Animal Husbandry Specialist - Herpetology & Fish

The Herpetology and Fish Specialist serves as a member of the Animal Husbandry Team to provide the highest level of care and welfare for the animals under Colossal’s oversight.  As a member of the Small Animal Care Team, the Herpetology and Fish Specialist cares for a diverse collection of ectotherms including reptiles, amphibians, and fish.  This position reports to the Manager of Animal Husbandry and works closely with Colossal’s Head of Animal Husbandry.

**This position will be based out of Dallas, TX. Relocation assistance is available. 

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist veterinary and research staff with medical exams, procedures, and treatments.
• Develop and implement training and enrichment plans and schedules for Colossal species.
• Perform daily husbandry for a diverse collection of ectotherms including reptiles, amphibians, and fish.
• Maintain animal habitats and surrounding areas, husbandry equipment, and tools. 
• Closely monitor and document animal behavior, health and wellbeing, recording these in the record keeping system and reporting issues to leadership.
• Create habitats that promote successful breeding and optimal welfare for animals.  
• Stay up to date on industry best practices through research and networking with industry professionals. 
• Prepare diets for amphibians, reptiles, and fish.
• Assist in other areas of the small animal care team as needed including husbandry of small mammals and birds.

Required Skills and Abilities:

• Proven experience in the areas of amphibian, reptile, and fish husbandry and breeding.
• Ability to manage life support systems and set up terrarium habitats with little to no supervision.
• Strong abilities in the areas of safe animal handling and restraint for veterinary care.  
• Expertise in animal care and conservation.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Practiced interpersonal and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to thrive and work well with others in a team environment.
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong emotional intelligence and passion for building relationships across all levels of an organization.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to function well in a growth-oriented, nimble environment.
• Understanding of operant conditioning and the application of behavioral modification methods.
• Strong observational skills.

Education and Experience:

• AA/AS/BA/BS in Biological Sciences is preferred.
• 2+ years of experience in animal care.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to perform strenuous work and lift at least 50 pounds.
• Ability to sit, stand, bend and stoop.
• Ability to work both indoors and outdoors in a typical Florida climate and under field conditions (heat, humidity, plant allergens, insects, etc.).
• Ability to work weekends, holidays and evenings as needed.