FT Job: Nutrition Lab Technician, Henry Doorly Zoo
Summary:
Conservation Sciences includes the scientific disciplines of Comparative Nutrition, Reproductive Physiology, Rare and Endangered Plants, and Genetics. Success of each department is dependent on a dedicated staff of scientists and laboratory technicians that are committed to the mission of the Zoo and to scientific inquiries and activities that:
- Enhance biological knowledge of plants and animals to improve health, husbandry, and well-being in managed environments
- Reduce threats and challenges that face plants and animals in natural habitats and ecosystems around the world
- Help improve sustainability of in situ and ex situ populations of plants and animals in managed environments, natural habitats and ecosystems around the world
- Place Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium as a global leader of multi-disciplinary, science-based conservation
Duties and Responsibilities (include but not limited to):
- Candidate will be responsible for learning and conducting all laboratory analyses associated with related exotic animal nutrition research and diet management.
- Assist with sample collection during nutrition research projects.
- Maintain/update database of all quality control and research data, also incorporating data from third party labs.
- Assist Nutrition Manager with training interns/students/job shadows in lab safety and all laboratory procedures.
- Occasionally assist with preparation of specialized diets.
- Maintain inventories of lab and diet supplies.
- Maintain clean/uncluttered workspace to prevent cross-contamination and/or injury.
- Assist Nutrition Manager with diet changes and budget tracking as-needed.
- Occasionally assist Browse team with planting, watering, and harvesting browse for animal consumption.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:
- Detail-oriented, organized, strong communication skills (written and spoken), independently motivated.
- Must have a flexible schedule and willing to work weekends or holidays if necessary, although a standard schedule will be typical.
- Must be able to work in a team environment and willing to work alone in a laboratory setting.
- Basic computer skills are required, including applications in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access.
Education and Experience Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition, Animal Science, Biology or related field with an emphasis in nutrition preferred
- 1+ years in a laboratory setting
Working Conditions and Physical Effort:
- The employee is regularly required to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, and crouch.
- Work is performed in a laboratory and in the field
- Employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 50 lbs.
- Will be regularly exposed to water, cleaning and laboratory chemicals, loud noise, etc.
- Will be regularly exposed to a variety of produce, nuts, seafood, meat, and rodents
