Reptile Supervisor - Abu Dhabi, , United Arab Emirates - Emirates Park Zoo
Description
The
Reptile Supervisor oversees the care, health, and welfare of reptiles,
amphibians, and fish, ensuring species -specific dietary, environmental, and
behavioural needs are met. This role involves maintaining appropriate and
secure enclosures, monitoring health and behaviour, and supporting veterinary
care. The supervisor manages breeding programs, designs enrichment activities,
and leads a team to uphold the highest standards of animal welfare and
conservation. They are also responsible for public engagement through educational
programs, maintaining detailed records, and adhering to safety protocols. The
supervisor plays a key role in promoting conservation initiatives and staying
updated on best practices for managing a diverse collection of reptiles,
amphibians, and aquatic species.<\/span>
<\/p>
<\/span>
<\/p>
Duties
& Responsibilities: <\/span><\/i><\/b><\/a>
<\/p><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Supervise the preparation and provision of
species -specific diets for reptiles, amphibians, and fish, and monitor feeding
behaviors.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Ensure enclosures and tanks are maintained to
meet the specific needs of each species, including temperature, humidity, water
quality, and lighting.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Monitor, document, and analyze behavior and
health for early detection of illness, stress, or other concerns.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Assist with veterinary care, including
administering medications, treatments, and supporting medical procedures.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Develop and implement enrichment programs to
stimulate natural behaviors for reptiles and amphibians.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Manage breeding programs, including incubation,
hatchling care, and juvenile development for reptiles, amphibians, and fish.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Oversee water quality management in aquariums to
ensure optimal living conditions for aquatic species.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Ensure the safe handling of reptiles,
amphibians, and fish during routine care, medical procedures, and transfers.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Respond to emergencies, such as escapes, tank
failures, or health crises, following established protocols.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Maintain comprehensive records of feeding,
health, enrichment, breeding, and environmental parameters for all species
under supervision.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Train, mentor, and supervise team members and
volunteers in the care of reptiles, amphibians, and fish.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Collaborate with zoology management and external
partners on conservation projects and initiatives.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Participate in workshops, conferences, and
continuing education to improve practices.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Support research, conservation efforts, and
awareness through public outreach and internal initiatives.<\/span>
<\/p>
<\/div><\/span>
Requirements<\/h3>
Skills:<\/span><\/b>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>In -depth knowledge of reptile, amphibian,
and fish species, including dietary needs, behaviour, and environmental requirements.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Strong understanding of water quality
management, including filtration, pH balance, and aquarium temperature
regulation.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Observational skills to identify signs of
stress, illness, or behavioural changes.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Expertise in designing and implementing
enrichment programs for reptiles and amphibians.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Familiarity with safety protocols for
handling venomous reptiles and other potentially dangerous species.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Excellent communication skills for public
education and team collaboration.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Strong organizational and leadership
skills to effectively manage a diverse team.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Physical stamina for demanding tasks,
including lifting heavy objects, cleaning enclosures, and working in varied
conditions.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Adaptability and problem -solving skills
for addressing environmental, behavioural, or health -related challenges.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Commitment to conservation and advancing
the care and welfare of reptiles, amphibians, and fish.<\/span> <\/span><\/span><\/b>
<\/p>
Qualifications / Experience:<\/span><\/b>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>High school
graduate; a degree or diploma in zoology, herpetology, wildlife management,
biology, or a related field is preferred.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Minimum 4 years
experience in handling and caring for reptiles, amphibians and fish in a zoo,
sanctuary, or wildlife park.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Minimum 2 years
experience in supervising teams and leading animal care programs.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Familiarity
with breeding programs and veterinary care procedures for reptiles, amphibians
and fish.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Ability to
perform physically demanding tasks and work in varied outdoor conditions.<\/span>
<\/p>
· <\/span><\/span><\/span>Strong
interpersonal and leadership skills to communicate effectively with staff,
visitors, and management.<\/span>
<\/p>
<\/div><\/span>