Job: ANIMAL FOOD PREPARER- ZOO

Essential functions of this position include the preparation of food for the bird collection, chopping various fruits and vegetables, handling insects, fish and other food items as well as washing bird trays. Selected applicant will be required to maintain LIVE forage items such as mice, lizards and insects. Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment using kitchen utensils and appliances such as knives and blenders. Basic bird background is preferred. Selected applicant will be cross-trained in other job classifications such as Buildings and Grounds Attendant and/or Keeper and do other duties as assigned. Interested applicants must be available to work any of the seven days of the week, approximately 40 hours per week.

Under general supervision, prepares a wide variety of foods, including primary food mixes, live animal prey and completed diets as determined by the ZSSD Nutrition staff; assists in general storekeeping and warehouse activities; performs related work as required.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS:
An Animal Food Preparer performs general animal food preparation functions at either the Zoo or Wild Animal Park, but is also required to perform a variety of general warehousing and stores functions.

REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES:
Responsibilities of this position include the preparation of food and diets for the animal collections, including processing various fruits and vegetables, handling invertebrates, fish, meats and other food items; maintaining vertebrate and invertebrate prey cultures; performing routine maintenance and calibration of equipment and facilities, including washing and sanitizing containers, surfaces and equipment; ability to use kitchen utensils and appliances such as knives, food processors, blenders and grinders is necessary; ability to determine measurement (weight, volume) for diet preparation; keeps warehouse areas and shelves in clean and orderly condition; assists with physical inventories; moderate to heavy lifting including supplies and equipment; interacts with guests, as required, representing the mission and goals of the department and organization.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS
General knowledge:
- basic knowledge of animal nutrition and feeding
- safe food preparation and handling techniques
- food processing equipment maintenance
Skills to:
- competently perform the responsibilities outlined in the Representative Duties section
- properly maintain equipment and supplies
- perform special projects as assigned
- operate motorized equipment and vehicles
- take and follow work instructions
- effectively communicate
- perform general storekeeping duties

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:
Education, training and/or experience which would clearly demonstrate the knowledge and skills outlined above. Food safety training and certification is highly desired. Knowledge of safe driving practices and California motor vehicle laws. Must demonstrate ability to: make arithmetic calculations; weight and volume conversions; and keep detailed records.

WORKING CONDITIONS:
Position requires standing for long periods of time. Frequent requirements to move moderate to heavy (50 lbs) supplies and feed. Fine manipulation, grasping and hand controls are frequently required. Frequent exposure to varying environmental conditions indoors and outdoors.

ALL EMPLOYMENT IS CONTINGENT UPON PASSING A DRUG SCREEN
SOME EMPLOYM,ENT IS CONTINGENT UPON PASSING PRE-PLACEMENT TESTING