, we are ideally positioned to convene, inspire, and create meaningful experiences for all. Come join us on our mission to inspire a lifelong love of science in everyone and living our vision for a world where science belongs to each of us for the good of all of us.
Why We Need You
This part-time position (working every Friday & Saturday) is critical to maintain the care and upkeep for a diverse collection of animals living here at the Museum of Science.
What You’ll Accomplish
- Performs a full range of animal care duties, in a professional manner necessary to ensure the health and welfare of a diverse collection of mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, fish and invertebrates and to further ensure all animal husbandry conforms to Museum protocols, meets government regulations and the AZA accreditation standards.
- Performs routine cleaning and maintenance related to animal exhibits, public spaces and off exhibit spaces to ensure these are kept in a neat, well organized and in a safe manner.
- Actively work to enhance animal welfare through assessments, training, and enrichment projects to ensure world class animal care that meets or exceeds Museum protocols, USDA requirements and AZA standards.
- Actively engage visitors in life science/conservation subjects by the development and presentation of living collections programs and interpretations in support of the Museum’s mission and overall guest experience.
- Assists in monitoring animal use and animal spaces to ensure all activities are carried out in a safe manner and that we are consistently meeting the Museum standards, USDA policies, and AZA best practices.
- Provide routine care of live plants within animal enclosures and public spaces as needed in assigned work areas.
What We’re Looking For (Competencies)
- Looking for an individual with great observation skills to notice changes in animal behavior and body language that can lead to solutions to challenges the individual animal faces in a timely manner.
- Must be physically able to meet the needs of the job including but not limited to hand and eye coordination for preparing diets and handling medication, the ability to kneel, squat, and crawl trough enclosures when needed for cleaning and servicing, the ability to carry supplies and animals, climb up and down a ladder/stool, and work in warm humid environments,
- Have a comfort level and drive to create unique conservation themed programing for our guests. This includes assisting with formal programming on the Science Live Stage and informal encounters on the Museum floor utilizing our living collection.
- Should be able to work independently when needed but be an active member of our team. This includes giving and receiving constructive feedback, taking responsibility for actions and communicating during conservations and team meetings
- Basic understanding of animal husbandry and welfare needs with a desire and willingness to continually learn and grow through professional development.
How We Work-Our Values
Everyone: We are everyone’s museum. We pursue equity and celebrate every person for who they are. We foster an inclusive environment in which we value and respect diversity.
Service: We serve our colleagues and community. We hold ourselves accountable to be a trustworthy public resource, and to support a sustainable, just and evidence-based future.
Learning: We love learning. We are curious about the world and want to share our joy and wonder with others. We value open minds and recognize that everyone has more to explore, discover and create.
Connection: We find strength in connections. We collaborate across communities, organizations and disciplines to make science relevant and accessible to all.
Boldness: We dream big. We boldly push ourselves forward, pursuing new ideas and challenges. We experiment and learn from our failures as we seek to inspire purpose, spark imagination and encourage hope.
Salary Range
$17 - $21 USD
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