Come join us at the Reid Park Zoological Society!

Reid Park Zoological Society (RPZS) is seeking an Integrated Pest Management Specialist. The candidate must have a State of Arizona Certified Qualified Applicator license or the ability to receive the license within 3 months of hire. The ideal candidate would also have at least three years of pest management experience using a variety of techniques including chemical application, manual trapping, pest exclusion and habitat removal. Experience working in sensitive environments is a plus.

The Society is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to create inspiring memories for all by connecting people and animals to ensure the protection of wild animals and wild places. We provide educational and fun experiences for visitors of all ages. Reid Park Zoo is the largest attended cultural attraction in Southern Arizona, with approximately 500,000 visitors annually. Be a part of a vibrant, growing organization as Reid Park Zoo implements an exciting master plan that will be investing over $60M in new exhibits over the next ten years.

No phone calls or visits please. This position is open until filled. We are an Equal Opportunities Employer. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse staff by creating an inclusive environment.

Overview : The successful candidate will be hard-working, detail-oriented, and committed to improving animal well-being through pest management. The incumbent has responsibilities for the implementation of Reid Park Zoo’s (RPZ) integrated pest management program. This role is responsible for the following: Surveillance of all RPZ structures and grounds to detect and control a variety of vertebrate and invertebrate animal pests. To perform minor construction and maintenance of RPZS structures to exclude pests and to render the subject structure more pest-proof or less attractive as harborage for pests. To work in partnership with RPZS management, grounds, and maintenance staff of all situations involving physical modification or other work, which exceeds the technical capabilities of the pest management incumbent or staff. To work in partnership with animal care, animal well-being, and veterinary staff to identify, address, and maintain responsive and preventative integrated pest management programs while prioritizing keeping Zoo animal safety and well-being.

Reports To: Animal Behavior and Well-Being Program Leader

Essential Job Duties:

• To work with all departments of RPZ staff to control pest species
• To perform a variety of control actions utilizing chemical, mechanical, and environmental and biological controls to achieve an overall reduction in the level of target pests to an acceptable level
• To protect the collection animals, visitors and employees from contact with chemicals used in the course of pest control work
• Responsible for the strict observance of all safety regulations, environmental requirements and use standards
• Develop and implement strategies to preclude food sources and harborage for pests in collection, non-collection, and food service areas on grounds
• Act as on-grounds contact with City of Tucson and Pima County officials in mosquito deterrence and control, and for external consultants for advanced pest control problems
• Responsible for the safe storage, transport, use of pesticides and other toxic chemicals utilized in the performance of pest management function
• Maintain familiarity with all SDS protocols, application guidelines, and safety procedures and follows them at all times, especially as it refers to managing and applying pest control products
• Responsible for the retrieval and safe disposal of target pests by means which are legal and environmentally sound
• Responsible for following all safety procedures for occupational hazards involved and the safe work practices employed while in the proximity of potentially dangerous animals
• Responsible for the maintenance of all pest management work areas in a neat, safe, and orderly state, and safeguards all supplies, equipment and all personal protective equipment from loss, theft, harm or unauthorized use
• Maintain accurate records of all pesticide applications, pest management activities, quantity and method of application of chemical pesticides used to achieve control of pests present.
• Monitors and evaluates effectiveness of RPZ’s pest management program
• Participates with the Animal Behavior and Well-being Program Leader in the decision-making process in all aspects of pest management initiatives
• Completes all training as required
• Variable shift work is possible
• Participates in emergency drills
• Provide excellent customer service as a component of all job duties.

Other Duties as Assigned

Required Qualifications, Skills and Abilities:

• Valid, unrestricted Driver’s license
• Successfully complete pre-employment drug test (non-THC)
• Successfully complete criminal history background check
• Pre-employment TB test (and annual renewals) or evidence of negative TB test result in the immediate past 12 months
• Obtains and maintains (company pays) all required job-related vaccinations
• High School diploma or equivalent (GED)
• State of Arizona Certified Qualified Applicator License within three (3) months of hire
• Completes all training as required
• Variable shift work is possible
• Participates in emergency drills
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Provide excellent customer service as a component of all job duties
• Comprehension and fluency in oral and written English language
• Regular physical attendance at work
• Must be able to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions
• Demonstrated critical analysis, customer service, problem-solving, conflict resolution, decision making, leadership, team building, time management, and motivational skills
• Demonstrated ability to tactfully handle stressful situations, negotiate and resolve conflicts, maintain confidentiality, and respect and observe organizational protocol
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with all levels of RPZS and coworkers, as well as diverse volunteers, guests, donors, community partners, vendors, and others
• Able to work a flexible work schedule and adjust as required. Weekend, special events, and some holiday work are required

Preferred Qualifications, Skills and Abilities:

• State of Arizona Certified Qualified Applicator License at hire
• Computer skills
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in emergency situations and to respond with the appropriate action
• Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, co-workers, visitors, and general public
• Three years of previous experience in performing pest control applications in a licensed capacity is preferred
• Experience with pest management in a sensitive environment such as a zoo, aquarium, hospital, school or food handling establishment

Physical Demands:

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Bend, stoop, kneel, reach.
• Stand for long periods.
• Ability to wear requisite Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) that may include rubber/latex gloves, masks, eye goggles, and airway protection

Please note that this document is not an exhaustive list. It is intended to give a reasonable idea of what might be required.

Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), it is the policy of Reid Park Zoological Society to provide reasonable accommodation when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with a disability, unless such accommodation would cause an undue hardship. The policy regarding requests for reasonable accommodation applies to all aspects of employment, including the application process. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact the Human Resources Dept.