Commissary/Quarantine Keeper

Audubon Institute - New Orleans, LA

Full-time - Entry Level

New Orleans, LA

Performing Arts, Spectator Sports, and Related Industries

About the position

The Commissary/Quarantine Keeper at the Freeport-McMoRan Audubon Species Survival Center is responsible for managing the commissary operations, including preparing daily diets for animals, inventory management, and maintaining cleanliness and organization of the commissary. This role also involves assisting with the care of quarantine animals and hoofstock, ensuring high standards of animal husbandry and training. The position requires a proactive individual who can work independently and collaboratively within a team, adapting to the needs of the animals and facility.

Responsibilities

• Making daily collection of animal diets for birds and hoofstock
• Inventory of feed and planning for future needs
• Conducting grocery store runs and ordering from local feed store
• Managing a purchasing limit of over $10,000 monthly, including keeping accurate and organized records
• Cleaning and organizing the commissary and hay barn to AZA standards
• Meeting with curators, distributors, and feed company representatives as needed
• Providing daily husbandry of quarantine or hoofstock as assigned
• Cleaning and maintaining enclosures
• Preparing and administering enrichment items and participating in training programs
• Assisting in the hand-rearing of animals if needed
• Identifying and performing routine maintenance
• Conducting various projects simultaneously
• Performing routine grounds and landscaping tasks
• Maintaining records using ZIMS record software and conducting behavioral observations
• Assisting in the training and supervision of other keepers, interns, and volunteers
• Assisting veterinary and supervisory staff in treating animals as assigned
• Preparing and following prescribed diets and feeding procedures
• Performing physical tasks outdoors in extreme weather conditions
• Following safety and security protocols
• Working independently and as part of a team
• Adjusting to work around large, small, aggressive, and flighty species
• Using power tools and equipment as needed
• Maintaining high standards of personal appearance and grooming

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a science or leadership related field
• 2 years of experience in commissary, animal husbandry, kitchen prep, or administrative roles
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull 50 lbs, with the ability to lift up to 70 lbs and team lift 100 lbs
• Good communication skills, both oral and written
• Proficient in basic computer processing
• Ability to anticipate, identify, prevent, and solve problems
• Current tetanus shot, proof of a negative TB test (within 6 months), and proof of COVID vaccine prior to starting
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation

Nice-to-haves

• Prior experience with animal training
• Experience with Species360 ZIMS software
• Experience in organization in the workplace

Benefits

• Full-time position
• Health benefits
• Paid time off
• Opportunities for professional development