Zoo Nutritionist

Nature of Work

The fundamental reason this position exists is to maintain the nutritional health of Montgomery Zoo’s zoological collection through the preparation of foods and medications. The work responsibilities of this position are: preparing food for the zoological collection, cleaning and maintaining assigned areas, maintaining proper inventory levels of food items and supplies, maintaining records of animals’ diets, and performing basic bookkeeping functions. The Incumbent receives direct supervision from the Assistant Zoo Curator and indirect supervision is provided by the Zoo Curator, Conservation and Enrichment Manager, Zoo Director, Deputy Zoo Director, and the Veterinarian. 

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Animal Science, Nutrition, Zoology, Biology, or a related field, along with two (2) years of professional experience in food preparation for animals within a zoo or wildlife setting, including animal care and nutrition, ordering supplies, following proper food handling procedures, and ensuring dietary requirements are met.

NOTE:  Qualifying education, training, and experience that provide the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the job will be considered.

Special Requirements

Must be able to handle, capture, and kill live rodents as needed to feed reptiles and other zoo animals. Must be able to tolerate the odor of grains, feed, raw meats, and disinfectants as needed to prepare diets for the zoological collection. Must have and maintain a valid Alabama driver’s license and an insurable driving record to operate a city vehicle when picking up or transporting live animals or crates to and from the airport, or picking up food supplies. Must be able to work outside in all weather conditions. Must be willing to work holidays, weekends, and overtime as needed for scheduled times, special events, and emergencies. Candidates will be subject to a medical exam following a conditional job offer.  

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Incumbents must be able to stand for long periods to prepare diets for the zoological collection. Incumbents must be able to walk, bend, reach, kneel, stoop, and crouch to clean, prepare food, store supplies, and conduct inventory. Incumbents are also required to push, pull, lift, stack, and arrange heavy objects (kennels, grain/feed bags, hay bales, boxes of food, mops, buckets, etc.) weighing up to 75 pounds.