This is specialized administrative work in the development and implementation of animal related programs for the Metropolitan Zoo.

Employees in this class are responsible for participating in the development and field implementation of animal management, propagation and conservation programs for a taxonomically assigned portion of the animal collection. Some employees in this class may be responsible for a public education program for the zoo. Duties involve the monitoring of program progress as it relates to assigned animal group. Supervision is exercised through subordinate supervisors over specialized employees who carry out programs as instructed. Supervision is received from a professional and administrative superior who assigns work and reviews through personal conferences and observations for achievement of desired results.

ILLUSTRATIVE TASKS

Participates in the development and implementation of various programs designed for a taxonomically similar portion of the animal collection, such as mammals, amphibians, birds, reptiles or invertebrates; monitors field implementation of animal management, propagation and conservation projects.

Assists professional superiors in research and development of specific animal diets, health programs, initial animal intake and quarantine procedures; researches and records specific animal habits for breeding and handling needs.

Assists in the development of and maintains recordkeeping procedures for animal inventory, genealogy, ISIS and other records; develops breeding files for use in animal propagation.

Monitors overall care of exhibits; assures proper use of chemicals in exhibit areas.

Conducts breeding loan transactions; applies for breeding permits; maintains records of breeding permits, studbook registration and breeding loan agreements; conducts commercial transactions of animals, such as purchases, sales, trades and exchanges.

Develops a variety of materials for conducting an extensive public education program for the zoo and outside facilities; plans, edits and supervises publication of educational materials, such as pamphlets and booklets; prepares slides, posters and other illustrative devices for specialized educational programs.

Assists in planning and preparation of the budget as it relates to assigned duties.

Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGES, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Thorough knowledge of the custodial care and general habits of assigned animal groups, such as mammals, amphibians, birds, reptiles or invertebrates.

Thorough knowledge of research procedures for the development of programs for the care and breeding of assigned animals.

Thorough knowledge of procedures and practices relating to animal management, propagation and conservation projects for a taxonomically similar group of animals.

Thorough knowledge of journalistic principles and practices in the development of a specialized public education program, including planning, composing, editing and publication of educational material.Considerable knowledge of chemicals and their use in animal exhibit areas.

Knowledge of budget preparation procedures.

Knowledge of supervisory principles and practices.

Ability to apply knowledge of animal management, propagation and conservation procedures to develop a comprehensive program for a taxonomically similar group of animals.

Ability to maintain record systems for animal inventory, genealogy, ISIS, studbook registration and breeding loan agreements.

Ability to plan, compose, and edit informational and educational material for specialized programs.

Ability to plan, organize and conduct informational programs.

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 departmental officials.

NEW 10-80