Hard Skills

• Animal husbandry
• Animal behavior observation
• Habitat maintenance
• Species-specific care
• Feeding and nutrition management
• Enclosure cleaning and sanitation
• Behavioral enrichment design
• Animal restraint and handling
• Health monitoring and reporting
• Recordkeeping and documentation

Technical Proficiencies

• ZIMS (Zoological Information Management System)
• Animal record management systems
• Microsoft Excel (feeding logs, health records)
• Microsoft Word (care reports, protocols)
• Digital scheduling tools
• Radio communication equipment
• Basic veterinary equipment use
• Environmental monitoring tools

Soft Skills

• Attention to detail
• Team collaboration
• Communication with veterinarians and staff
• Public speaking and guest interaction
• Time management
• Problem solving
• Situational awareness
• Adaptability in changing conditions
• Customer service orientation
• Reliability and dependability

Industry Knowledge & Focus Areas

• AZA standards and guidelines
• Animal welfare and ethics
• Endangered species care
• Conservation education
• Behavioral conditioning
• Quarantine procedures
• Biosecurity protocols
• Safety and emergency procedures

Industry Certifications & Training

• First aid and CPR certification
• Animal handling and restraint training
• Occupational health and safety training
• Wildlife or zoology coursework
• USDA and local regulatory compliance knowledge

Action Verbs

• Cared for
• Monitored
• Maintained
• Implemented
• Coordinated
• Educated
• Trained
• Observed
• Documented
• Ensured
• Improved
• Assisted