ANIMAL CARE DIVE VOLUNTEER
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DEPARTMENT
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Animal Care
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LOCATION
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Aquariums, Farm Pond, Penguin Pools, Polar Bear Pool, and Sea Lion Pool
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REPORTS TO
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Dive Safety Officer
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PURPOSE:
The purpose of the Dive Volunteer Program is to support the Zoo & Aquarium’s animals, employees, and mission. Under the direct supervision of the Dive Safety Officer and Animal Care Staff, a volunteer diver performs routine assignments involving the maintenance and care of Zoo & Aquarium habitats.
Multiple openings are available. Applications are being accepted for all shifts, but the greatest need is Monday-Friday. Priority will be given to applicants with weekday/open availability.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
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Duties
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Percentage
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Cleaning and general upkeep of animal habitats and surrounding areas, including but not limited to:
- Cleaning and scrubbing pools.
- Collecting discarded animal enrichment items.
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80%
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Adhering to all policies and safety regulations as stated in the Dive Safety Manual, as well as any additional procedures for the designated animal area.
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10%
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Accurately maintaining dive plans and logs, as well as any additional paperwork.
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10%
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*This position may at times be requested to perform other duties or special projects as assigned, which are in the best interest of the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium.
*All volunteers must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily and, upon request, reasonable accommodations will be evaluated to enable volunteers with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their position, absent undue hardship.
LENGTH OF APPOINTMENT:
This position must complete a minimum of 2 dives per month for a period of twelve months, totaling a minimum of 24 dives per year. After twelve months, the position may be reappointed for another twelve months at the discretion of the Dive Safety Officer.
TIME COMMITMENT:
Shifts occur daily per the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium’s diving schedule. Shifts may vary seasonally and based on team needs. This volunteer position must complete a minimum of 2 shifts per month during their appointment.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Must have and maintain an Open Water Certification from an internationally recognized organization.
- Must have completed a minimum of 20 dives; must have completed 2 dives within the past 12 months of applying.
- Must have or be able to obtain First Aid, CPR, AED, and O2 Certifications.
- Must pass a Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium Dive Physical.
- Must pass a Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium Swim test and Open Water Skills Check.
- Must be willing to dive in extreme temperatures (45⁰ F), and in the presence of animals (fish, penguins).
- Must be willing to sign, acknowledge, and follow all necessary waivers and standard operating procedures.
- Must be willing to complete basic animal safety courses prior to commitment.
- Must be able to lift 50 pounds and have sufficient mobility to ensure a safe work environment.
- Must pass a background screening.
- Must have or be able to obtain negative TB test.
SUPPORT:
Training for this position will be provided. In addition, the Dive Safety Officer will be available for questions and assistance.
DRESS CODE:
Neutral colored pants or shorts, provided shirt, and comfortable shoes. Additionally, a properly fitted wetsuit and boots should be worn during dives.
