The Smithsonian Institution is the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex, with 21 museums and the National Zoo. The mission of the National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI) is to save species by using cutting-edge science, sharing knowledge and providing inspirational experiences for our guests.

Duties

The Animal Keeper Helper position is located at the Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI), either at the National Zoological Park (NZP) in Washington, DC or at the Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) in Front Royal, VA. This position may rotate between Animal Programs and the Commissary as part of a training program or be reassigned to one of the three animal care departments depending on animal care requirements. 

Requirements

• Pass Pre-employment Background Investigation
• May need to complete a Probationary Period
• Maintain a Bank Account for Direct Deposit/Electronic Transfer
• Males born after 12/31/59 must be registered with Selective Service.

Qualifications

Qualification requirements must be met by the closing date of the job opportunity announcement.For information on the Job Qualification System for Trades and Labor Occupations, see OPM’s web site at https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/federal-wage-system-qualifications/ In order to be rated qualified, an applicant's overall experience and training must indicate possession of the minimum knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform the duties of this position such as, the skill and ability to carry out routine animal keeper duties; the ability to understand instructions given by higher level animal keeper personnel; the ability to carry out training and developmental assignments; the ability to catch, shift, restrain, and/or trailer animals without injuring the animals or endangering him/herself;  familiarity with a range of animal identification methods in order to identify individuals by natural and artificial markings such as color, tags, and brands in group(herd) settings; and the ability to operate motorized vehicles/scooters on NZCBI grounds. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

Education

This position does not have a positive education requirement.

Contacts

• Address SMITHSONIAN Office of Human Resources POB 37012, 600 Maryland Avenue, MRC 517 Suite 5060 Washington, District of Columbia 20013-7012 United States
• Name: Fallon Lawson
• Phone: 202-601-9494
• Email: [email protected]