This is supervisory animal caretaker work in a major geographic zone of the Metropolitan Zoo.

Employees in this class are responsible for the supervision of animal care in a major animal zone, combining a variety of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians. Duties involve custodial responsibility and performance of the more technical aspects associated with feeding and health care of captive wildlife. Supervision is exercised over subordinate animal custodial employees engaged in routine and specialized tasks. Supervision is received from a professional superior who develops and assigns work projects, and reviews work through personal conferences and observations for achievement of desired results.

ILLUSTRATIVE TASKS

Plans, assigns and supervises the work of subordinate animal custodial employees in the routine cleaning and care of animals and exhibit areas; conducts inspections of the geographic area of responsibility to assure that health and safety conditions for animals are maintained; assures that all special equipment is in working order.

Assists in the coordination of special project work scheduled to be performed in the incumbent's geographic area, such as research and educational projects; carries out instructions of administrative and professional employees pertaining to or involving animals in the incumbent's area of assigned responsibility.

Supervises and participates in the rendering of medical care as directed by a professional veterinary superior; assists in the performance of specialized animal care, including baby and immature animal care.

Inspects prepared animal food for correct portions and proper balance of ingredients and additives.

Assists in the planning and preparation of the budget for the geographic area of responsibility; prepares requisitions for equipment, materials and supplies.

Makes recommendations regarding hiring, discipline and promotion of subordinates; schedules daily work routine of subordinate animal care employees; authorizes leave and overtime; evaluates and rates employee performance.

Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGES, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Considerable knowledge of the custodial care and general habits of typical animals.

Considerable knowledge of animal handling and training techniques.

Considerable knowledge of the food likes and dislikes of assigned animals.

Knowledge of supervisory principles and practices.

Some knowledge of budget preparation procedures.

Ability and willingness to work with wild, delicate and, occasionally, dangerous creatures.

Ability to perform custodial and minor veterinary care requirements of assigned creatures.

Ability to deal courteously and tactfully with the public.

Ability to plan, assign, coordinate and supervise the work of others in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, supervisors and professional and administrative department officials.

Ability to understand and follow written and verbal instructions.

NEW 10-80