Zoo Aide- Horticulture

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POSITION DESCRIPTION

Utah’s Hogle Zoo’s Volunteer Zoo Aide program is designed to give an individual the opportunity to learn about the animal world, its ecology and conservation, make new friends, develop new skills and contribute to the quality of life in our community. Our Zoo Aide Volunteer program offers opportunities to support husbandry activities in animal areas. You will not have physical contact with animals.

REPORTS TO

Volunteer Manager and Area Mentor

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Horticulture Zoo Aides will work with and support the SAB and facilities team with all aspects of plant care and upkeep. Duties include but are not limited to:

• Watering
• Fertilizing
• Applying soil amendments
• Polishing leaves
• Trimming dead foliage
• Planting new plants
• Monitoring for problems
• Turning soil

QUALIFICATIONS

Zoo Aides must be interested in and care about plants, nature, and conservation. They must have the ability to closely follow instructions and be physically capable of performing strenuous work. Because of the nature of working close to a variety of animals, Zoo Aides need to demonstrate maturity, self-motivation, and an ability to follow direction.

• Previous experience, knowledge, or training in horticulture practices is preferred, but not required.
• Must be able to work safely around animals.
• Must be able to work with multiple zoo departments to provide care for the plants

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REQUIREMENTS

• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Must provide authorization of background check.
• Must attend mandatory trainings
• There is an annual volunteer fee of $20 (Note: financial assistance is available.)

SCHEDULE AND TIME COMMITMENT

Zoo Aides must commit to one four-hour shift a week on the same day. The shifts are from 8am-Noon. This commitment must be maintained for a minimum of 1 year.

PHYSICAL DEMAND AND SPECIAL WORKING CONDITIONS

This position requires long periods of standing and walking. This position requires exposure to the elements such as heat, cold, rain, and snow.

COMPENSATION

All volunteers at Utah’s Hogle Zoo are considered non-paid employees. Benefits include discounts on food and gifts and volunteer recognition events and parties.

THE VOLUNTEER DEPARTMENT WILL:

• Maintain records for active volunteers.
• Ensure adequate training and supervision is provided.
• Issue volunteers a uniform and name tag.
• Provide ongoing support and assistance with volunteer/staff relationships.
• Administer volunteer benefits.
• Provide a written reference which will include hours of service, tenure, and job description when requested.

TO APPLY

Please submit an application at: https://www.hoglezoo.org/jobs_volunteers/volunteers/zoo_aides/

Utah’s Hogle Zoo is committed to providing a diverse and inclusive volunteer program representative of a variety of backgrounds, age groups, perspectives, experiences, abilities, and strengths.